(NAPSA)—There are a host of easy entertaining solutions that can make throwing a party easier and more fun. Whether you focus on the mul- titude of food preparation short- cuts offered in food magazines and by experts, or select timesaving prepared foods from local grocery stores, you can look like a pro without the work. Try these tips: * Have your guests bring a dish to share, whether a dessert or a bottle of wine—it’s one less thing for you to fret about. * Get your guests involved in the entire cooking process. Since parties tend to gather in the kitchen, why not give people a fun job? Ask them to stir, baste, or even shake the martinis. * Build your menu around a whole roast or bird such as turkey or chicken that has a Pop Up disposable cooking thermometer in it. Large cuts of meat require little attention while cooking and the thermometer helps ensure that the meat is cooked to a safe temperature but Making these Easy Twice-Baked Potatoes a day before the party will give you more time with guests. 1 tablespoon dried parsley 1 tablespoonfinely diced onions 3 tablespoons pre-packaged real baconbits 1% cups packaged shredded cheese (use your favorite) % teaspoonsalt % teaspoon pepper % cup milk Pre-grated Parmesan cheese Easy Twice-Baked Potatoes Wash unpeeled potatoes and prick with a fork. Microwave according to your microwave directions until soft. Place butter in large bowl. In separate bowl, combine remaining ingredients except milk; set aside. Cut cooked potatoes in half. Scoop out center of the potato and add to butter. Place skins in greased shallow baking dish. Mix potatoes with the butter; add milk. Stir in cheese mixture. Spoon potato mixture into skins. Sprinkle with Parmesancheese. Warm in microwave or oven until cheese melts; broil 1 to 2 minutes for toasty tops. Can be made a day ahead. Serves 4 medium baking potatoes % cup butter, cubed , teaspoon garlic powder Visit www.volkenterprises.com for a list of meat and poultry brands that come with the thermometers. not overcooked. Even best-selling cookbook author and noted Life & Style expert Sandra Lee, of “Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade Cooking” on the Food Network, advocates choosing a roast or turkey with a Pop Up disposable cooking thermometer. “Tt is a safe, accurate and convenient way of ensuring that the roast is not under- or overcooked and makes cooking easy and delicious,” adds Sandra Lee. * Make side dishes ahead of time and reheat just before serving. That way, you spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. 6-8.
