As one with a big family, we often count on the buffet for large family gatherings. We simply don't have the space for a sit-down meal for all those loved ones. Yet, the pandemic has limited the number of guests we can safely have at once, and the desire to stretch out those good, intimate times we have with small groups have led me to the multi-course meal rather than the buffet.
What are the courses? How are the courses served?
Every small group of guests represent different interests when it comes to a good meal. My parents, for example, are fans of traditional food. So a multi-course meal for them may include appetizers such as nuts, cheese, crackers, and chips. The next course is made up of salads and breads. Then the main course--typically a meat and veggies, and after that dessert. There's no need to rush the courses since we like to tell stories, enjoy the surroundings, and make the best of these times with others particularly at a time when our social gatherings are less.
When my sons and their loved ones visit, I often try new international dishes and for friends, themed dinners are delicious. For example, tomorrow we'll gather with friends in their driveway for a visit. They are not comfortable sharing food or getting closer due to some health concerns they have. Instead, I'll bring a dinner for them--a healthy eggplant parmesan they can eat that night or refrigerate or freeze for a later time. I'll likely accompany the dish with pasta, salad, and a dessert. These dear friends have hosted us countless times, and it will be good to prepare a meal for them as well.
Intimate gatherings lend themselves to the multi-course dinner which is a time to savor new dishes and exchange good stories, wonderings, and conversation about current events. In some ways the pandemic limitations are creating an opportunity for more civil events rather than the rushed free-for-alls that made up many of days prior to the pandemic. That's one more promise in the problem of the pandemic--one more silver lining.