There is nothing I like more than throwing a good party. I’ve always enjoyed entertaining but over the years, my idea of a good party has changed considerably.
In college, parties consisted of frozen appetizers and big pots of pasta with semi-homemade sauces, punches spiked with cheap vodka and decorations procured at Wal*Mart (on one particular shopping excursion my roommate and I were buying fake snow and a few other frivolous party necessities and our cashier candidly informed us that she couldn’t afford a Christmas present for her kid. That was awkward).
Now, my parties are slightly more elegant…or at least, my cooking skills have improved considerably and I can afford better vodka. The one thing that hasn’t changed is that when you want to feed a crowd, there is no better bargain than pasta.
Carbonara is a simple, but indulgent dish that you can make for any occasion — from Wednesday impromptu date night to a low key dinner party.
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion, minced
- 4 ounces uncooked center cut bacon, diced
- 1 pound fresh linguine
- 3 large egg yolks, at room temperature
- ½ cup heavy cream, at room temperature
- ¾ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, at room temperature
- Freshly ground black pepper
- In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onion and bacon and cook until the onions are translucent and the bacon is beginning to crisp. Remove from the heat and set aside.
- Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and reserve a small amount of the hot pasta water in a small bowl. Return pasta to the pot. Return the pot to the heat and add the reserved bacon and onion mixture. Stir over high heat until the pasta and bacon mixture are thoroughly blended.
- Whisk the egg yolks and heavy cream together in a small bowl. Add the combination to the pasta and toss. Add the parmesan and toss until the entire mixture is well-coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- TIP: If the pasta is dry, you can add a bit of the reserved cooking water. It has enough starch from the pasta to help bind your sauce. Serve immediately.
257 Comments
samantha c
January 22, 2012 at 4:46 pmshared on facebook
samantha c
January 22, 2012 at 4:40 pmfacebooked in good taste (samantha garcia)
samantha c
January 22, 2012 at 4:38 pmfriend with sams on facebook
samantha c
January 22, 2012 at 4:36 pmthe best party i been to was my sister Halloween party. Had had amazing drinks, apps and desserts that went with theme. PS LOVE your blog
Blond Duck
January 19, 2012 at 6:16 amHappy Thursday!
5 Star Foodie
January 17, 2012 at 11:26 amWow, look at all the comments you’ve got 🙂 The pasta looks really awesome!
Sara Haaf
January 16, 2012 at 7:10 pmBest party I have ever been to was a Halloween one by my aunt, she goes all out with decorations and food, she always makes a big cauldron of bouja.
bellini
January 16, 2012 at 7:16 amThe giveaway is closed Maris but somehow I had to comment anyway on this delicious pasta. It is good to know how to entertain on a budget. So often we go overboard and it is not necessarily all about the gourmet food but about the company.
Manda Valenti
January 13, 2012 at 12:12 pmMy favorite tip for entertaining on a budget is….COUPON. There are coupons out there for almost everything! 🙂
thanks!!
Manda
avalenti6936 at yahoo dot com
Gina
January 13, 2012 at 12:25 amWow, I came over here to see how you are doing and you are giving away a mixer, sweet. I’d say the best party for me was when I got so drunk I threw up on my brother-in-law’s shoes, probably wasn’t the best party for him! I love Sam’s I wish they had one closer to me. Hope you had a Happy New Years.
-Gina-
Sarah
January 10, 2012 at 10:58 amJust tweeted!!
Heather | Farmgirl Gourmet
January 10, 2012 at 10:35 amI tweeted. http://twitter.com/FarmgirlGourmet/statuses/156775770994393089
marcella
January 10, 2012 at 10:34 amLove the addition of eggs to this pasta dish!
Sara P.
January 10, 2012 at 10:34 amOne tip for entertaining on a budget (and going green!) is to purchase inexpensive dinnerware at IKEA, and then reuse for every party. If you entertain a lot, you will recover the cost of paper plates quite quickly. I have a set of 40 plain glass IKEA plates that get a ton of use. I think each one was 95 cents!
Heather | Farmgirl Gourmet
January 10, 2012 at 10:32 amLiked In Good Taste on FB (why did I not already? Hmm)
Heather | Farmgirl Gourmet
January 10, 2012 at 10:31 amLiked Sams Club on FB
Heather | Farmgirl Gourmet
January 10, 2012 at 10:30 amYOU ARE SOOOOOO GOOOOOD LOOOOKIN’! 🙂 My favorite party would have to be my 40th birthday. I had 35 of my closest friends, a table full of amazing food and it was just a blast. I will never forget it. This is an awesome giveaway Maris. Love it.
Barbara @ Barbara Bakes
January 10, 2012 at 8:49 amI tweeted your giveaway.
Barbara @ Barbara Bakes
January 10, 2012 at 8:44 amCarbonara is one of my favorite pastas. Perfect for a party. My favorite party was my daughter’s wedding. A perfect day.
The Teacher Cooks
January 10, 2012 at 8:09 amLove this dish and I hope that you are doing well!
Jamie
January 10, 2012 at 7:11 amWonderful dish, one we would eat any night of the week! And party? Party? We rarely go to parties, to tell the truth…. I have to say I love small intimate “parties” just with families or my Plate to Page girlfriends around the barbecue at one of their houses!
katelin
January 9, 2012 at 5:37 pmone tip i have for entertaining on a budget is that i like to reuse decorations & buy plates/cups in bulk so that they last for parties in the future. also, i like to buy ingredients in bulk as well that i know i’ll use a lot, definitely saves.
Chrissy
January 9, 2012 at 5:35 pmI tweeted this giveaway!
Chrissy
January 9, 2012 at 5:34 pmliked Sam’s club on FB
Chrissy
January 9, 2012 at 5:32 pmbahahah… how good looking you are? That was AWESOME. Well, obviously you are an angel. I’ve been to a few dazzling party, but I’d say the my latest birthday PJ party was one of the best yet with lots of tasty bites!
Logan
January 9, 2012 at 4:22 pmShopping at Costco for a large party really cuts down on cost.
sophia
January 9, 2012 at 3:43 pmI think one of the best parties I’ve been to is 2011 New Year’s Eve party…it was the first time I got a bit tipsy! hee hee.
Juliana
January 9, 2012 at 3:25 pmGreat pasta dish Maris…simple and so tasty. Like the light version 🙂
Hope you have a wonderful week ahead!
Erica
January 9, 2012 at 1:09 pmFor me, make ahead foods are key for a party! Trying to cook too much right before a party can be disastrous! That pasta sounds so yummy! And you are good looking 😉
Lisa
January 9, 2012 at 1:07 pmBest party – family gathering of 30ish people in our small 1000 sqft townhome. We had family stuffed into every corner! Although I spent most the time in the kitchen we had a GREAT time taking, laughing & cooking! The cook had WAY too much wine! But all were happy, full & joyful. Not an easy crowd to impress. But there were all very complimentary &even tried the new dishes we brought to the table. Good time.
Lisa
January 9, 2012 at 1:01 pm…and I LIKE Sam’s Club!
Lisa
January 9, 2012 at 1:00 pm…and I LIKE you on FB!
Lisa
January 9, 2012 at 12:57 pmI twittered about this giveaway!
Rachel W.
January 9, 2012 at 12:11 pm…and I tweeted!
Rachel W.
January 9, 2012 at 12:11 pmI’m a fan of In Good Taste on FB!
Rachel W.
January 9, 2012 at 12:08 pmMy favorite party was the bachelorette party you so graciously hosted (I know kissing up won’t give me any further chances at winning…so it’s the truth).
Virginia Meisner
January 9, 2012 at 11:54 amMy best entertaining tip – When putting food on a buffet. Put down one table cloth, turn bowls, and containers upside down. Place a second table cloth over the items. Now you have a table with differetn heigths which adds interest and makes more room.
Jessica / Green Skies and Sugar Trips
January 9, 2012 at 11:27 amI now follow you on FB!!
Jessica / Green Skies and Sugar Trips
January 9, 2012 at 11:26 amtweeted! 🙂 I’m @bellacake
Jessica / Green Skies and Sugar Trips
January 9, 2012 at 11:25 amEvery year we have an AWESOME halloween party. It is potluck and always amazing!!! Food drink, and a dressed up old Victorian house = perfection!
Rachel @ Not Rachael Ray
January 9, 2012 at 11:23 amTweeted! 🙂
Rachel @ Not Rachael Ray
January 9, 2012 at 11:22 amAnd I obviously like you on FB!
Rachel @ Not Rachael Ray
January 9, 2012 at 11:21 amI like Sam’s on FB.
Rachel @ Not Rachael Ray
January 9, 2012 at 11:20 amI’ll tell you how good looking you are—gorgeous! Now give me the mixer 😉
Pasta looks delicious!
Mary
January 9, 2012 at 9:28 amYour pasta looks wonderful. It is a wonderful way to feed a crowd and I’m sure all at your party enjoyed it. I hope you have a great day. Blessings…Mary
Sommer@ASpicyPerspective
January 9, 2012 at 8:42 amWhat a fantastic dish and giveaway!
Alexis @ There She Goesa
January 9, 2012 at 8:41 amlove this! yes, pasta is for a crowd, and this recipe looks bonkers!
Joanne
January 9, 2012 at 6:59 amI love this post! Entertaining does NOT have to be a huge expensive ordeal as long as you plan carefully! This carbonara sounds absolutely delicious…a definite crowd pleaser.
My favorite entertaining tip is to make simple cost-friendly appetizers, like hummus or other dips and bruschetta. You can make big batches for not much money!
Theresa J
January 9, 2012 at 3:34 amI like In Good Taste on facebook.
Theresa J
January 9, 2012 at 3:32 amhttp://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=147117348734533&id=100003177327043
Theresa J
January 9, 2012 at 3:31 amI tweeted.
https://twitter.com/#!/LOLILUVS1/status/156306765590437888
Theresa J
January 9, 2012 at 3:30 amI am a fan of Sams CLub on facebook.
Theresa J
January 9, 2012 at 3:26 amThe best party I went to was in LA when I was 18. It was a 4th of July party. The thing I remember the most was the flag cake. It was the first time I ever had it and it was yummy.
beti
January 8, 2012 at 10:58 pmpasta carbonara is one of my favorites, it is really simple and delicious, I really like your photos
Tina W
January 8, 2012 at 8:59 pmThe best party I ever went to–oddly, I only remember the hummus, the pavlova, and the conversation. I can’t remember the actual meal.
Tina W
January 8, 2012 at 8:56 pmI have liked you on fb.
Debbie
January 8, 2012 at 8:40 pmMy entertaining ace in the hole is to purchase a box of Puff Pastry sheets, cut them up, fill them with everything from cold cuts and cheese to brie and jam, even bits of candy bars. Glaze them, sugar them, dunk them in fondue. So much fun can be had with puff pastry.
ANG
January 8, 2012 at 8:38 pmand i tweeted!
ANG
January 8, 2012 at 8:38 pmfirst of all, this pasta looks/sounds incredible. making it again anytime soon?
best party ever? any of yours! 😉
sophie sanchez
January 8, 2012 at 7:42 pmI love my families tamale parties, everyone helps with the cooking.
Bhav
January 8, 2012 at 7:13 pmI like In Good Taste on FB as Jo Sue
Bhav
January 8, 2012 at 7:12 pmTweet:
https://twitter.com/#!/bvbabybv/status/156181345842900992
Bhav
January 8, 2012 at 7:11 pmI like Sam’s Club on FB as Jo Sue
Bhav
January 8, 2012 at 7:10 pmMy favorite tip is not to overcook. When there is too much food in the end, it is usually distributed which might or might not be consumed by the guests later or the hosts are forced to finish the food in the following days.
Also some things just cannot be reheated and hence will be wasted.
bvbabybv at gmail dot com
Kerstin
January 8, 2012 at 4:20 pmYum, looks great! Indian food is great for serving at a party if you’re on a budget because there are so many tasty vegetarian options!
Maureen
January 8, 2012 at 2:48 pmWell if you want to count the party as my wedding that was the best party I have ever been to. I had a great deal of fun and so did my husband. It was 13 yrs ago but still it ranks right up there.
Debbie C
January 8, 2012 at 2:05 pm@chrisdeglen tweeted:
twitter.com/#!/chrisdeglen/status/156104178505224192
chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com
Debbie C
January 8, 2012 at 2:04 pmI like you on Facebook. Debbie Christie
chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com
Debbie C
January 8, 2012 at 2:03 pmShared on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=194459337316809&id=100002582315135
chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com
Debbie C
January 8, 2012 at 2:02 pmI like Sam’s Clue on Facebook. Debbie Christie
chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com
Debbie C
January 8, 2012 at 2:01 pmThe best party I have gone to was, surprisingly, a party just for employees but offsite so we could relax and not worry about “the brass”. Everyone brought either their special snack foods or something to drink. That party fostered a lot of bonding among employees.
chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com
Emily
January 8, 2012 at 1:46 pmi shared the link on fb too 🙂
Emily
January 8, 2012 at 1:45 pmi follow in good taste on fb
Emily
January 8, 2012 at 1:44 pmthe best parties i’ve been to are the ones where good friends get together, eat, drink, laugh, and play games.
juniakk
January 8, 2012 at 12:55 pmwow, the linguine looks delicious! i love entertaining on a budget… but it never seems to happen for me.. lol. the kitchen mix is an awesome giveaway maris!
Geni
January 8, 2012 at 12:25 pmI am following in Good Taste on Facebook.
Christine M
January 8, 2012 at 12:23 pmShared on FB
https://www.facebook.com/BeeBubbaBella/posts/230233247052377
Christine M
January 8, 2012 at 12:22 pmtweeted https://twitter.com/#!/BeeBubbaBella/status/156078210600288256
Christine M
January 8, 2012 at 12:21 pmI am a fan of In Good Taste on FB
Christine J Mayfield
Christine M
January 8, 2012 at 12:19 pmI am a fan of Sams Club on FB
Christine J Mayfield
Christine M
January 8, 2012 at 12:16 pmThe best party I’ve ever been to was a dessert get together my friend hosted. I got there and then the doorbell rang she asked me to go get it bc it was Christmas carolers I joked I hope they don’t want a tip and standing outside was almost all the ladies from our church. They were throwing me a surprise baby shower. It was a great party full of food fun and fellowship.
Chris
January 8, 2012 at 12:13 pmI certainly could make good use of a mixer, considering the wicked voracity of my vernal ways… It would be running around the clock!
As for the ultimate party, it would have to be my family’s Christmas gatherings. Apart from the obvious alluring Christmas spirit and the soothing feeling of familial belonging, it is undoubtly quite a joy to witness dear old grandpa expressing his penchant for the whiskey…
Geni
January 8, 2012 at 12:06 pmYour pasta looks so wholesome and delicious! And on a budget too?! That’s fantastic. Entertaining on a budget can definitely be a challenge but Sam’s Club always is a first stop on my list to help with the savings. Great recipe! As a baker, I could always use a new mixer! 🙂 YAY!
Jen
January 8, 2012 at 11:30 amBest party ever was the one where I met my husband. It was a Be Your Own Superhero party and he was dressed as Bike Messenger Man, I was Captain Takeout.
Abbie Neary
January 8, 2012 at 11:17 amI like Sams on Facebook
Abbie Neary
January 8, 2012 at 11:15 amtweet
https://twitter.com/#!/mamaflutter/status/156061266773934080
Abbie Neary
January 8, 2012 at 11:13 amI like you on Facebook
Abbie Neary
January 8, 2012 at 11:09 amEntertaining on a budget : If I am making a yummy meal for a group of people sometimes I use a slow cooker. You can use cheaper cuts of meat because they get so tender. Same thing if you do up a good marinade and let the meat have a good soak before a BBQ.
EA-The Spicy RD
January 8, 2012 at 10:26 amLove this dish, especially that you created it on a budget (Something I need to get better at!) As for that Kitchen Aid mixer, you’re gorgeous Maris :-). Happy New Year!
Chrissy
January 8, 2012 at 9:39 amThis pasta looks delicious! I am so far behind on my blog-reading, but it looks like I missed some great recipes. 🙂 I’ll have to catch up!
My favorite parties are actually always family Christmas parties. The food and drinks are never better, and you can’t beat the decorations!
Sarah
January 8, 2012 at 9:29 amThat pasta looks incredible. I used to work at a private home in NYC in the kitchen — serving, cleaning up, etc. That woman threw the most incredible dinners. She was a real pro.
Yudith @ Blissfully Delicious
January 8, 2012 at 8:33 amI just tweeted your giveaway, but I don’t know how to add the link here 🙁
Yudith @ Blissfully Delicious
January 8, 2012 at 8:30 amI’m a fan on Facebook!
Yudith @ Blissfully Delicious
January 8, 2012 at 8:30 amI liked Sam’s on FB.
Mom
January 8, 2012 at 7:26 amWhat a fabulous dish! It is awesome how one can prepare such gourmet faire even on a limited budget. Best way to do it is of course shopping at Sam’s Club!
Nami | Just One Cookbook
January 8, 2012 at 12:33 amWhat a great looking carbonara! Maris, you look beautiful, but I will make a comment on the best party I’ve been to. A few years back I’ve been to Francisco Coppola’s Fall Harvest party in Napa. It was just amazing. The catering food was gorgeous (not typical so so catering) and of course we get to drink quite expensive wines as much as we want to (we have to pay for the event even though we have membership)… the atmosphere and decorations…and everything was just perfect. I will never forget such a fun night. Anyway, this is a great giveaway! I have a stand mixer already so please don’t include mine. 🙂
Eliza
January 8, 2012 at 12:06 amMy best tip for entertaining is to relax! Whenever I get stressed I want to buy stuff to make up for it. Totally unnecessary. But I do have some great wine glasses as a result,. 🙂
Great post, Maris, love it and can’t wait to try the recipe.
Schmidty
January 7, 2012 at 10:28 pmFB post http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=339722346057856&id=100001156831237
Schmidty
January 7, 2012 at 10:27 pmTweeted https://twitter.com/#!/rusthawk/status/155868108488310785
Schmidty
January 7, 2012 at 10:26 pmI am one of your current facebook followers (Rust Hawk).
Schmidty
January 7, 2012 at 10:25 pmI follow Sam’s on facebook (Rust Hawk).
Schmidty
January 7, 2012 at 10:24 pmMy best tip for entertaining on a budget is to get your guests involved …and have each one bring a dish. It’s also a great way to try something out of your regular food routine and acquire new recipes.
diane p
January 7, 2012 at 9:04 pmWhen I’m on a limited budget and entertaining for a small crowd, I usually end up using cheaper cuts of meat and braising the main entree, like braised shortribs, braised brisquet, pork shoulder or pork butt, or even chix thighs.
L.S.
January 7, 2012 at 8:52 pmI tweeted about this giveaway! https://twitter.com/#!/lilysheng/status/155843489261821952
L.S.
January 7, 2012 at 8:48 pmI became a fan of Sam’s Club on Facebook, gladly!
L.S.
January 7, 2012 at 8:48 pmI wanted a KitchenAid mixer for Xmas so bad but Santa didn’t grant my wish… 🙁 Really hoping I’ll win one! 🙂 And Thank you!
Tracy
January 7, 2012 at 8:22 pmTweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/saladgoddess/status/155836737262858240
Tracy
January 7, 2012 at 8:21 pmI don’t know about the best, but we used to throw an open house for the neighborhood that took a month of prep, including a week of 12-hour days making everything from scratch. It was exhausting, but great fun and well-appreciated.
Brielle brenner
January 7, 2012 at 8:12 pmMy favorite dinner party was probably the one my friend and her husband who is a chef did for me and my husband the day before our wedding . Chantrelle Risotto delish!! They are amazing . We had great wine great food and 15 people at their large table!
Shannon
January 7, 2012 at 6:32 pmThe best party I’ve ever been to was my best friend’s wedding reception. Nothing compares!
Lauren at Keep It Sweet
January 7, 2012 at 5:43 pmI’m a fan on facebook:-)
Lauren at Keep It Sweet
January 7, 2012 at 5:43 pmThat really is a great party meal… and no one would even know it was such good value!
NanaBread (Jeanne)
January 7, 2012 at 5:23 pmThe best party I’ve attended was the pre-game VIP party just prior to Super Bowl 38 in Houston back in 2004. I got to help judge the BBQ Brisket Cook-Off and it was awesome!
Ginger Fritz
January 7, 2012 at 5:01 pmThe best parties are when my friends and family are all around-and my kitchen duties are pretty complete. Then I can relax and enjoy their company!
Ginger Fritz
January 7, 2012 at 5:00 pmI shared on FB-but I don’t tweet or twitter!
Ginger Fritz
January 7, 2012 at 4:59 pmI just became a fan of In Good Taste on FB!
Ginger Fritz
January 7, 2012 at 4:57 pmI am a fan of Sam’s Club on FB
Nicole
January 7, 2012 at 4:53 pmTweeted about the giveaway.
Nicole
January 7, 2012 at 4:52 pmLiked Sam’s Club on FB!
Nicole
January 7, 2012 at 4:51 pmMm this looks great. Best party has to be last year’s Christmas party. Lots of great food and family. Entertaining on a budget: potlucks!
Autumn@Good Eats Girl
January 7, 2012 at 4:08 pmThe best party?!?! My wedding reception! It was such fun!
I also am excited to make this pasta! Sounds wonderful!
Sawsan@chef in disguise
January 7, 2012 at 2:45 pmI think you listed the main one..pasta and salad is a great way to feed a crowd on a budget..
I can’t wait to try your linguine carbonara
Ashley Hatten
January 7, 2012 at 2:34 pmhttps://www.facebook.com/ashleygatewood1985/posts/318763118146411
shared on facebook (Ashley Hatten)
ashleygatewood1(AT)gmail.com
thanks again
Ashley Hatten
January 7, 2012 at 2:34 pmhttps://twitter.com/#!/shuggysmommy/status/155748955643326465
ashleygatewood1(AT)gmail.com
Ashley Hatten
January 7, 2012 at 2:33 pmI am now a fan of In Good Taste on Facebook (Ashley Hatten)
ashleygatewood1(AT)gmail.com
Ashley Hatten
January 7, 2012 at 2:32 pmI am a fan of Sam’s Club on Facebook (Ashley Hatten)
ashleygatewood1(AT)gmail.com
Ashley Hatten
January 7, 2012 at 2:31 pmThis is my first time visiting your blog and I LOVE IT! Thank you so much for the giveaway I have been wanting one of these for a while now! my tip for entertaining on a budget is to use coupons and buy in bulk like from SAMS! thanks again!
ashleygatewood1(AT)gmail.com
Alison @ Ingredients, Inc.
January 7, 2012 at 2:13 pmI tweeted about the giveaway and liked on Facebook
Alison @ Ingredients, Inc.
January 7, 2012 at 2:11 pmThis recipe looks great and what a fabulous giveaway!
Elena
January 7, 2012 at 2:05 pmtweet: https://twitter.com/#!/ElenaIstomina/status/155741776437706754
Elena
January 7, 2012 at 2:04 pmshared on Facebook
Elena
January 7, 2012 at 2:03 pmI like In Good Taste on Facebook as Elena Istomina
Elena
January 7, 2012 at 2:02 pmI like Sam’s Club on Facebook as Elena Istomina
Elena
January 7, 2012 at 2:02 pmYou are beautiful! My tip for budget entertaining is to keep it simple, use affordable and wholesome ingredients.
Jessie C.
January 7, 2012 at 12:59 pmfan of In Good Taste on Facebook.
Jessie c.
Jessie C.
January 7, 2012 at 12:58 pmhttps://twitter.com/#!/tcarolinep/status/155724573625679873
Jessie C.
January 7, 2012 at 12:58 pmhttps://www.facebook.com/tcarolinep/posts/2535066692113
Jessie C.
January 7, 2012 at 12:57 pmfan of Sam’s Club on Facebook
Jessie c.
Jessie C.
January 7, 2012 at 12:57 pmMy favorite tip for entertaining on a budget is to have potluck party
Emily Stern
January 7, 2012 at 12:20 pmBest party? My best friend’s NYE party! Champagne, games, great food, and so much fun!
Kristen@Change of Pace
January 7, 2012 at 11:32 amBecame a fan of in good taste 🙂
Kristen@Change of Pace
January 7, 2012 at 11:31 amLiked sams on Facebook!
Janiece
January 7, 2012 at 11:15 ami’m fbook-less till the superbowl but i’m pretty sure i’m a fan. regardless i’m a fan in real life! so good to finally meet you over xmas!!!
Janiece
January 7, 2012 at 11:14 ammy favorite party was where everyone had to bring a dish and something to drink. everyone shared everything and it was so fun!
Marilyn
January 7, 2012 at 10:14 amMy favorite parties involve just hanging out with people at home (theirs or mine), low-key style. Exciting, huh? 🙂
Barbara | Creative Culinary
January 7, 2012 at 10:09 amWell first I must comment, without any prompting, on just how adorable you are. But because I don’t expect that pandering to really work…I’m trying to think of the best party I’ve had. I entertain SO much it’s hard to choose but I would have to say it was a fundraiser for Susan G Komen that I did two years ago. It was all appetizers and a cake that is still memorable. A local wine shop worked with me to provide some amazing selections for both the appetizers and desserts and I was able to raise money for a great organization while also enjoying good food and wine with friends. Yes, that was perfect!
Angie@Angie's Recipes
January 7, 2012 at 9:58 amWhat a wholesome and comforting pasta dish!
Drew H.
January 7, 2012 at 9:24 amYumm – perfect for a book club night! 🙂 Hmm, the best parties would have to be summer bbqs after a day at the beach…no stress and lots of great food and drinks with family and friends!
Liz
January 7, 2012 at 9:19 amWhat an incredible giveaway! And way to go on this challenge…your linguine looks amazing (who doesn’t love carbonara???). My favorite party of late was one we went to last night…at a fellow food blogger’s house. She made a HUGE array of fantastic dishes…I could have sampled all night long…a foodies’ dream meal!
Kelly
January 7, 2012 at 8:44 amYum – this looks delicious! I’d say the best party is any night out with Maris 🙂 I will definitely try this recipe for my next party.
Susan
January 7, 2012 at 8:03 amI just tweeted about your great giveaway – https://twitter.com/#!/savoringtime/status/155650515965976576
Susan
January 7, 2012 at 8:01 amI’ve already Liked you on Facebook.
Susan
January 7, 2012 at 7:59 amHi Maris! I love Sam’s Club and pasta is a great way to entertain on a budget. Their organic spring mix and great parm are often in my frig. In our group of friends, we always offer to bring an appetizer, salad or dessert to friend’s homes. There have been so many wonderful parties over the years but the most fun include a little dancing 🙂 I’ve liked Sam’s Club on Facebook.
Lisa @ Tarte du Jour
January 7, 2012 at 7:31 amThe best parties are usually on a budget because you are forced to be creative! Good for you… the pasta sounds heavenly! I don’t need a mixer , I just got a new one for Christmas… but what a great give-a-way!
Lorraine @ Not Quite Nigella
January 7, 2012 at 5:03 amWell done Maris! The dish looks so appetising and you cannot tell that it was done on a budget! 🙂
Lana
January 7, 2012 at 12:16 amI tweeted about the giveaway as @Bibberche.
Lana
January 7, 2012 at 12:16 amThe best party I’ve ever been to was my sister’s 40th surprise birthday. People still talk about it with delight:)
Nathalie
January 6, 2012 at 11:45 pmI also tweeted (@NatchB) 🙂
Nathalie
January 6, 2012 at 11:43 pmFound my way here from the actor’s diet facebook. Not sure about the best party I’ve ever been to, but the new years party I went to this year was pretty great – it was in a lovely Brooklyn apartment, catered by the korilla bbq truck (parked right outside), and we were served whoopie pies after our champagne toast at midnight!
Sustahl
January 6, 2012 at 11:06 pmI tweeted https://twitter.com/#!/rsmstahley/status/155515520215552001
Sustahl
January 6, 2012 at 11:04 pmI follow Sam’s Club on twitter @rsmstahley
Sustahl
January 6, 2012 at 11:05 pmI really can’t think about tweeting when I am trying to say that I follow Samsclub on Facebook. Sorry.
Sustahl
January 6, 2012 at 11:03 pmMy tip for entertaining on a budget is plan your menu ahead of time and try to get some good sales. Also use coupons for what you can. It all adds up to savings!
Carolyn G
January 6, 2012 at 10:37 pmfollow you on FB; carolyn gonzalez
Carolyn G
January 6, 2012 at 10:35 pmfollow sams on fb: carolyn gonzalez
Carolyn G
January 6, 2012 at 10:32 pmI went to an ALice in Wonderland party once. We thought it was just a tea party but it ended up being a mad hatter tea party and it was so much fun. Everyone was dressed up and the food consisted of high tea appetizers and scones and then there was a buffet with ALice themed food. It was the best!
Haley Grossman
January 6, 2012 at 10:28 pmI love to keep it simple and casual while entertaining on a budget. Like w/ your pasta, you don’t have to feed everyone NY strip steaks and expensive alcohol….you can make something simple and delicious for a lot less time and money.
hgrossman at cableone dot net
Kay
January 6, 2012 at 9:41 pmI tweeted the giveaway! @kay819
Cheryl S.
January 6, 2012 at 9:40 pmI tweeted about this giveaway!
Cheryl S.
January 6, 2012 at 9:38 pmI “like” Sam’s Club on Facebook, too!
Kay
January 6, 2012 at 9:38 pmGreat recipe! I like ones like this for dinner parties where the food is not complicated but comforting and a crowd-pleaser!
Cheryl S.
January 6, 2012 at 9:37 pmI’m now following In Good Taste on Facebook!
Cheryl S.
January 6, 2012 at 9:32 pmMaris, you are adorable and I love this blog. Thank you to Sam’s Club for this generous prize!
kristin bardwell
January 6, 2012 at 9:10 pmI shared on my fb wall!!
kristin bardwell
January 6, 2012 at 9:08 pmTweeted that I want to win!!
@corpusdlc
kristin bardwell
January 6, 2012 at 9:03 pmFan on fb of in good taste
Sarah Cook
January 6, 2012 at 9:02 pmI “liked” Sam’s Club! (I really do like them too!)
kristin bardwell
January 6, 2012 at 8:59 pmSams facebook fan!!
kristin b
January 6, 2012 at 8:57 pmI’m a single mom so no parties for me except kids ones 🙁 I do gotta say the best parties are good old fashioned in the home parties. I don’t get spending 700 bucks on a 3rd bday party out at a commercial place!!
Sarah Cook
January 6, 2012 at 8:44 pmThe best party I was a part of was a progressive dinner party. We started at the house where the parents would be leaving their kids and went around enjoying everyone’s Christmas decorations and yummy food!
Becca from It's Yummilicious
January 6, 2012 at 8:44 pmI shared the giveaway on my Facebook wall
Becca from It's Yummilicious
January 6, 2012 at 8:44 pmI’m a Facebook fan of your page!
Becca from It's Yummilicious
January 6, 2012 at 8:43 pmI Tweeted about the giveaway via ItsYummilicious on 1/6/12
Becca from It's Yummilicious
January 6, 2012 at 8:43 pmI am definitely a fan of Sams Club on Facebook…. Twitter, too!
Becca from It's Yummilicious
January 6, 2012 at 8:42 pmI’m a horrible hostess, but a wonderful cook…. and I’ve even more wonderful with a beautiful new professional stand mixer. Pretty please and thank you!
Marnely Rodriguez
January 6, 2012 at 8:38 pmI shared on FB
Marnely Rodriguez
January 6, 2012 at 8:36 pmI tweeted! http://twitter.com/#!/nella22/statuses/155477902245367808
Marnely Rodriguez
January 6, 2012 at 8:36 pmI am a fan of you on FB
Marnely Rodriguez
January 6, 2012 at 8:35 pmI am a fan of Sam’s Club on FB
Marnely Rodriguez
January 6, 2012 at 8:35 pmCocktail making on a budget? Make regular hard liquors look sophisticated by using local, seasonal fruits infused into them and serving with ice and tonic water! Cheap and easy!
Kelly Albright
January 6, 2012 at 8:18 pmI’m following you on Facebook. 🙂
Kelly Albright
January 6, 2012 at 8:17 pmI’m a fan of Sam’s on Facebook!
domestic diva
January 6, 2012 at 8:17 pmMy best tip for entertaining on a budget? Host a potluck.
Kelly Albright
January 6, 2012 at 8:15 pmMy aunt used to throw great parties. One of her tips was to prepare the food in advance and then hire a couple of students from the local university to come and do the final preparations and serving. While the latter is not in my budget, I definitely take prep times into consideration. Preparing to entertain can be made so much easier if most of your work can be done in advance.
jenn
January 6, 2012 at 7:52 pmfb post
http://www.facebook.com/jhhuey/posts/166775580096534
jenzen69atyahoodotcom
jenn
January 6, 2012 at 7:51 pmtweet
http://twitter.com/#!/jenzen69/status/155466491142217728
jenzen69atyahoodotcom
jenn
January 6, 2012 at 7:50 pmlike you on fb
jenzen69atyahoodotcom
jenn
January 6, 2012 at 7:48 pmlike sams club on fb
jenzen69atyahoodotcom
jenn
January 6, 2012 at 7:47 pmThe best party i went to was a New Years Eve party a few years ago that was hosted by a chef, I have never had better food!!
thatShortChick
January 6, 2012 at 7:25 pmtweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/thatShortchick/status/155459866419404800
thatShortChick
January 6, 2012 at 7:21 pmthe best parties that I attend are my family’s annual Christmas Eve night of food & games. I love home-cooked and appetizer foods!
Amy
January 6, 2012 at 6:57 pmI am now following you on FB. 🙂
Amy
January 6, 2012 at 6:57 pmI also friended Sam’s Club on FB.
Amy
January 6, 2012 at 6:56 pmMy all-time favorite appetizer is scallops wrapped in bacon. Simple and sooo yummy! I don’t really have any good tips, but maybe if I won a Kitchenaide, my skills would improve! 😉
Lisa Keys
January 6, 2012 at 6:56 pmFirst-you are gorgeous inside and out. Second, I love me some Cupcake wine and third when entertaining buy in bulk at sam’s Club!
Jen
January 6, 2012 at 6:53 pmPasta is always a great party option – this looks really yummy! The best party I have ever been to might have been this past New Years Eve. A potluck with good friends turned into an impromptu dance party, it was so much fun!
mzt1
January 6, 2012 at 6:52 pmI just shared this on Facebook!
Marilyn
January 6, 2012 at 6:45 pmDoes it count that I already am a fan of In Good Taste on Facebook?
Kristen
January 6, 2012 at 6:45 pmI have shared this link on Facebook.
Kristen
January 6, 2012 at 6:45 pmI have liked Sam’s Club on Facebook.
Kristen
January 6, 2012 at 6:44 pmI have liked in good taste on facebook:).
Marilyn
January 6, 2012 at 6:44 pmThis is tomorrow night’s dinner. This recipe looks amazing!!!!!
amy marantino
January 6, 2012 at 6:43 pmmy grandmother’s birthday party
Greg
January 6, 2012 at 6:38 pmAnd I’ll share this on Facebook!
Greg
January 6, 2012 at 6:37 pmEntertaining on a budget? Have your friends bring wine, hit up the day-old bakery. (You’re toasting it anyway!) And pasta, which you did. I already like you on Facebook. Also, you have the face of an angel.
Melissa@IWasBornToCook
January 6, 2012 at 6:30 pmI like you on Facebook. Always have! You’ve been quiet lately – miss you!
Melissa@IWasBornToCook
January 6, 2012 at 6:29 pmmy wedding! 🙂
lynn @ the actor's diet
January 6, 2012 at 6:28 pmjust shared on my facebook wall:
lynn @ the actor's diet
January 6, 2012 at 6:27 pmlove the recipe!!! and i’d LOVE to win a stand mixer. i am finally doing enough baking that i think it’s time to retire the old hand mixer!
the best dinner party i ever went to was this one:
http://theactorsdiet.wordpress.com/2011/07/09/osteria-phyllis/
i’m still licking my lips.
Jenny
January 6, 2012 at 6:25 pmI liked In Good Taste on FB.
Jenny
January 6, 2012 at 6:22 pmI tweeted the giveaway @icywit
Jenny
January 6, 2012 at 6:22 pmBest party I ever attended – my wedding reception!
Lisa
January 6, 2012 at 6:18 pmI tweeted the giveaway
Lisa
January 6, 2012 at 6:18 pmBest party? Entertaining on a budget? You’re hot, Maris. ;D
Christy
January 6, 2012 at 6:01 pmFor my 34th birthday I hosted a homemade pizza party for my best friends. I made everything from scratch. I cooked and cooked and cooked. I was so tired, but so happy. Everything turned out great, everyone had a great time and everyone loved my pizzas.
Kara
January 6, 2012 at 5:58 pmAnd I tweeted
Kara
January 6, 2012 at 5:57 pmI now “Like” In Good Taste on Facebook!
Kara
January 6, 2012 at 5:56 pmThe best partiest I have ever gone to have been at my husband’s aunt and uncle’s place. They usually throw wonderful dinners with amazing food! They are my hosting inspiration, that’s for sure!
Simply Life
January 6, 2012 at 5:48 pmwow! what a great giveaway! I won’t enter bc I already have one and want to share the goods with someone else but someone will be veeery lucky!
Terri P
January 6, 2012 at 5:44 pm1/6/12 Tweet:
https://twitter.com/#!/GeorgiaMist/status/155434334160044034
outofthemist AT gmail DOT com
Terri P
January 6, 2012 at 5:42 pmI LIKE In Good taste on Facebook as Terri P
outofthemist AT gmail DOT com
Terri P
January 6, 2012 at 5:38 pmI LIKE Sam’s Club on Facebook as Terri P
outofthemist AT gmail DOT com
Terri P
January 6, 2012 at 5:37 pmThe best party? Had to be the Mother / Daughter Christmas parties at my daughter’s church! Lots of yummy food, music, games, and friends!
outofthemist AT gmail DOT com
Roz@weightingfor50
January 6, 2012 at 5:32 pmI love this Maris. What a wonderful bargain dinner party idea. I’m in Canada, so I can’t enter, but had to stop by and say “hi”. Have a great weekend.
Leanne Blevins
January 6, 2012 at 5:24 pmGreat Recipe! If I didn’t already have my menu for tomorrow night’s pot luck set I’d make it for sure!
nina
January 6, 2012 at 5:19 pma tip: make it a potluck!
Heidi @ Food Doodles
January 6, 2012 at 5:07 pmI’m a fan of In Good Taste on FB
Heidi @ Food Doodles
January 6, 2012 at 5:05 pmWhat an amazing giveaway. I’ve been dying for a stand mixer for years now 😀 To be completely honest – the best party in terms of food that I’ve ever been to has been one(of many!) that my mom threw when I was still living at home. I don’t know if that’s incredibly sad or not, haha.
cara @ City Girl Chicago
January 6, 2012 at 4:12 pmAnd I’m a fan of In Good Taste on Facebook 🙂
cara @ City Girl Chicago
January 6, 2012 at 4:11 pmI think great people make a great party. All the best parties I’ve been to have seemed “easy” from a hosting perspective ~ put out some little nibbles, turn on the music, keep the glasses full ~ and mingle mingle mingle!
Fingers crossed over here ~ I’d love to add some new tricks to my repertoire with a new mixer!
Bee (Quarter Life Crisis Cuisine)
January 6, 2012 at 4:05 pmOhh I LOVE Carbonara! So easy to make and edit 🙂 My tip for entertaining on a budget–have some solid go-to dishes that aren’t too expensive. I do a jar of chili mixed with cream cheese and topped with shredded cheese as an inexpensive dip, always goes over quite well 🙂
Miranda Couse
January 6, 2012 at 4:00 pmfacebooked the giveaway
Miranda Couse
January 6, 2012 at 3:59 pmtweeted!
https://twitter.com/#!/mmirnanda/status/155407947760025601
Miranda Couse
January 6, 2012 at 3:58 pmI liked In good taste on facebook
Miranda Couse
January 6, 2012 at 3:55 pmI’m a fan of Sam’s club on facebook!
Anna Berman @snackingkitchen
January 6, 2012 at 3:55 pmI threw a Mexican Fiesta party for my mom. We had a small family gathering and everyone loved the buffet style dinner of guacamole, chips, pulled pork, tacos, mexican rice and more!
John
January 6, 2012 at 3:55 pmMaris – you’re absolutely terrific and so’s your Mom. Can’t think of the best party offhand, although when I was with KPMG we had a pretty good one someplace I can’t even remember. But my first company picnic with Lambda has to take the cake.
Miranda Couse
January 6, 2012 at 3:55 pmPotlucks are the best way to entertain on the budget! and you’re gorgeous!
Olga @ MangoTomato
January 6, 2012 at 3:54 pmI’ve made this dish once before for a weeknight dinner for me, but used orzo instead of pasta: it was great!
Would LOVE to win a mixer 😉
Lisa S.
January 6, 2012 at 3:53 pmSearching the ads for meat that’s on sale and building menus around that is how I generally save money while entertaining. Or at least it helps you justify more special ingredients. 🙂
leslie
January 6, 2012 at 3:50 pmAlready a fan on Facebook! Can you tell I need a new mixer???;)
vianney
January 6, 2012 at 3:48 pmyour goregous!!! and your a rock star in the kitchen!!
leslie
January 6, 2012 at 3:48 pmJust Tweeted!
vianney
January 6, 2012 at 3:48 pmliked in good taste on FB
leslie
January 6, 2012 at 3:47 pmJust became a fan of Sams!
vianney
January 6, 2012 at 3:47 pmliked sam’s on FB
leslie
January 6, 2012 at 3:47 pmWell, I think you spend your money wisely!
Hmmm.the best party??? I think my husbands surprise 39th birthday party. I got alcohol poisoning! I suppose that means I must have had a good time!!!!
Awesome giveaway!