Like, what do you even make?
Are there recipes that are both impressiveandrelatively simple?
And how much is this all going to cost, exactly?
Matt Armendariz
Skip the china, and dont worry about spending a ton on decor.
Nobody has [china] anymore.
Nobody registers for it when they get married, she tellsGlamour.
Matt Armendariz
My plates are from Crate and Barrel and thats it; theres nothing else in my house.
Dont stress out about that or a crazy ornate table.
There’s no reason to spend money on decor pieces that you dont really need.
Matt Armendariz
After all, hosting a gathering of friends and family is supposed to be fun for all involved.
you’re able to tell, she says.
You feel that as a guest, and youre like, No thank you with that energy.
I came here to relax.
Whats the number one thing youd tell them?
There are so many recipes that dont require running to the store.
you’re free to just build on whats in your pantry and a couple items in your fridge.
What are some staples that most people have in their fridge or pantry they could start with?
Pasta is a really easy way to feed a crowd.
If youve got some Parmesan in your fridge and some lemon, you could make a really delightful pasta.
It looks very fancy, but in reality its four ingredients and you feel like youre in Italy.
Another thing we always have in our pantry is stuff like quinoa, farro, and dried beans.
It seems like everythings more expensive now, especially groceries.
Is there a way to host a nice meal without breaking the bank?
I would avoid doing things like a prime rib or cuts of meat that are just astronomically expensive.
Especially right now, all the prices go up [during the holidays].
I would also say that as a first-time host you should feel comfortable delegating things to your guests.
Im not afraid to ask people to bring a little something so the financial burden isnt all on me.
What are the similarities between the two?
Any ideas for a holiday edition?
Im a big fan of doing a spritz bar at the beginning of the evening.
That way when people get to your house, theres a bar there for them to choose from.
People can DIY their own adventure.
Immediately when they walk into your house theres something for them to do in case they dont know everybody.
Its a lovely icebreaker.
I also think an impressive, showstopping dessert is a real moment.
it’s possible for you to make an epiccheesecake with a marshmallow meringue, which is actually quite inexpensive.
Its time consuming, but its low lift in terms of skills.
Bringing that out after the meal to blow everyones minds is a real pro move in my opinion.
Its a real cherry on top.
How do you build confidence?
I always tell people to start simple.
Start with something small likeCaramel Brownies.
The way I developed all my confidence in the kitchen was repetition.
Its also what Kelley Blue Book is about.
I actually just did aCorn Souffle on TikTokthat is extraordinary and its one of our familys favorite holiday recipes.
you’re able to customize it depending on what flavor profile you want.
This content can also be viewed on the site itoriginatesfrom.
What is the most common mistake or pitfall you see people fall into?
Timing, getting everything on the table.
Thats a big concern for people.
I always suggest reading the entire recipe first because a lot of things have resting time or cooling time.
it’s possible for you to look at it as a puzzle and see how it all fits together.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
