[Mumma3]

We're having some friends over for dinner in a couple of weeks, and I really want to make something lovely. 3 courses, and gluten free (or easily adaptable - DH is gluten free, so I'm comfortable adapting).

I'm thinking pavlova/chocolate mousse for dessert - I'm a big fan of dessert, and don't usually have a problem planning these.

One of the guests can't eat prawns, but other seafood is ok. Both the other girls are fabulous cooks, and always do amazing meals for guests. I do love cooking, and used to enjoy entertaining, but have got out of the habit over the last few years.

So, any ideas for a gorgeous entree or spectacular main course?

[cuddlebud]

Hmmm - gluten free makes me always think of rice.

How about a cauliflower pannacotta with pan fried scallops for entree. Or a seafood platter (oysters kilpatrick, prawns, grilled calimari)

Main could be a paella or risotto, even a special roast like stuffed pork loin or slow roasted lamb shoulder with some slightly different trimmings.

Another Option for dessert is caramel parfait with candied popcorn (sorry you'll need to google it from gourmet traveller, haven't figured out how to post links on iPad) always a showstopper.

[dogged]

A seafood platter for entree is a good suggestion in case it's really hot weather. You might not feel like cooking a roast if it's 40 degrees outside, let alone eating one.

Even gazpacho if you like it?
Followed by paella for main?

A warm salad of duck breast with a spicy thai-style dressing - I've done this as a main course many times and it's always a hit. You can prepare and lay out the salad on plates in advance so all you need to do at the last minute is pan fry the duck. It's delicious.

[Mumma3]

Love the sound of the duck - DH loves duck, and a seafood platter is a great idea.

I used to subscribe to Gourmet Traveller, but then I had children and realised that Super Food Ideas was more achievable! Now the kids are older, I should revive my subscription

Thanks for the ideas.

[MrsLexiK]

If you want a different take on the seafood platter, put calamari, scollops even fish into lime/lemon juice and put in the fridge, then pour some coconut milk into the dish after it has finished "cooking" and let it marinade. Then serve in lettuce leaves, along with some oysters if you like. It is divine, but if you have pregnant ladies they won't be able to eat it as it is not considered cooked seafood.

[Mumma3]

Ooh, MrsLexiK, that sounds interesting. How long should it stay in the fridge at each stage?

I'm liking the idea of this, and happy to add that there are no pregnant ladies among us - all our factories closed long ago