7 Worst Dinner Party Dishes

Many hosts and hostesses will agree: hosting a dinner party can be stressful. There is a bar to stock, tables to set, flowers to arrange, and of course an inviting scene to set — and then you've got to prepare multiple courses on top of that!

Click here to see the 7 Worst Dinner Party Dishes Slideshow.

We couldn't emphasize keeping things simple enough, whether it's when setting the table, shopping for food, or setting up the bar. Same goes for when you're planning the menu: Simple is better. But serving garlicky hummus with some store-bought chips might not be the wisest appetizer to serve — unless you and your guests plan on not talking at all when seated around the table. Same goes for that tomato soup, served with croutons, a garnish of crème fraîche, and a pinch of micro basil. The last thing you need to worry about is spilling soup on the floor before it makes its way to the table or using tweezers to properly align the garnish. So before you settle on the menu for your next gathering, read up on what dishes are best to avoid and consider our suggestions for a safer alternative. You can thank us later.

Click here to see the 7 Worst Dinner Party Dishes Slideshow.