Party-perfect pointers

•If you are serving hot rolls on a buffet, line the basket with aluminum foil before you line it with a towel. The rolls lose heat less quickly that way.

•”I love to spice up a simple dip by serving it in a green pepper. I just wash the pepper and cut off the top. Then, I core it and spoon in the dip. The top can be set next to it and filled with extra dip, or just used as a garnish. It’s fun and makes an attractive presentation.” — J.L. in New Mexico

•If you just aren’t up for cooking a dinner, but you want to get together with friends, here are two great ideas: a wine-and-cheese party, or a dessert party — potluck. Have everyone bring a dessert item or a bottle of wine or cheese to share. There’s no pressure to arrange a full dinner, and you can schedule it after or before dinnertime.

•”When taking meals to summer potlucks, be sure to write your name on the container (each piece) with permanent marker. If you have to leave before the dish is empty, you can get it back later, and the host will know who it belongs to.” — V.C. in West Virginia