Have you made these dishes before? It all seems a bit off. Chives in a salad, spicy red sauce and salmon, caracel/coconut cake.

I’ve never come across these combos. Maybe switch to branzino? For the cookies get some fancy Italian cookies and pre-made desserts.

Use wild salmon

Since you asked, I think coconut is more polarizing than just plain chocolate. I would have gone with some variant of plain chocolate cake to reduce risk of it not being popular.

But on the other hand, it sounds like you're a foodie and you've made these before, so you know how real people react to them.

Anonymous wrote:I would not do spicy unless you know they like it.

I would do it but I would add another protein dish and mixed veggies for variety.

Anonymous wrote:+2
I agree with both the posters who are concerned about serving spicy food to a first time guess, and those who who are wary of a salmon-red sauce combo.

Could you cook the salmon separately and serve the pasta and red sauce on the side?

Also, I’m assuming your apple and pecorino salad also has some sort of greens, but if not I’d add a green vegetable somewhere.

Yes re the “salad”. I like apples, walnuts, cheese of all sorts, and chives. The combo does not = salad, and the chives are a puzzling addition with or without greens. They’’ll be lost if it’s an actual salad. They’ll be extraneous if it’s a charcuterie plate.

I agree with the poster above who wants clarity on whether or not your salad has some sort of green vegetable in it — you need that. Also, I would serve it alongside the salmon pasta, not as a starter, especially because you mention it is spicy, so they have something to refresh their palate if the heat gets to bother them.

Beyond that I personally wouldn’t want the caramel swirl in a coconut cake (I love coconut cake, but I’m a purist) but overall I think it sounds lovely and I doubt many people are as diligent about a traditional coconut cake recipe as I am. Pair some wine well, and you’re good.

Anonymous wrote:I agree with both the posters who are concerned about serving spicy food to a first time guess, and those who who are wary of a salmon-red sauce combo

My family and dinner group friends would love spicy and salmon-red sauce. Yes. Yes please.

It would be a shame if we were served not spicy salmon-red salmon sauce because our host prepared food based on the preferences of anonymous internet people rather than the preferences of actual guests. Is communicating with your guests an option?

I (not your guest) approve.

Next time solicit preferences from your actual guests. You are guaranteed to know what your guests like/dislike when you ask. Execute according to your ability.

+2
I agree with both the posters who are concerned about serving spicy food to a first time guess, and those who who are wary of a salmon-red sauce combo.

Could you cook the salmon separately and serve the pasta and red sauce on the side?

Also, I’m assuming your apple and pecorino salad also has some sort of greens, but if not I’d add a green vegetable somewhere.

No chives but the cake sounds wonderful!

Sounds great. I'd eat it all and be happy to have you as a neighbor.

Go with the chives. we put them in all of our salads.

It is fine. Those with food allergies, like me,will tell you.

Sounds yummy.

I've never heard of salmon with a red sauce before. Not sure it sounds good. Some things should stay simple, and salmon might be one of them.

Sounds amazing. I always ask guests if they have any allergies or food aversions. That way you are covered