Indian Dinner

With a few simple touches, it's easy to transform your dining room into an exotic Indian escape. Start by purchasing a beautiful piece of sari fabric and use this to cover the table. Next set the table with gold chargers and white plates. White napkins are simple yet chic when tucked into snake-like spiral napkin rings.

Silverware with gold stems are lux without being over the top. Select a versatile glass, like a wide goblet, that can hold beer, wine, and cocktails. Taj lanterns in an array of vibrant colors are functionally fabulous at creating an entrancing atmosphere. A bouquet of fresh flowers in a bright hue is a necessary final detail.

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No themed dinner party can begin without the relaxing mood enhancer and conversation stimulator that is the specialty cocktail. Since India (outside of the big cities) doesn't have much of a drinking culture, I'm turning to Dale Degroff, the king of cocktails, for inspiration.

According to Degroff, in its day — during the 19th century when East India existed — the East India cocktail was similar to the cosmopolitan in popularity: Everyone enjoyed it. The mixture of cognac, pineapple juice, and orange curacao pairs perfectly with Padma Lakshmi's salty, crispy kahti rolls.

For the main course serve cold beer, a Pinot Blanc, sweet Reisling, or an unoaked Syrah. To look at the recipe for the East India cocktail, read more

A lassi is a traditional Indian milk shake made with yogurt instead of milk. While many variations are savory, for my Indian-inspired dinner party, I'll be whipping up a mango lassi. There's no sugar, but honey provides a subtle sweetness to the creamy drink, while lime juice adds a refreshing tartness. For those guests who have an extreme sweet tooth, consider purchasing a couple flavored chocolate bars. Vosges Naga Exotic Candy Bar is inspired by the tribes of Northeast India. The bar is a mixture of deep milk chocolate, sweet Indian curry, and coconut. It makes a deliciously easy finish to the rich meal. To check out the mango lassi recipe, read more

Watching the radiant Slumdog Millionaire cast at the Oscars and the clips from the lush film made me hungry for Indian culture — and Indian food. I've decided to round up an intimate group and host an informal Indian dinner. My girlfriend Emily is bringing the wonderful soundtrack from the film and I'm in charge of the menu.

With fewer people traveling due to the economy, this is a great way to experience an exotic culture in the comfort of your own kitchen. Cooking a meal is more affordable than purchasing a plane ticket, so consider brightening up a Winter's evening with this lively get-together. Jump-start the party with Padma Lakshmi's crispy turkey rolls with mint and date dipping sauce; they should be ready and waiting for guests to arrive.

Shrimp tikka with mango chutney is fragrant, flavorful, sweet, and spicy. For the main course, serve chicken with a fresh, tangy cilantro sauce, white rice, and green lentils with lemon slices and popped mustard seeds. To entice your tastebuds with these dishes, read more