2 questions for a dinner party please!

[gregssausageroll]

Firstly I am doing chateubriand (sp). I don't like gravy with mine but I know the men in attendance will. What can I make as it is only cooked for 18 minutes so not long enough to get any gravy from the pan.

Secondly, what is a good easy starter. Non cheese.

Thanks

I would make either a red wine or peppercorn sauce in advance - just throw in the juices after you have rested the meat.

Starters that you can prep easily in advance:
crab/ prawn cocktail (very retro but everyone loves it)
smoked salmon on blinis
smoked salmon on beetroot and potato rosti
pate? My DH hates it so I never make it but it's an easy one to do in advance.
Heston's Scotch Eggs

I can think of loads more... I love hosting dinner parties

I agree, red wine or peppercorn.
Starter:
Scallop and lentils (Jamie does a good recipe)
Pâté and toast
Soup, something like French onion with croutons

Lovely ideas thanks.

Will probably go with red wine gravy so if either of you have a tested receipe I'd be grateful. Off to google recipes now.