really nice but easy meal

[noddyholder]

I have 2 of my best friends coming this week with kids.I have sorted all the food etc for kids but would like to cook the 4 adults a really nice meal on the night they arrive after a v long drive.Something impressive but easy as I want to be able to chat whilst cooking as i haven't seen them in years.I know sopmeone will think of something before i do!

ooh snafu, lucky you! we have an organic chicken tonight and the shanks are for a (belated) valentine's (dh away monday night, awww)

how long do they take have only had them from m&s(shame)

I'd say a couple of hours to make sure they're really "falling" (there's no shame in that )- and shove a few sprigs of thyme and a couple of bay leaves in so there's no mistaking that homemade look...(do consult a recipe if you can though, i tend to shove a load of stuff and it usually works out fine, but am crap at giving advice because of my "sling it in" attitude )

NH, see if you can get hold of a copy of March Good Housekeeping - brilliant 20-recipe section on "What laidback cooks do for dinner parties" - some fantastic cheats!!