If you’re looking for a fun, unique way to throw a party, why not try hosting a Ratatouille-themed celebration? From decorations and party supplies to a hearty menu and activities, there’s no shortage of ways to bring the movie’s memorable characters and story to life. Read on to learn how to plan the perfect Ratatouille-themed party.
Choosing Ratatouille-Inspired Decorations
When it comes to creating a memorable atmosphere for your Ratatouille-themed event, decorations are key. Start by transforming your setting into a Parisian bistro by stringing cafe-style lanterns across the ceiling, using red and white checkerboard wallpaper, and arranging a few mismatched bistro tables and chairs in the center of the room. Or, create a park or garden scene from the movie by hanging garlands of ivy, placing potted plants and flowers around the tables, and decorating the walls with outdoor art.
Creating a Ratatouille-Themed Menu
No Ratatouille party is complete without the signature dish. Ratatouille is a French Provençal stewed vegetable dish and fortunately, it’s one of the easiest recipes to prepare. Simply bring together diced eggplants, tomatoes, onions, garlic, bell peppers and herbs like thyme and oregano in an oven-safe dish, pour some olive oil over the top and bake until the vegetables are tender and browned. Serve as an entrée or side dish.
For additional Ratatouille-inspired recipes, consider making an appetizer of onion tartlets filled with herbed ricotta cheese and bacon, serve up a savory main course of mushroom ragout and potatoes topped with gruyere cheese, and finish with a delectable dessert of savarin (a vanilla cake soaked in rum syrup) with cream puffs and raspberries.
Finding Ratatouille Party Supplies
Now it’s time to shop for decorations and supplies. Look for ready-made party kits that include themed plates, napkins, cups and other accessories, or opt for plain supplies with stickers or labels featuring lovable rat character Remy. You’ll also want to stock up on plastic cutlery, serving trays, tablecloths and other essentials. If you plan on baking your own cakes or cupcakes, decorate them with Remy-inspired cake toppers or templates.
Setting Up the Ratatouille Party Area
Once the decorations and supplies have arrived, it’s time to get the party area set up for guests. Arrange seating at different tables for a cozy atmosphere. Place food in the center of the room on serving trays so everyone can share. Place bowls of nuts or popcorn in various locations to encourage snacking throughout the night. Finally, place an area rug down at the front of the room for a storytelling corner if you’re planning on hosting any activities.
Inviting Guests to Your Ratatouille-Themed Party
When it comes time to start inviting guests to your Ratatouille-themed party, don’t be afraid to get creative! Create a unique online invitation featuring Remy’s head on a dinner plate or use lively addresses like “Come cook up some fun at Remy’s Ratatouille Party!” Additionally, don’t forget to include a detailed description of the event’s themes and activities so guests know what to expect.
Preparing Ratatouille Dishes
Now that your decorations are in place and your guests have RSVP’d, it’s time to start cooking! The key to a successful Ratatouille dinner is knowing what to prepare in advance so you can serve up a delicious array of dishes without any last-minute stress. To get started, take care of the ratatouille ingredients such as pre-cut vegetables, olive oil, herbs and spices. Have your menu pre-planned and make sure you have all your ingredients on hand before you begin. Have any complimentary dishes ready to be heated at the last minute as well as fresh garnishes such as chopped parsley or chives.
Serving Ratatouille at the Party
When your Ratatouille is cooked and ready to serve, be sure to display it front and center so everyone can enjoy its beautiful colors and aromatic flavors. Transfer it to an oven-safe serving platter and place it in the center of the table for easy access. As each guest comes forward, fill their plate with some of the dishes you have prepared alongside a hearty portion of ratatouille.
Crafting Fun Ratatouille Activities
Once everyone has had their fill of delicious food, get creative with some engaging Ratatouille-themed activities. Host a scavenger hunt through the party area where guests search for hidden spatulas and whisks or challenge them to recreate fun scenes from the movie using props or costumes. For younger kids, set up Pixar•PIXAR movie trivia or a Remy-inspired art station.
Celebrating with a Ratatouille Dessert
Finish off your evening with something sweet. Want to make your own confectionary masterpiece? Create your own twice-baked apple tarts or Remy’s cheesy pear cake. Or if baking isn’t your thing, whip up some quick Carmélised Madeleines (small French cakes) with fresh fruit or cream filling.
Cleaning Up After the Perfect Ratatouille-Themed Party
Once the party is over and all your guests have gone home, it’s time to start cleaning up. Separate all party supplies into trash bags for easy disposal later. Wash any reusable dishes or utensils in hot soapy water and dry them for later use. Finally, vacuum or sweep up any food remnants from cushions or carpets and enjoy the memories of an unforgettable Ratatouille party.
