How do you feel about cooking for a big group, is it a thrill, or does the pressure get to you?

A natural way to answer

I quite enjoy it, as long as I'm organised. The key for me is preparing as much as possible in advance, so I'm not panicking at the last minute. Cooking for lots of people can be daunting, but there's real satisfaction in seeing a full table enjoying something you made.

Key phrases to use

• running around like a headless chicken — rushing about frantically and disorganised“I was running around like a headless chicken before the guests arrived.”
• tuck in — to start eating something eagerly and with enjoyment“Sit down and tuck in while it's hot!”
• pull out all the stops — to make every possible effort to make something impressive“She pulled out all the stops for the dinner party.”