The easiest entertaining idea: Throw a crostini party!

October and its promise of crisp, cool fall days has arrived. And if you're anything like us, so is the itch to retreat indoors and fill your kitchen with good friends. A casual, impromptu dinner party is a quick fix for the weekday rut, and there's no reason you should have to wait until Saturday to impress your nearest and dearest with a meal they won't forget.

One of our favorite last minute gatherings is the do-it-yourself Crostini Party. Simply prep a selection of toppings ahead of time (see 10 of our favorites below), pick up a few good baguettes, set, slice and serve. Not only are finger foods everyone's not-so-guilty pleasure, the mere prospect of an interactive snack buffet will draw a crowd.

The best part of it all? You'll be calm, cool and collected -- not stuck in the kitchen, but building your own perfect bites, right alongside your happy guests.

Get all D.I.Y and make your own fresh ricotta or learn 2 ways to roast red peppers.

Have room for another course? Check out these dessert recipes from Food52.