BRANCHING OUT WITH BRUNCH

When you think of brunch, perhaps you conjure images of French toast or quiche, omelettes or Belgian waffles, mimosas or Bloody Mary’s. Maybe you typically go out with a few friends to one of the local hot spots on a Saturday or Sunday morning to indulge in the standard brunch fare. But tell us – have you ever considered hosting your own brunch soiree?

If you’re the type of person who enjoys hosting, then a weekend brunch gathering should be next on your list of shindigs. But don’t stop there – give your social function a unique twist with this list of tips and ideas:

Choose a theme. If you’re hoping to get really creative with your brunch, then choose a theme that will instantly bring your gathering to the next level. You can keep it relatively simple by choosing a regional theme such as Mexican (huevos rancheros, anyone?) or Cajun (shrimp and grits, please!), or you could go for something whackier. Consider a DIY brunch theme in which guests build their own food and drink items (such as a Bruschetta Bar or a DIY Mimosa Bar). You could also try out a Vermont theme with brunch items that incorporate maple syrup. Or go for a Beer Brunch and make foods flavored with different beers (such as Peanut butter Belgian Ale Waffles, or Buttermilk and Beer Beignets), then swap the mimosas in favor of some tasty beer cocktails. Whatever theme you decide on, remember to have fun with it!

Bring the meat. Brunch by its very definition is truly two meals in one. With this in mind, you’ll want to make sure to fill everyone’s stomachs for the majority of the day by providing hearty and protein-rich foods. Consider making a tasty Sausage and Kale Egg White Frittata, or perhaps a Sausage, Mushroom, and Swiss Quiche. If you decide to serve meat on its own, make it easier on yourself by baking things like bacon or sausage in the oven. Not only will it make your house smell incredible (especially with a sweet aroma from our Maple Breakfast links), but you’ll save the hassle of dealing with a fryer and grease splotches before guests arrive.

Have a salad. Incorporating a salad to the menu is an easy way to add color to the table, and also give guests some variety in flavor and texture. Whether you choose to add a green salad or a fruit salad, make sure you choose something that can be made ahead of time so you have less to worry about on the day-of.

Plan ahead. As anyone who’s thrown a party will know, timing is everything. Since brunch is an earlier meal, it’s particularly important to prep as much as possible the night before so you don’t burden yourself with having to wake up at the crack of dawn to get everything accomplished. As you did with the salad, make sure to choose dishes that can be made ahead of time such as quiches or frittatas. Stay away from omelettes, crepes, or pancakes – anything that has to be made on the spot, really. Try baked goods like this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Muffin recipe that will be sure to impress, and can be baked in advance. Look for great casserole recipes (like this Breakfast Sausage Casserole, or this Overnight Pancake Casserole). In addition to pre-cooking, be sure to pre-set the table as well. Set out plates and place settings the night before so you don’t forget to do it in the morning.

However creative you decide to get with your brunch, don’t forget the most important part: enjoy yourself! Relax with your guests and enjoy the delicious spread you’ve put together. Bon appetit!