One of the challenges I found myself facing this weekend, (and I love a cooking challenge) was to come up with a couple of dishes that traveled well. We were headed out of town for a family Christmas party and I wanted a make ahead option for the main party, and one for a more intimate brunch the next morning. Here’s what I came up with…..
Typically I’m the one that brings salad to the large family gatherings. I love a big green salad chock full of veggies. The downside, is the last minute assembly and the waste factor for leftover lettuce salad (since it doesn’t keep well.) After some noodling around my recipe files, I came up with this Broccoli, Bacon and Cheese Salad. Everyone seems to love its combination of crunchy broccoli, salty bacon, kick of red onion and a touch of sweetness from the raisins. The prep can be done completely in advance, it travels well and it’s sturdy enough to retain leftovers, if there are any.
For breakfast, I came up with this Brunch Omelet Torte. It’s a bit more prep work than a standard quiche, but uses purchased puff pastry and can be assembled a day in advance. The morning of our brunch, I just popped the torte into the oven, and then caught some quality time over a nice cup of tea with Mom & Dad. No last minute scurrying around the kitchen. 40 minutes later we had an entire brunch in single dish – just add fruit!
Appreciate the feedback Karen. You were missed, but I know that you made your family time count as well on your trip to Florida!
Wonderful recipes and great advice on how to make your family time really count! Thanks Cathy!!!
a gal at work brought the same salad for a pot luck at work. couldn’t get enough. very tasty