Find out what to bring to a potluck, plus tips for hosting and attending a casual potluck dinner.
What is apotluck, really, but an excuse to share good food and conversation with friends and family?
What Is a Potluck?
A potluck is different from other planned food-centric get-togethers.
Most of us think of potlucks as a dinner party in which every guest brings a dish to share.
Potlucks originated during hard times; historical evidence shows they originated in the 1930s, during the Great Depression.
This takes the pressure off the host for “doing it all” (hooray!).
Because a potluck is meant to be casual, Anderson explains that there’s no hard-and-fast rule for invitations.
Choosing a theme for your potluck is a fun way to tap into everyone’s creative side.
Anderson suggests picking a theme and coordinating dishes with a Google doc.
Or, choose one dish and have your guests all create their own unique version.
Need an idea to get started?
Anderson suggests asking guests to bring their favorite guacamole-based dish to a taco-themed potluck.
A little decoration goes a long way (remember that it’s meant to be casual!)
Some inexpensive candles or fresh flowers are always appreciated.
Anderson also suggests unexpected decor ideas, like lemons in a vase, or a vibrant table runner.
To keep cleanup minimal and easy, use eco-friendly disposable plates, cups and cutlery.
So what you bring to a potluck should be simple and comforting.
Forget the fussy, multistep recipes that feature expensive ingredients.
Sounds pretty great, right?
Don’t forget to make your potluck contribution nutritious and wholesome, too.
Here are 10 of our favorite healthy recipes to make and bring to a potluck.
This one ditches the heavy mayonnaise-based dressing for Greek-inspired flavors.
This flavorful recipe includes fiber-rich black beans, and the dressing is creamy thanks to heart-healthy avocado!
Vegan Creamy Coleslaw
Coleslaw, but make it vegan!
You won’t believe how rich and delicious this crunchy coleslaw tastes.
Not only are they easy to make in a large batch, but they’re also perfectly portioned.
Bonus: Serving them as individual casseroles keeps everyone safe, healthy and socially distanced.
We’re loving the creamy tahini dressing and all of the cozy fall vibes with this recipe.
It’s just the right amount of sweet and can be baked a day in advance.
Simply reheat it before serving, or dig in at room temperature.
Serve plain yogurt on the side for a creamy topping.
Spinach & Mushroom Quiche
Pictured Recipe:Spinach & Mushroom Quiche
Everyone loves quiche.
But nobody loves fussy pie crusts.
This lightened-up version of the classic is crustless, so it comes together in a breeze.
Peach Sangria
This refreshing, big-batch cocktail is always a crowd-pleaser.
Plus, it’s easy to make.
