As a host, I love to serve recipes that feel impressive. However, I don’t always have time to spend all day prepping in the kitchen, or the desire to create a long list for the grocery store. I’m still able to pull off something special, thanks to clever semi-homemade recipes and a few other tricks, like picking up quality premade items from the store or improvising with what I already have on hand.
My favorite gatherings happen when everyone is relaxed, helping themselves and lingering around the table longer than planned. That’s what I had in mind here. This menu is easy to adapt and full of little touches that make brunch feel generous and fun. It’s got a customizable yet dazzling main dish, a few simple apps and a fondue finish. Invite some friends and give it a try.
1/5
Mimosas
From the Recipe Creator:
Mimosas are a classic brunch drink for a reason! They’re simple to make and easy to batch, but most of all, they’re delicious! —Alicia Rooker, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 88 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Brunch means bubbles to me, and nothing sets a festive tone like a sparkling signature cocktail. If you don’t want to use orange juice, try making my top riffs on a classic mimosa. You can make a Bunny Hop with carrot and apple juice, a Poinsettia with cranberry juice and lime, or a cider-based mimosa with apple cider and fresh mint. For a lighter version, swap in sparkling water, 7UP or a fruity Italian soda. Get creative!
2/5
Pickled Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
I appreciate this appetizer’s ease of preparation, especially during the hectic holiday season. The recipe can easily be doubled for a crowd.
Nutrition Facts:
3 each: 132 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 153mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 16g protein.
I love a forgiving make-ahead appetizer. All you need for this one are a few pantry staples for the marinade and a bag of cooked shrimp. Prep it overnight, and you’re golden! Set out the quick-pickled shrimp when the party starts alongside sliced baguettes, creamy Boursin cheese, fancy olives or oven-roasted tomatoes.
3/5
Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
From the Recipe Creator:
I serve this air-fryer bacon-wrapped asparagus with grilled meat and sliced fresh tomatoes for a wonderful meal. —Trisha Kitts, Dickinson, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 25 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 74mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Here’s a simple two-ingredient bite. Guests can help wrap the asparagus if they arrive early or if you’re running short on time. My friends love to help me cook in the kitchen!
4/5
Savory Dutch Baby
From the Recipe Creator:
This savory Dutch baby delivers comfort and flavor, and it brings a smile. It’s the perfect vehicle for using up little bits of leftovers, as long as they are fully cooked and heated in the bottom of the skillet prior to adding the batter and cheese. —Susan Anderson, Helena, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 343 calories, 21g fat (11g saturated fat), 290mg cholesterol, 542mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.
Cue the drama when this showstopper lands hot on the table! The base recipe calls for staples like butter, eggs, milk and flour, and it’s really easy to customize with a variety of mix-ins. In my favorite variation, I line the pan with cooked sausages wrapped in bits of bacon before pouring in the batter. Try making it with asparagus and chopped ham, or add Gruyere cheese and serve it with dessert wine and a fancy cheese board.
5/5
Dulce de Leche
From the Recipe Creator:
This simple and sweet dulce de leche is made with one ingredient: sweetened condensed milk. The thick caramel sauce can be used in cookies, cakes and toast! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 127 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
Fondue is a fun, interactive way to linger over the last course, and this shortcut version of a traditional Argentine recipe is super easy to make. All you have to do is slowly bake a can of sweetened condensed milk to make dulce de leche. I usually bake it right in my oven-safe fondue pot and serve it with dippers like fruit, cookies and marshmallows. My favorites are key lime cookies, sugar wafers, starfruit, strawberries and pineapple.
