It’s that time of year again! The holiday season is upon us, and that means potluck gatherings are all the rage. If you’re looking for recipes that will both please and impress, then you’ve come to the right place. From festive classics to sweet and tempting treats, La Española is here to inspire you with a host of delicious dishes all with one ingredient in common: wholesome, fruity, and flavorful olive oil.
What is Potluck?
If you’re new to the concept of potluck is a type of gathering or meal where each guest contributes a dish to share with the group. Instead of one person preparing the entire menu, everyone brings something to the table, like an appetizer, main course, side, or dessert. The word potluck comes from the old idea of “the luck of the pot,” meaning you eat whatever is available or brought by others. Today, it’s a popular way to celebrate holidays, office parties, and community events because it’s a fun way for everyone to get together and share their culinary creativity.
Perfect Sides for Potluck
Potluck gatherings are all about putting on a spread, and recipes for side dishes work well. For a festive and seasonal dish, how about trying your hand at these Sautéed Green Beans? Cooked in exquisitely fruity and fragrant La Española Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, it’s a seasonal classic with a gourmet twist.
Likewise, these Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Bacon are sure to be a hit. Savory and seasonal in equal measure, it’s no wonder this recipe has long been a fixture of festive feasts.
Show-Stopping Main Dish with Olive Oil
Whether you’ve been assigned main dish duties or simply prefer to prepare something big and beautiful, this Roasted Ham recipe may be right down your street. Roasted or baked ham is a great option for a potluck as it’s easy to carve into slices and pass around the party. First time cooking baked ham? Don’t fret! Our easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process step by step.
Similarly, this Quiche Lorraine works wonders as the centre piece. A staple of French cuisine, it’s made with grated cheese, crispy bacon, and La Española Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil. But what makes this dish perfect for a potluck? It’s easy to slice into portions and share around. Check out our recipe video on how to make it.
Desserts to Dazzle
When thinking of dishes to prepare for a potluck gathering, don’t sleep on desserts. Ending things on a sweet note is essential to the success of any party, so here are some easy dessert recipes that are sure to go down a treat.
Sweet and Seasonal
For a popular dessert made with in-season ingredients, try this Easy Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Made with La Española Mild & Light Olive Oil, it’s a tried and true dessert that’s sure to please everyone.
Equally seasonal and crowdpleasing is this Traditional Pecan Pie. With a crunchy crust and soft and sweet interior, this earthy dessert is always a hit during the festive period.
Tips for a Successful Potluck
A potluck gathering is a fun and communal way to share food, laughter, and good company. With a bit of planning, you can make sure everything runs smoothly and everyone leaves happy (and full!). Keep these key tips in mind to host or join a successful potluck:
- Coordinate dishes ahead of time so there’s a balanced mix of mains, sides, and desserts. Creating a group chat is a good way to make sure everyone’s on the same page.
- Label food clearly, especially for dietary restrictions or allergens.
- Bring your dish ready to serve with the right utensils.
- If you’re a guest, make sure you help the host by cleaning up and sharing leftovers fairly. If you’re hosting, don’t be shy about asking guests to help with the clean-up.
- Most importantly, relax and enjoy the sense of community that comes with sharing a meal together.
A Season for Sharing
The festive period is all about sharing—stories, gifts, time, and culinary creations. Potluck offers the perfect excuse to gather friends and family around you for an informal festive feast. This year, why not add some Mediterranean flair to your cooking by exploring La Española’s wide range of olive oil-based recipes!