When deciding what foods to bring to a potluck it is important to consider the time you have for preparation. It is also important to take into account travel time and the setting. Not all foods travel well because of temperature requirements or fragility.
Salads
There are many varieties of salads from which to choose. Cold salads can be prepared ahead of time such as pasta salad, fruit salad, or potato salad and are actually better after resting overnight. If you want to bring a traditional salad made of a variety of vegetables and meats, be sure to keep wet ingredients such as diced tomatoes and dressing separate from the drier ingredients such as sliced peppers and cheese until arriving at the party.
Breads
Breads are a fantastic dish to take to a potluck party because they can be made ahead and easily reheated. Loaves of crusty French bread are great for a more formal party while cornbread or biscuits would be right at home at an outdoor party next to barbecued food or chili. Croissants and dinner rolls go with practically everything and can be made with prepared dough. This makes them ideal for party guests who want to make a contribution to the dinner but don't have much time to prepare a dish.
Desserts
Desserts are another great potluck choice because they can be made ahead and most do not have to be kept hot. Blueberry or peach pie is great for a summer gathering while apple or pecan is more suitable for a fall or winter party. Cakes without icing such as a coffee cake, fruitcake, pound cake, or bundt cake all travel well and go well with most meals. Single-serving desserts such as cookies, brownies, fruit tarts, popovers, and cupcakes are great for a party because they cut down on serving utensils needed. They also make it easier for guests to sample different items.
Electric Cooking Pot Ideas
For a meat or main dish that needs to stay warm, the electric cooking pot, or slow cooker, is perfect. Soups, stews, and chili can all be started earlier in the day and then kept warm at the host's home. Chicken, steak tips, and pork roasts can all be prepared and served as the main dish at the potluck party. It is even possible to make any of the other courses in the pot if they are best served warm.
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