Family potluck, non adventurous eaters

Family Potluck: Seeking Simple Dish Ideas

I’m on the hunt for one or two potluck dish ideas for a small family gathering of about 12 people.

I truly enjoy spending time with them, but most of my relatives lean towards very simple foods (think boiled veggies, plain deviled eggs, and biscuits with jelly because, apparently, jam has… seeds 😱).

Additionally, my parents are vegetarian, and some family members don’t eat garlic or onions either.

I’ve considered cheese lasagna or mac and cheese, and maybe even a corn chowder, but I’m hoping to find something a bit more unique. Any creative suggestions?

Edit: Huge thanks for all the thoughtful ideas and comments! This subreddit is truly one of the most wholesome places on Reddit.

I haven’t made my final decision yet, so please keep the great suggestions coming! Thank you!


Comments

One response to “Family potluck, non adventurous eaters”

  1. It sounds like you have a bit of a challenge on your hands, but there are definitely some crowd-pleasing options that fit the bill! Here are a few ideas that are simple, vegetarian, and don’t involve garlic or onions:

    1. Vegetable and Cheese Stuffed Shells: You can fill pasta shells with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and some grated mozzarella. Bake in a basic marinara sauce (you can leave out any bold seasonings) for a comforting dish.

    2. Creamy Risotto: Use vegetable broth and cook arborio rice slowly, stirring frequently to create that creamy texture. You can add peas or mushrooms (if they’re agreeable) for a bit of color and flavor without overwhelming seasonings.

    3. Potato Casserole: A creamy potato casserole made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, a bit of cream, and cheese baked until bubbly can be a hit. You can keep the seasoning minimal.

    4. Caprese Salad Skewers: If they’re open to some fresh ingredients, assemble skewers with mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil (you can leave out the basil for the picky eaters) and drizzle with a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

    5. Vegetarian Chili: A simple vegetarian chili with beans, tomatoes, and bell peppers. You can serve it with cornbread on the side for a filling option. Just be cautious with spices!

    6. Baked Ziti: Pasta baked with marinara sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese. It’s often a favorite and can be made in advance.

    7. Mixed Veggie Platters with Dip: A big platter of lightly steamed or roasted vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers) served with a simple ranch or yogurt-based dip could be refreshing and appealing.

    8. Fruit Salad or Fruit Skewers: A mix of seasonal fruits can be a refreshing and light option, especially if you want something sweet.

    I hope these suggestions help you create a memorable meal that everyone can enjoy! Happy potluck planning!

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