Today I am sharing a roundup of my favorite meals to take to someone. Providing a meal is a one of the most practical ways to serve others during a major life moment. It is also a way to practice hospitality outside the walls of our home.
In addition to the food, here are three things I like to remember.
The Trouble Is The Gift.
I have written on this topic and feel very strongly about it, but the point in preparing a meal for someone, whether it is your family or the family of a friend, is not simply to feed them. Physical nourishment is part of the equation, but the other part is to express love and care by going to a bit of trouble for them. Hospitality is not a bottom-line endeavor. It is an art. I am not saying you need to live outside your limits when you take someone a meal (or even cook something from scratch), but embrace the process and be you best thoughtful self.
Packaging Matters.
It is easier to say yes to bringing a meal to someone when you have the right tools on hand. It also serves the receiving party when they don’t have to worry about getting a pan or dish back to you. I keep a few simple supplies in my home for sharing meals, and it makes all the difference.
Think Creatively.
Sometimes, in a long line of casseroles, it is lovely to receive something unique in the meal line up. Think creatively along the lines of things like breakfast for dinner, ingredients for a well-rounded cheeseboard, or some other twist on typical dinner fare. Be judicious when changing it up, but don’t be afraid to think creatively.
Below are my favorite menus for gifting. Where possible, I have linked to recipes. I hope this list provides ideas and resources for you the next time you need to take a meal to someone!
Any Time Of Year…
Weeknight Bolognese
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Grilled Pork Tenderloin (I buy mine pre-marinated from Central Market)
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Garden Salad
Roast Chicken with Potatoes
Green Beans
Chocolate Sheet Cake
Meatloaf
Mashed Potatoes
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Spaghetti Pie
Garlic Bread
Spinach Salad
Ice Cream
Breakfast For Dinner…
Egg Casserole
Cinnamon Chip Scones
Greek Yogurt, Granola, Fresh Berries
OJ
Snack Food For Dinner…
Artichoke Dip
Guacamole
Roasted Tomato Salsa
Corn Dip
Multiple Pints of Ice Cream
In The Fall…
Beef Stew
Cornbread
Pecan Pie
In The Winter…
Chili
Fritos, Sour Cream, Cheddar Cheese
Brownies
In The Spring…
Lemon Chicken
Couscous
Tomato Bruschetta
Grilled Baguette
Homemade Ricotta
In The Summer…
Gazpacho
Grilled Shrimp
Pasta, Pesto, Pea Salad
Lemon Bars
For A Family With A Lot Of Children…
Chicken Tenders and Homemade Macaroni (for the kids)
Cheeseboard Supplies (for the adults)
Bottle of Champagne
Microwave Popcorn
Assorted Fun Candies
Leave a Reply