10 Recipes for Your Holiday Potlucks

As the holidays approach, potluck feasts are a popular choice for many. If you’ve been invited to attend (and therefore cook a dish), it’s an opportunity to either introduce something new or treat nostalgic guests with a classic. Here are 10 recipes that are delicious and easy to carry.

1. Sushi Sandwich Loaf (Salmon Gravlax Sandwich Loaf)

Double the pleasure for your guests by opting for a recipe that combines two holiday favourites: the sandwich loaf and salmon gravlax. This sushi-inspired version includes cream cheese, avocado purée and cucumbers, and can be made up to three days before your event.

2. Potato Salad

If there’s one dish that never goes out of style, it’s potato salad. Make it a few hours in advance, as it will taste even better after resting in the refrigerator, since it gives the potatoes time to soak up the flavours of the dressing.

3. Grandma’s Meatloaf-Stuffed Buns

Dive into your childhood memories with this loaded bun recipe. In this version, the buns are filled with mashed potatoes and slices of meatloaf reminiscent of the kind grandma used to make!

4. Liver Paté Wonton Bites

These appetizers, made from wonton sheets shaped into cups, are quick to make and require few ingredients. Just before serving, fill each wonton with a dollop of liver paté and add red pepper compote for a festive touch.

5. Pomegranate, Fennel and Orange Salad

Elevate your salad game with this recipe that includes orange segments, a fennel bulb and pomegranate seeds. Mix the ingredients of this colourful and refreshing dish 15 minutes before serving to give the flavours time to meld together.

6. Raw Veggie Dip Duo

Practical and sure to please, the raw veggie platter holds a special place in any buffet. It’s an ideal option to gather everyone, hassle-free. Pair the vegetables with these two creamy dips: a sour-cream-based onion dip, and another with herbs and cream cheese.

7. Orange and Ginger Punch

Looking for a festive cocktail with a kick? This punch is made with orange juice, rum and vodka, as well as enhanced with a ginger syrup. Pro tip: Serve the drink in a large bowl filled with ice made from orange juice rather than water, to keep it from diluting the punch.

8. Chocolate Yule Log

A festive yule log is a must for any dessert table, and this chocolate version is just irresistible. Prepare the whipped cream filling the day before and allow it 12 hours to chill. Prepare the ganache as well to help lighten your load the following day.

9. Glazed Raspberry Terrine

This simple frozen dessert can be made up to two weeks before the big day. The recipe includes raspberries, cream, almonds and brandy, and it freezes well. For best results, serve the terrine on a pre-chilled dish.

10. Panettone Trifle

Made up of layers of fruit in syrup, cream and slices of panettone, this trifle is a wonderful way to impress your guests as well as to steer away from the usual yule log cake. You can prepare this no-bake holiday dessert on the same day.