Hosting Sunday lunch for the family can be fun and entertaining – as well as a little intimidating or stressful! – so here are three easy ways to elevate your Sunday luncheon all while making sure the hosting is as fun and stress-free as possible.
1. Let the experts do it for you
You really don’t want to end up slaving in the kitchen while all the “Sunday funday” fun is being had without you. So firstly, prep is key, and by prep we mean make sure to let the experts do it all for you! McCain’s new Roast Vegetable Mix range is just perfect for a fab Sunday lunch with the fam. They each come with a neat little flavoursome glaze sachet, which means you’ll have gourmet veggies made super fast. With McCain, vegetables go from your freezer to your table in no time at all without you having to break a sweat! Serving up a variety of tasty, nutrient-packed veggies that compliment just about any Sunday roast has never been so hassle-free and easy.
Remember there is no such thing as being over-prepared when hosting is involved – cook everything you can before the guests arrive and be aware of any family members’ food allergies or preferences beforehand as this will prevent you having to deal with a crisis when the food is read to be served.
READ: SA chefs share tips for cooking the perfect roast chicken
2. Set the mood
Take some time to set the table ahead of your guests’ arrival. You can pick a theme for the table and decor, but whatever you do, keep it fun and inviting. Family lunches should be relaxed and welcoming!
Make sure there is a water pitcher filled with mint-, lemon- or fruit-infused ice water, as well as glasses, so your guests can help themselves to water when they’re in need of a little H2O hydration. Set the table with the cutlery and crockery you’ll need for a successful luncheon, but try to avoid cluttering the table – you can always clear and reset between courses. Always place salt and pepper shakers on the table as this will save you time later!
READ: Easy recipes to throw a 3-course Mediterranean-inspired family lunch
Some notes on ambiance and overall feel: flowers make for a great addition and centerpiece, but make sure the arrangement isn’t “larger than life” as this may obstruct guests from talking to each other at the table. Candles help set a tranquil, welcoming ambiance, but make sure to light them as your family start to arrive – unlit candles for table decor are about as useful as a glass hammer!
3. The ultimate welcome
Lastly, make sure you have a welcome drink chilled and at the ready for when the fam arrives – as summer approaches your guests are bound to arrive parched, and nothing quite hits the spot like an ice-cold beverage on a hot summer’s day. Keep your guests in mind when planning the welcome drink, and make sure to have alcohol-free beverage options available as well. You can never go wrong with a big ice-filled container or cooler box for quick, chilled, “help-yourself” access once the welcome drink has been served.
READ: 4 low-calorie cocktails to celebrate with
