Depending on where you are from and how you grew up weekending, the concept of Sunday lunch may already be a staple in your household - or it may be a tradition you want to implement. Either way, hosting a consistent lunch on Sunday with a set or semi-set guestlist is a fantastic chance to build in time with family and friends to catch up and spend some quality time together. Hosting the perfect Sunday lunch at home can be a source of joy or a complete stressor; with a bit of planning and imagination you can create a memorable experience for your guests - and a stress-free time for you. Here's how to host the perfect Sunday lunch at home.
1. Plan Your Menu
This one goes without saying, right? The base of a perfect Sunday lunch is always going to be a killer menu. Think traditional British style with a big hunk of beef or chicken; a veggie spread; a themed weekend; or 'bounty of the sea' vibe. Whichever adventure you choose, make sure to ask your guests ahead of time about their dietary requirements - you'll never make that mistake twice. I may or may not be speaking from experience here - oops - having done tons of research, only to include a single gluten-filled ingredient in my main … for a dinner with 2 celiacs. SMH.
For menu planning, start with a main course that's filling and delicious. This doesn't have to be a 5-star affair; a classic roast chicken, beef or lamb is a great centerpiece and can be super cost effective to feed a group. If you prefer a plant-based option, go for a nut roast or a stuffed butternut squash. Add some side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green beans and a fresh salad. Don't forget to include some sauces and gravies to add extra flavor options - people love gravy. This is also a lesson I've learned the hard way over the years. People like gravy and for everything that is holy, serve bread. Even if it's gluten free or keto. Something approximating bread will be appreciated.
For dessert choose something that can be prepared in advance so you can spend more time with your guests. Traditional desserts like apple pie, chocolate cake or a fruit crumble are always winners. If you want to offer something lighter go for a selection of cheeses with fruits and nuts.
Mains Ideas
Mexican Flag Vegan Tacos
(Nearly) Weeknight Wellington
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Sides Ideas
Roasted Potato Salad with Miso Tahini Dressing
Harvest Cauliflower Pilaf
Massaged Kale & Pomegranate Salad
Desserts Ideas
Less Sweet Pumpkin Oat Bread
Mango Coconut Ice Cream
Black Salt & Whiskey Chocolate Pot De Creme
2. Set the Scene
The atmosphere is key to a successful Sunday lunch. You can go the 'extra' route with matching best china, the homey chic mismatched plate route, opt for all-white tableware, go mess-free with disposable tableware or lean in to your theme. A well dressed table adds to the occasion and makes your guests feel like they're special.
Think about the seating arrangement so everyone has a comfortable and sociable experience. Place settings should be thoughtful and practical so guests can chat easily. Add a centerpiece to your table - something nice but so tall that guests can't converse over it - a simple vase of fresh flowers, a bowl of seasonal fruits or a selection of candles create a simple warm and cozy feel.
Background music can also help with the atmosphere. Choose a playlist that fits the mood you want to create, whether it's soft jazz, classical music or a mix of your favorite tunes. Keep the volume low enough for conversation. My personal favorite is Postmodern Jukebox, which I either play on YouTube or loop a screensaver on the TV with PMJ played through speakers. I'm also a huge fan of lighting and find in my own home with my existing decor scheme, the Scandi Home scene from the Philips Hue app makes for nice lighting I don't have to fiddle with too much - or I'll be fiddling with lighting scenes for 3 days instead of planning my menu and shopping.
3. Prepare in Advance
Preparation is the key to a stress free Sunday lunch. Plan your menu well in advance and make a detailed shopping list so you have all the ingredients you need. Where possible prepare dishes in advance. Many side dishes, desserts and even some main courses can be made the day before and just reheated on the day of the lunch.
The night before your lunch, pull all your table setting elements, dishes, utensils and other essentials; making sure they are all clean and ready to go. Do as much as you can in advance so you can enjoy the company of your guests and avoid the last minute rush. I like to put my tablescape out the night before, pulling the chairs aside so the pup doesn't find himself on the table. At my house, chairs get pushed in minutes before guests are set to arrive.
4. Offer a Choice of Drinks
A good choice of drinks can add to the experience. Offer a selection of drinks to suit all tastes. For a classic and easy touch, serve a welcome drink like a glass of chilled Prosecco or a refreshing mocktail. I love a themed cocktail prepped in a batch in a glass beverage dispenser with a stack of that good old American staple - the Red Solo Cup - alongside the bar setup. I have a dedicated bucket for ice, and lay out a selection of alcohols for a 'choose your own adventure' cocktail experience. The mix in the big jar is always a mocktail and can be served as-is.
During the meal, I like to switch to something simpler: red and white wine, beer and an array of non-alcoholic drinks. I usually have a batch of lemonade in the fridge for my non-imbibing guests, and keep a few soft drinks and bottles of sparkling water on hand. After the meal consider offering coffee, tea or a digestif to go with dessert and encourage lingering conversations. I stock espresso, decaf, caffeine-free teas and at least one good after-dinner liqueur.
5. Involve Your Guests
However you structure your event, the key to a successful Sunday lunch is to make your guests feel welcome and involved. Greet each guest as they arrive and take the time to introduce those who don't know each other. Start conversations with light topics and share interesting stories or news. Conversation cards - even if you think your guests will find them lame - are actually quite helpful for a crowd that doesn't know each other yet.
If you have children attending provide activities to keep them occupied. Simple games, coloring books or a small play area will keep the little ones happy and the adults can relax and enjoy the meal.
6. Timing is Everything
Timing is key to a successful Sunday lunch. Serve the meal at a reasonable hour so guests can have a leisurely afternoon. 1 or 2 PM is a good time, that way guests have time to arrive, mingle and settle in before the meal. I wouldn't push mealtime past 2:30, and would aim to wrap the food up within 2 hours. After-after dinner light snacks are great to have on hand for stragglers that stay until near dinnertime.
Plan your courses so the meal flows smoothly. Allow enough time for each course to be enjoyed without feeling rushed. It's a good idea to have a buffer between courses for any unexpected delays.
7. Consider Putting on Some Sports
If you have sports fans among your guests - where I live, football (aka soccer) and F1 racing are big. Knowing where to watch f1 is a great way to add to the entertainment of your gathering if your guests so desire. F1 races can be streamed through services like ESPN, F1 TV and other streaming platforms. Make sure your TV or streaming setup is ready in advance so those interested can watch the race while others continue to chat. Pro tip: boxing or UFC PPV nights are also a good time to host a dinner, and finger foods are super easy to make and quick to pass around while the fights are on.
8. Relax
Finally, remember to relax! Hosting a Sunday lunch is as much about you as it is about your guests. Take time to sit down, enjoy the food and have meaningful conversations. Don't worry too much about perfection, the warmth and hospitality will be what your guests remember most.
Hosting a Sunday lunch at home is all about planning, preparation and atmosphere. By focusing on these you can create a special and enjoyable experience for your family and friends, one they will treasure and look forward to again.
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