Dear Kelley,

My manager at work had a last-minute idea to have a holiday potluck at work … tomorrow! I have no idea what to make/bring, and I don’t have much time to prepare anything. I’m a pretty good cook and I have a tendency to go overboard for a potluck trying to impress everyone with my skills (ahem, slow cooked ribs helloo). I don’t what to kill myself but I also don’t want to see any leftovers in my dish at the end of the day! Can you recommend anything for me to make? Or should I swallow my pride and just pick up something … (cringe) … store-bought?

I’m not crazy about potlucks. I think if you’re going to have a party, buy some dang food. But ok, it happens.

The biggest thing to think about with a potluck is how will it hold up to (probably) not being able to re-heat it. One nice idea is roasted Brussels sprouts, which can be dotted with goat cheese, some pomegranate seeds, and a drizzle of reduced balsamic vinegar. It will look festive and fancy, and still taste good at room temp.

A fresh fruit salad can be nice as well, since a lot of potluck dishes can be very heavy. You can fancy it up with some chopped mint, and garnish with a few sprigs on top.

Finally, a nice cheese and charcuterie board with some fresh crusty bread is a nice choice. Add some nuts or olives and a nice fig spread or some dried fruits, to elevate it.

Whatever you make, some fresh herbs or fruits for garnish will zhush it up and preserve your reputation.

XOXO

Kelley