Quick and Easy Make-Ahead Recipe Ideas for Your Book Club Gathering

[newtopamperedchef]

I need help! I belong to a book club, and Friday night is my first time "hosting", so I need to bring the food. I would love to bring some PC recipes as this is sort of a new group and could lead to new contacts. The problem is, I need recipes I can prepare ahead of time (like the night before), will travel well and don't need to be hot, unless they just need a quick zap in the microwave. I will be taking everything about an hour to another book club member's house and will definitely be using my products to present and serve. The other members seem to bring a couple savory and a couple sweet snacks. Any ideas?

 

[Chef Kearns]

What book did ya'll read? I started a book club and I always try to prepare something inspired by the book.

 

[newtopamperedchef]

We read The Help, by Kathryn Stockett and I'm thinking about making mini Caramel Cakes and Chocolate Pies in the mini muffin pan - but I'm having a harder time trying to decide what kind of savory snacks to make. I know I'm making this more difficult than it has to be.

 

[cheflorraine]

If you have a trifle bowl, a trifle is easy to make ahead of time and yummy to eat!
The artichoke-bacon bites in the Season's best are really good - you could just make the filling as a dip and put it in the baker, heat in the microwave before serving and serve with chips.
If you have the Cool & Serve you could do cut up veggies with a dip on one side and chips on the other (I'm not sure how well cut-up fruit would keep overnight... just depends on what it is).
My suggestion overall would be to keep the food simple and focus on what you want to serve it in (use the Simple Additions Small Bowls in the Caddy for some dips).
Have fun!

 

[Amanda Goode]

Hi there! I completely understand your dilemma and I'm here to help. As a Pampered Chef consultant, I have plenty of delicious and easy recipes that will be perfect for your book club gathering. Here are a few ideas that I think will fit your requirements:- For a savory option, you could make our Mini Spinach and Feta Quiches. They can be prepared ahead of time and will travel well. Plus, they can be served at room temperature or warmed up in the microwave.
- Another great savory option is our Mediterranean Layered Dip. It's a crowd-pleaser and can be made the night before. Just assemble it in a travel-friendly container and it will be ready to go.
- If you want to bring a sweet treat, our Lemon Blueberry Trifle is a great choice. It can be assembled the night before and will look beautiful in our Trifle Bowl. Plus, it's easy to transport and serve.
- Our Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip is another sweet option that can be made ahead of time. Serve it with some fresh fruit or graham crackers for a delicious and easy dessert.
- Lastly, our Veggie Pizza Squares would be a great addition to your spread. You can make them the night before and they are perfect for serving at room temperature. Plus, they can be easily transported in our Rectangular Baker.I hope these ideas help and I'm sure your book club members will be impressed with your Pampered Chef creations. Don't forget to use your products to present and serve the food - it will definitely make a great impression. Have a great time at your book club gathering!