During my childhood, my dad spent half of each year serving in the Navy, and one of my most cherished memories from that time is attending church dinners with my mom and my three sisters. It was pure bliss.
My mother would catch up with her church friends while I indulged in sugar cookies, brownies, and bars. I mostly steered clear of the mystery casseroles but couldn’t resist a meaty lasagna or a layered dip—my plate was always piled high.
We also had family gatherings where everyone brought a dish. Those afternoons were filled with laughter, conversation, and endless feasting. Certain staples were non-negotiable: green bean casserole, gooey brownies, and, of course, onion dip paired with potato chips.
As an adult entering the workforce, the holiday season became a beacon of joy, signaling office potluck parties where everyone would contribute their favorite dish. The break room transformed into a delightful buffet, and we’d seize every opportunity to engage over some warm queso from a Crock-Pot.
I understand that potlucks aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. Many people hesitate to partake due to uncertainty about the food’s origin. Some only stick to what they brought or the store-bought items, fearing what lurks behind the culinary curtain. A survey from Scary Mommy revealed that while people may attend potlucks, they often only indulge in the dishes from those whose hygiene standards mirror their own. On the flip side, you have the hardcore potluck enthusiasts (like me) who dive into everything without a second thought.
Not only do potlucks create a festive atmosphere, but they also ease the burden on hosts. It’s liberating not to shoulder the entire meal preparation or the subsequent mountain of dishes. Guests can enjoy themselves and take back their own cookware to clean.
While some have reservations about food poisoning, it’s worth noting that the Department of Health reports significantly fewer cases linked to potlucks than to restaurants. So, the next time you eye that array of Pyrex dishes, remember that safety might be closer than you think.
For those who feel pressure to cook, I urge you: it’s perfectly acceptable to bring something from the store. And for the culinary enthusiasts, potlucks provide a fabulous stage to showcase your cooking prowess and perhaps even outshine your mother-in-law at family events.
Socializing over macaroni salad and deviled eggs fosters connections through shared dishes. Many of my favorite childhood recipes originated from potlucks, and I still make them for gatherings today.
Of course, we should always use common sense when it comes to food safety. If you’re responsible for preparing a dish and neglect basic hygiene, you should definitely take a permanent break from potlucks.
In summary, I adore potlucks and will continue to embrace them, even if it means risking an upset stomach (which hasn’t happened yet). If you’re not a fan, that just means more food for me! I relish the idea of hosting and attending these culinary extravaganzas until my last bite.
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