I have an obsession for creating the perfect meal plan. Particularly when I'm hosting friends and family. Food is big a part of my life; it brings me so much joy to cook an interesting new recipe, and brings it even more joy to eat said recipe. I often find myself asking myself "what would I eat for my last meal?" and spending way too much time deliberating on the answer.
For now, I'll stay in reality and compile my favourite recipes that I've made at camp (or the cottage, depending where you're from).
TIPS:
2 meals per day, maximum
I like to plan two formal meals per day for summer weekends when hosting a group. Typically, I do a late breakfast or brunch, light lunch snacks, and a dinner.
In most cases, it's too much work to prep and cook three full meals; as a host, you'll likely sacrifice you sun, swim and sauna time to get all the meals done on time.
Second, appetites are likely not as big as you think. The amount of times I made a packed meal plan and schedule, and everyone was too full from afternoon apps to eat dinner!
Take advantage of one-pot or one-BBQ meals
At my family's camp, we don't have a dishwater (in fact, we actually don't have running hot water and have to boil all water for dishes). I do myself a favour and limit the amount of dishes I use for cooking.
The BBQ is your friend. You, or whoever you assign to be your sous chef, can be outside, grilling and socializing at the same time. Plus, everything tastes better done on the grill!
Prep ahead
If you're able, prep sauces, vinaigrettes, garnishes, spreads, etc. ahead of time. Big time saver.
I love to prep pickled red onions, Bobby Flay's shallot relish, salsa, and even potato and pasta salads. In the case of those salad, the more time to marinate the better.
As for light lunches and snacks, you can never go wrong with guacamole, salsa & chips; a charcuterie board; or any leftovers from the night before paired with a fresh salad!
Bon appetit!
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