There’s something about the smell of fresh coffee, sizzling bacon and warm pastries that makes brunch feel like a little celebration. Whether it’s the lazy luxury of a weekend morning or the joyful gathering of friends and family around the table, brunch is more than just a meal. It’s an experience that brings people together over delicious food and easygoing conversation. As spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to refresh your brunch game with simple tips, must-have dishes and a few chef-approved tricks to make hosting a breeze. 

A memorable brunch is equal parts ease and intention, blending sweet and savory flavors with fresh, seasonal ingredients. A perfectly balanced menu starts with a satisfying egg dish, whether it’s a creamy quiche, a fluffy frittata or a simple scramble. Complementing those indulgent bites, like golden pancakes or fruit-stuffed pastries, are bright, seasonal produce for freshness and a savory side, such as crispy bacon, delicate smoked salmon or perfectly roasted potatoes. No brunch is complete without a signature drink, like freshly squeezed juice or a light, bubbly spritzer to tie it all together. 

Remember, hosting a great brunch doesn’t have to be stressful! The key is preparation. Plan ahead by prepping ingredients the night before, mixing batters in advance and setting the table early. Keeping the menu simple ensures you can enjoy the gathering, rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Batch cooking, like baking eggs or baking bacon on sheet trays, helps serve a crowd with ease. 

Presentation also plays a role in elevating the experience. Using a mix of textures in your dishes — such as pairing crisp, buttery toast with creamy eggs or a crispy fruit salad with a soft pastry — keeps each bite exciting. Keep drinks chilled by pre-freezing fruit or herbs in ice cubes for a refreshing and decorative touch. Create an inviting buffet display by arranging dishes at different heights using cake stands or wooden boards. 

One simple but often overlooked trick is warming your plates before serving. A warm plate keeps food at the perfect temperature longer, ensuring that delicate items like eggs and pancakes stay fresh and appealing. Simply place your plates in a low oven (about 170°F), turn off and let sit for 5-10 minutes before plating your dishes. Using colorful napkins, fresh flowers and thoughtfully arranged platters makes any brunch feel special. 

If you love brunch as much as I do, don’t miss LLCC’s upcoming brunch classes! Join us for our hands-on Mother’s Day Brunch class on May 10 (www.llcc.edu/culinary under Special Night Out). It is a chance to spoil the mom in your life with a fun-filled morning of creating delicious savory and sweet treats that will make any brunch special, all while sipping on a delightful, sweet drink. This hands-on class is the perfect way to celebrate and share quality time with loved ones. Our Brunch Basics College for Kids camp being held in Jacksonville this summer is also a great opportunity for young chefs to learn the joys of brunch (www.llcc.edu/summer-cfk). Whether you’re looking to elevate your hosting skills or introduce young cooks to the art of brunch, these events are a perfect way to celebrate good food and great company.  

Asparagus and goat cheese quiche

This light, flavorful quiche is a perfect centerpiece for any brunch table.  

Ingredients

• 1 premade pie crust (or homemade if you prefer
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives or dill) 

Instructions 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
2. Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 1 minute, and then transfer to ice water to preserve color.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, pepper and nutmeg.
4. Layer asparagus and goat cheese in the crust. Pour egg mixture over the top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the center is set and slightly golden.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

About

Lincoln Land Community College offers credit programs in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management and Baking/Pastry, and non-credit cooking and food classes through LLCC Community Education.

Cooking or food questions? Email epicuriosity101@llcc.edu.