Whether you’re hosting house guests over the holidays or want to invite family and friends over for a more casual meal, these complete brunch menu ideas cater to just about any crowd.
The Festive Brunch
Start everyone off with Clementine-Ginger Punch, a zippy beverage thanks to thin ginger slices and fresh lime juice. Meanwhile, have Compliments Bacon cooking in the oven as you finish off fresh Gingerbread Waffles — made with warming cinnamon and ginger spices. Place a few different waffle toppings on the table to make brunch extra fun for everyone: Sensations by Compliments Maple Syrup, sliced bananas, dulce de leche, and fresh berries. You can also whip up a simple fruit compote, made from Compliments Frozen Fruit warmed up in a saucepan with maple syrup and a splash of orange juice to taste.
The Classic Brunch
There’s a little something for everyone with this delicious menu. With a piece of Apple-Pecan & Cinnamon Pull-Apart Loaf in their tummies, kids can run off and play while moms and dads can enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee before sitting down to the main event. This completely make-ahead and vegetarian Mushroom, Spinach & Goat Cheese Strata is loaded with savoury veggies and cheese that bakes up warm and bubbly in the oven. Serve with a side of peameal bacon or keep it meat-free with some endive points topped with orange segments, shaved fennel and a drizzle of olive oil.
The City Brunch
Show off your culinary skills with some popular dishes found in trendy bistros that are just as easy to pull off as bacon and eggs. Whet everyone’s appetite with our Greens, Blueberry & Fruit Smoothie made in the blender with kale, avocado, banana and Compliments Frozen Fruits. While they’re sipping away you can fry up Bacon & Fig Grilled Cheeses — savoury sandwiches made from cinnamon raisin bread, gooey raclette cheese, salty bacon, and a sweet layer of fig spread. Round out this filling dish with a few slices of crunchy Asian pear on the side.
The Gluten-Free Brunch
Your guests don’t even have to know that you’re catering to someone with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance when these satisfying dishes are served up. Gluten-Free Caramelized Onion & Cheddar Cornbread starts everyone off on a savoury note while you pour coffee and juice. With the crust baked in advance, this Gluten-Free Spinach Tart topped with zucchini, goat cheese and prosciutto takes just 20 minutes to set in the oven. Serve it piping hot with a green salad topped with a simple dressing of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Note: Anyone diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, or those wishing to avoid gluten-containing products, should be careful to always verify the gluten-free status of a product by checking the label and by consulting the Pocket Dictionary – Acceptability of Foods & Food Ingredients for the Gluten-Free Diet, 2012 edition, Canadian Celiac Association.
