Brunch – the delightful amalgamation of breakfast and lunch – is a time-honoured tradition cherished by many. It's an occasion where friends and family gather to savour a delectable spread, sip on refreshing beverages, and bask in each other's company. But hosting brunch doesn’t need to be a daunting task! With a few simple tips and tasty recipes up your sleeve, you can effortlessly host a memorable brunch for your guests.  

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

First things first, set the mood for your brunch gathering by creating an inviting atmosphere. A welcoming ambiance will instantly put your guests at ease and set the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable brunch experience. Here's a quick step-by-step guide on how to set the scene for your next brunch at home:

1. Plan Your Space: Before adding decorations, consider the layout of your space. Determine where you'll set up the food and beverage stations, as well as seating arrangements for your guests. Ensure there's ample space for movement and mingling. Arrange seating areas that encourage conversation and relaxation. Have fun mixing and matching chairs, benches, and cushions for a cozy yet eclectic look. Add throw blankets or pillows for extra comfort and style. Consider incorporating outdoor seating options if weather permits, allowing guests to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. 
2. Set the Table: Prepare your dining table with care, ensuring it's both functional and visually appealing. Use a tablecloth or table runner as a base and layer with placemats or chargers for added texture. Place settings should include plates, utensils, napkins, and glassware arranged neatly. Don't forget to add a personal touch with place cards or handwritten menus. Having a theme or colour scheme can tie your décor together and add cohesion to the space. Whether it's a rustic farmhouse theme, a vibrant spring palette, or a minimalist monochrome scheme, choose elements that reflect your personal style and the vibe you wish to create.
3. Add Freshness: Fresh flowers and greenery instantly breathe life into any space and add a touch of elegance to your brunch setup. Arrange floral centerpieces in vases or mason jars and scatter greenery along tables or countertops for a natural, inviting feel. Consider incorporating seasonal blooms for an extra pop of colour and freshness. If florals and greenery aren’t your thing, opt for other decorative pieces like tall taper candles, colourful vases, or beautiful bowls of fruit. Even providing a selection of condiments and sauces or offering specialty beverages and herbal teas are thoughtful touches that will leave a lasting impression.

By following these simple steps and incorporating your own creative flair, you can effortlessly create a welcoming and stylish setting for hosting an easy brunch. So, now that your friends and family are comfortable, let’s chat on delicious food and cocktails recipes to add to your menu!

Keep the Menu Simple

When it comes to planning the menu for your brunch, simplicity is key. Opt for dishes that are easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Serve up a combination of sweet and savoury options, including a mix of homemade treats and store-bought delights to save time without compromising on flavour.  

If you’re in search of something savoury and simple, egg bites are a perfect choice! They are portable, customizable, and oh-so-delicious. Packed with cheesy goodness and crispy hash browns, they're sure to be a hit with your brunch crowd.

Play around with this recipe by incorporating different veggies, like peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Add cooked bacon or sausages for your meat-loving guests. We like to pair ours alongside a crisp and chilled glass of sparkling wine, like Saintly the good sparkling – with notes of citrus, peach, and pear. 

Hash Brown Egg Bites  

Ingredients: 

• 1 package (20 oz.) of pre-shredded hash browns  
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese 
• 8 large eggs 
• 2 tbsp milk  
• 4 slices of cooked bacon  
• ¼ paprika  
• Fresh chives to garnish (optional) 

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease muffin tin cups with butter.
2. Combine hash browns, cheese, and bacon in a bowl.
3. Divide mixture into muffin tin cups.
4. Whisk eggs together in a bowl, then add milk, salt, and pepper. Pour over hash brown mixture.
5. Bake in oven for 15 - 20 minutes or until eggs are set.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then remove, garnish, and enjoy!

Showcase Seasonal Flavours

Make the most of seasonal produce by incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into your brunch spread. These Grilled Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus & Cantaloupe are a wonderful combination of sweet, salty, and juicy flavour.  

With just a handful of ingredients, they won’t weigh down your shopping list and take less-than-30-minutes to make! 

Grilled Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus & Cantaloupe 

Ingredients: ​ 

• 2 bunches of asparagus ​ 
• 1 cantaloupe ​ 
• Prosciutto​

Steps:

1. Cut the ends of the asparagus and drizzle with olive oil and salt and pepper to season.
2. Heat the grill over medium-high heat until it reaches about 400 degrees. Grill asparagus for 2-3 minutes per side until tender.
3. Cut cantaloupe into wedges (about 12 - 16) removing the skin and seeds.
4. Slice each piece of prosciutto in half lengthwise. Wrap 2-3 half pieces around cantaloupe wedge and grilled asparagus, bundling together.

Offer Light & Refreshing Salads

Watermelon-Feta Salad ​

Ingredients: ​ 

•  1 ½ cups diced seedless watermelon​ 
•  ¾ cup diced cucumber ​ 
•  ¾ cup diced grape tomatoes​ 
•  ¼ cup diced red onion ​ 
•  ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese​ 
•  ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley​

Salad Dressing​ 

Ingredients:

•  3 tbsp fresh lemon juice​ 
•  3 tbsp olive oil​ 
•  ½ tsp pepper​ 
•  ¾ tsp salt​

Steps:

1. For the salad dressing, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Chop ingredients for salad and add into separate bowl.
3. Sprinkle feta, pour dressing over, gently toss together, and enjoy! 

Serve a Bubbly Cocktail

No brunch is complete without a satisfying cocktail! For a refreshing twist on the classic French 75, try this Canadian-inspired version made with sparkling rosé instead of Champagne. The result is a fun and flirty cocktail that’s deliciously fruity and zesty. Using just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this bubbly concoction adds a sophisticated touch. 

Sparkling Rosé French 75

Ingredients:

• 3 oz sparkling rosé  
• 1 oz gin  
• 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice  
• ½ oz simple syrup 
• Lemon twist to garnish

Steps:

1. Add ice, gin or vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
2. Strain mixture into a flute glass, then top with sparkling rosé.
3. Garnish with a lemon twist and enjoy! 

Sparkling Pear Mimosa

Ever try an upside-down cocktail before? Now’s your chance! This Sparkling Pear Mimosa, featuring Saintly the good sparkling mini, combines delicious taste with stunning presentation. You can easily customize your creation with any juice, nectar, or purée, from sweet peach or citrusy orange to tropical mango-pineapple. In three steps, you can recreate this showstopping recipe at home. 

Ingredients:

• Saintly the good sparkling mini 
• 1 cup pear nectar 
• Dried blood orange slices 
• Ice

Steps:

1. Add pear nectar and ice to a wine glass.
2. Garnish with dried blood orange slices (optional).
3. Open the sparkling mini. Tilt your wine glass and slowly pour while lowering the bottle and gently flip upside down into the glass.
4. The bottle should be resting on an angle against the inside of the glass. Enjoy!  

In addition to your bubbly cocktail, be sure to offer a variety of beverages to suit all tastes. Freshly brewed coffee, assorted teas, and a selection of juices are always popular choices. And for those who prefer something non-alcoholic, a refreshing fruit-infused water or sparkling lemonade is sure to hit the spot. 

Elevate Your Brunch with Sparkling Wines from Wine Rack

From creating a welcoming atmosphere, showcasing delicious fare, and infusing personal touches, you'll be well on your way to hosting an effortless and memorable brunch for family and friends. And when it comes to selecting the perfect sparkling wines to complement your brunch menu, Wine Rack has you covered! 

With over 160 locations, Wine Rack offers convenience and accessibility. Our team of local wine experts are ready to provide in-store assistance and recommendations, ensuring you find the ideal pairing for your meal. Along with an easy shopping experience, Wine Rack has limited time offers to save you money. You can shop our wide range of quality and award-winning wines at an affordable price, in-store and online with wine delivery available. 

As your destination for all things wine, you can find the perfect bubbly to elevate your next brunch at Wine Rack. So, gather your nearest and dearest, raise a glass to good company and great food, and let the brunch festivities begin. Cheers!