The Wonderful World of Potlucks

There are few things that college students love more than free food.  And today dear readers, I’m going to inform you about one of the best ways to get delicious and free food: go to, or host, a potluck. 

At some point in your college career, you will be invited to a potluck and it will probably change your life.  For those who have never experienced one of these gatherings, a potluck is when a group of people comes together and each person brings a small dish to share with the group.  Some people bring whatever is left over in their fridge (a postage stamp sized piece of cheese, half a container of salsa, etc.) while others cook flavorful dishes just for the occasion (butternut squash soup, pesto pasta, etc.).  At a potluck, all you really need to do is bring some type of food or drink and you’re entitled to sample everything that others have brought. 

If you’re thinking about hosting a potluck, try inviting a variety of people-your close friends, people you haven’t seen in a few months, and that random kid who you sit next to in math class.  You’ll be able to make new friends and catch up with old ones in a relaxed environment.

Potlucks can also be a fun place to try out new recipes for a specific season or holiday.  If you’re going to a potluck in the fall, instead of bringing store bought guacamole and chips, try making something a little more adventurous-maybe roasted root vegetables, pumpkin muffins, or mulled apple cider. 

Also, when choosing what to make, be sure that you are mindful of the people who will be eating your food.  If you are going to a potluck with mostly vegetarians, then making braised beef may not go over so well. 

There you have it, potlucks in a nutshell.  What recipes are you all dying to try this fall season?