I Do Love a Good Potluck!

Fourth of July is upon us. Friends, family and FEASTING! Bring on the potluck!

Have you ever wondered where the term potluck came from? It seems a strange name a meal where people gather and food is shared. The orginal term, a pot of luck, was used to descibe what would be served to an unexpected or an uninvited guest. They got what they got.

I am so glad that down through the ages, the word has taken on a new meaning. Now it has become a way of offering hospitality away from home. No longer a ‘you get what you’ get meal. Extraordinary recipes are carried in covered dishes to gatherings. There may even be a bit of friendly completion going on amongst the cooks. Yumminess abounds. I think LUCK does come to mind when sampling the best my friends’ kitchens have to offer.

carrot saladAs I considered what I might bring to the TWO potlucks I have been invited to (lucky me), I was reminded of a Marinated Carrot Salad that was at every gathering when I was a kid. So, I stirred some up this week to see if it was as good as I remember. It was and it will be coming to the gatherings with me. I can’t wait to see what else shows up. Between my friends and I, a delectable feast is sure to happen.

“We all eat, and it would be a sad waste of opportunity to eat badly.”

Anna Thomas


There are many recipes out there for this salad. I go for a very easy combination that has a great taste.

Marinated Carrot Salad

  • 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 1 can tomato soup
  • 1/2 vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • salt and pepper to taste
  1. Steam sliced carrots to a crisp tender.
  2. In bowl whisk together soup, oil, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper.
  3. Add steamed carrots, bell pepper and onion.
  4. Cover and chill for several hours.

Enjoy! So tell me, what are you taking to your gathering?

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