Whether you’re celebrating Easter, Mother’s Day, graduation, a wedding or simply enjoying a leisurely meal on the weekend or holidays, brunch is a favorite menu item for many. This buffet style meal straddles the line between breakfast and lunch and is often accompanied by cocktails, coffee, tea and other beverages. Depending on the time of year, brunch can also include seasonal ingredients.

When planning your brunch menu, choose a few dishes that can be prepared ahead of time. This will help you save time on the day of your brunch and allows guests to sample a variety of items. Most casseroles and French toast recipes can be baked the night before or even frozen and reheated. Quiche and other pastry based dishes can be made the day of as well.

Since brunch is a mix of both breakfast and lunch, it’s a good idea to offer both savory and sweet options. Egg dishes are always popular and can be prepared in a variety of ways, from scrambled to hard-boiled. Casseroles with meat, potatoes or vegetables are a great savory option that can be reheated. Other savory options might include a turkey or beef roast, soupy stews or sandwiches.

A brunch menu wouldn’t be complete without dessert. A simple coffee cake or a batch of cupcakes can be an easy and delicious way to end the meal. If you’re hosting a crowd, consider making several desserts so there’s something for everyone.

When it comes to brunch drinks, a mimosa is a classic that goes perfectly with any type of food. Champagne and orange juice pair nicely, creating a drink that’s both refreshing and fruity. If you’re not a fan of champagne, try a bloody mary or a vodka + orange juice cocktail instead.