Let's Do Lunch

On the third Monday of each month, a congenial group of friends gathers for lunch in Alexandria, Virginia. Ginger Arnold, Anita Guthrie, Betty Heilig, Gayle Shaw, Amy Southard, and Ann Vernon―The Southern Living Lunch Bunch as they call themselves―choose their recipes from the pages of our magazine.

Let's Do Lunch

We joined them for a holiday celebration where they shared some of their own dishes combined with favorites from past issues. Citrus Salad is a bright complement to creamy Ragoût of Mushrooms With Creamy Polenta, while Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts provides a sweet-and-salty before-lunch nibble. Let these outstanding recipes, along with the warmth and laughter of these friends, resonate with you and your family.

Recipe Links:
• Citrus Salad
• Orange Vinaigrette
• Ragoût of Mushrooms With Creamy Polenta
• Creamy Polenta
• Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Let's Do Lunch

Ragoût of Mushrooms With Creamy Polenta is a hearty meatless main course. Don’t let polenta scare you―it’s just the Italian version of grits.

Recipe Links:
• Ragoût of Mushrooms With Creamy Polenta
• Creamy Polenta
• Quick Yeast Rolls

Let's Do Lunch

Brandy Slush is a great party-starter any time of the year.

Recipe Link:
• Brandy Slush

Let's Do Lunch

Make-ahead Cheesecake Squares deliver rich, chocolate-coffee flavor and a truffle-like texture.

Recipe Links:
• Cheesecake Squares
• Chocolate Crust

"Let's Do Lunch" is from the November 2008 issue of Southern Living.