Mother’s Day is this Sunday and there are so many ways to celebrate. In the past we have posted about Mother’s Day Breakfast in Bed (or Brunch) Recipes and ideas for a Mother’s Day French Picnic.

This year, we are planning a old-fashioned dinner for the celebration. Whether you are gathering as a pod, eating al fresco (Looks like we are in for good weather!), or maintaining distance and dropping off a meal, this classic menu will be satisfying

The Cheese Plate
A cheese plate is an easy appetizer to throw together and with some simple rules of thumb, you can create one that is delicious and varied. Cheese plates can be artful, with lots of room for improvisation. Check out our guidelines on putting together a cheese plate.

Classic Roast Beef and Gravy
Here our my all time favorite recipe for roast beef from Cooks Country Magazine. It includes a mushroom gravy, if you’re in the mood. It is delicious with roasted potatoes and carrots.

Gam’s Sunday Dinner Spoonbread
This favorite, Southern-inspired family recipe has been enjoyed many times. It is one of those down-home recipes reminiscent of dinners at grandmother’s house. So good served warm with melted butter.

Green Beans with Pine Nut Vinaigrette
This recipe provides a sophisticate twist on a side of green beans. All you need is to grab a bunch of green beans, steam them, and dunk them in cold water to stop the cooking and keep them crunchy. Then, dry them off and spread them on a platter, scattered some sliced cherry tomatoes around, and topped them off with this tasty Pine Nut Vinaigrette.

Old Fashioned Chocolate Layer Cake
This classic chocolate cake is inspired by a recipe from America’s Test Kitchen. And, it comes out beautifully. Serve it up with some Vanilla Bean Ice Cream or whipped cream.

Blueberry Lavender Lemonade (Cocktail)
The blueberries add a fantastic color and the lavender creates floral overtones. We like to make the lemonade by the pitcher, and then add a shot of vodka to each glass. That way you can adjust the amount of vodka for the individual, and leave some lemonade for those who don’t consume. But, you can also stir in a cup of vodka to the pitcher before serving.