Mother's Day Brunch

Always falling on the second Sunday in May, Mother's Day is the perfect opportunity for mom to relish being in the spotlight for all the cooking she's done over the years. A springtime Sunday brunch full of reliable classics and delightful innovations is the perfect intergenerational feast to please grandmothers, aunts, mothers and children alike.

See also: Sunday Suppers, a tradition making a comeback.

An ideal brunch menu includes a balance of sweet and savory dishes, all of which can be easily modified to suit larger or smaller groups. Decorate the table with some springtime tulips, lilacs or daffodils, arranged in a wide-mouthed vase, as a centerpiece to the meal.

Whether you're hosting a potluck, preparing a buffet spread or looking for make-ahead dishes like quiche, muffins and lemon tart, these recipes will keep the whole family lingering around the table for hours to celebrate mom. Don't forget to take some family photos to commemorate the occasion.

Ginger-Champagne Cocktail by Arlen Gargagliano: Combining fresh-squeezed lemon and lime juice with ginger root and sparkling wine, this refreshing beverage is perfect for toasting mom.

Strawberry Tea Muffins by Esther Brody: These simple muffins are sweet as can be, especially with the strawberry surprise revealed upon first bite. Oat bran provides healthy fiber, vitamins and minerals, while the sliced almonds top it off with a crunch.

Delicious & Guiltless French Toast by Domenica Catelli: No brunch is complete without French toast, and this recipe is a show-stopper. It's topped with powdered sugar, ripe berries, cinnamon or a dollop of yogurt or whipped cream. It calls for whole grain bread, egg whites and orange juice to amp up the nutritional benefits without sacrificing any sweetness.

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