Ideas for food that can be prepared in advance

I'm having people round for supper next week, and the way things have worked out I am out for most of that day at a meeting, so won't be able to spend time preparing in the evening - I'll have just enough time when I get in to set the table and run a hoover round.

I can free up plenty of time the day before, though, so I'm looking for ideas of things that can be pre-prepared and heated successfully on the night. It's friends I've known for years, so whatever I settle on doesn't have to be too formal. I'm thinking probably something in one pot, but I'd rather not have pasta.

There are no special diets to cater for, but if there are veggie-suitable leftovers my husband could eat them the next day. That is not a primary consideration though - just a bonus .

Does anyone have a tried and tested suggestion, please? I'm doing my shopping order tomorrow, so can order anything I need then.