Cocktail Party Menu
A cocktail party is the perfect opportunity for you to entertain, impress your guests, and have a great time all in one fabulous event. Before you start sending out the invitations just yet, why not take a few moments to see what is required to assure things go just right.
It’s hard not to get excited about an event that calls for everyone’s favorite cocktail party treat - hors d¢ oeuvres. But what else should make it on to the menu? Here’s a guide that will help point you in the right direction.
So what’s on the Menu?
- Seafood
- Meats & poultry
- Cheese & other dairy products
- Crackers and breads
- A variety of dips
- Some sweets
Variety – Truly the Spice of Life
- Offer a selection of hot and cold hors d’oeuvres
- Have a minimum of 3-5 different hors d’oeuvres out
- Estimate that you’ll need about 6 hors d'oeuvres per person, per hour
7 Helpful Tips
- If one food is harder to prepare than another then simply make less of one and more of another
- Cheese spreads and dips are a big hit and are usually less of a hassle to prepare and serve
- It’s always better to overestimate than underestimate the amount of food required
- Simple black or white platters showcase the foods best
- For platter decorations simply dig through your pantry for dried beans, pastas, or a snack type food that can be arranged decoratively under or around the hors d’oeuvres.
- Many platters can be garnished with fruit slices or herb to really dress it up
- Place napkins on the serving plates to prevent food from sliding around
It’s often recommended that you limit a cocktail party to 2 hours or less, as this keeps the drinking from getting out of hand.
The simple beauty of a cocktail party is that you have a wonderful opportunity to experiment with multiple dishes and snacks. Get creative and make sure your guests have plenty of options.
There is no one ‘right way’ to serve your guests, but with proper planning and a creative flair, you’re sure to serve up a healthy helping of smiles, good times, and fun had by all.
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