Ideas on Holiday Catering

Ordering catering for a large event can be expensive depending upon the size of the gathering and menu selections. Self-catering is a marvelous way to show off your cooking skills, save money, and spend time with guests. Parties, brunches, dinners and barbecues are so much fun around the holidays with a little planning and creativity. Check out ideas on holiday catering for cleaver ideas and fun.

Organize

Planning everything at least a month in advance of the big event keeps you on schedule and less likely to forget important details. Keep a folder for all your notes including guest lists, menus, grocery lists, supply lists, and decoration ideas to keep everything together and provide easy reference.

Brunches

Brunches are a great way to feed, and entertain guests, especially over the holidays. The easiest way to self cater brunches is to prepare your entire menu well in advance and serve buffet style. Include an assortment of attractive breakfast and brunch ideas such as fancy meat carving stations, fruit and salad bars, biscuits, rolls and scones.

An omelet station is always a big hit. Pre-cook and prepare a number of goodies to make individual omelets with bacon, sausage, mushrooms, jalapenos, green chiles, olives and assorted cheeses.

Consider serving a casual brunch for favorite holidays like St. Patrick's Day and Valentines Day. Whip up green or red punch for a festive drink, and serve green cookies or red shaped Valentines cookies for deserts.

Barbecues

Backyard barbecues are fun for family and friends, especially in a casual setting. Barbecues also offer the advantage of so many menus including several dishes that can easily be made ahead of time and frozen or purchased from the delicatessen.

Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day are all fun holidays to plan an outdoor barbecue. People love tasty finger foods, side dishes, barbecued meats, sandwiches and plenty of deserts. Fire up the grills with hot dogs, hamburgers, barbecued chicken and ribs.

Pick up pies from the local bakery for deserts with plenty of whipped toppings. Consider deli coleslaw, potato salad and jello salads for side dishes. Make up homemade punches, lemonade, ice tea, and plan on beer and wine.

Keep it simple so you are not over worked and can have just as much fun as your guests. Plan on disposable paper plates, plastic silverware and paper napkins. Guests can feel free to make a meal or snack while listening to music, playing games or watching fireworks on the Fourth of July.