Are you planning a special event and need help with what popular catering dishes to serve your guests? Don’t fret; we understand that it can be challenging to curate the perfect menu
In this article, we’ve covered you with our top 6 popular catering dishes that will impress any crowd. Whether you’re hosting a corporate event, a wedding reception, or a family gathering, these dishes are versatile, delicious, and can easily be adapted to suit any occasion.
That’s just some of it – we’ll also provide tips and ideas to make the most out of your menu. So, if you want to wow your guests and make your event unforgettable, keep reading and discover the most popular catering dishes perfect for your next event.
What Popular Catering Dishes To Make for Your Next Event?
1. Sliders
If you’re looking for a classic and crowd-pleasing catering dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than sliders! These miniature burgers are the ultimate finger food that’s easy to eat and perfect for events where guests will be mingling and standing.
One of the best things about sliders is their versatility. You can offer various options such as beef, chicken, pulled pork, or even vegetarian options like portobello mushrooms or falafel. And when it comes to toppings, the sky’s the limit! There are endless ways to customize your sliders, from lettuce and cheese to tomato and condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayo.
Sliders are also an ideal option for events where guests eat with their hands, as they are easy to hold and won’t make a mess. Plus, they can be a fun addition to a “build your own” station where guests can get creative and customize their slider with their favorite toppings.
So, if you’re looking for a tasty and hassle-free catering option that’s sure to please your guests, sliders are definitely the way to go!
2. Pasta stations
With various pasta types, sauces, and toppings, pasta stations can be tailored to suit any occasion.
When it comes to pasta types, the options are endless. From spaghetti to penne to fettuccine, there’s a pasta shape for everyone. And when it comes to sauces, you can offer classic options like marinara, pesto, alfredo, or carbonara, or get creative with your signature sauces. Toppings can include grilled vegetables, meats, seafood, or even cheese – the possibilities are endless!
Pasta stations are also a great option for guests with dietary restrictions, as gluten-free or vegetable-based pasta options can be provided. Plus, with pasta cooked to order, guests can enjoy their pasta hot and fresh and customize their dish with the pasta and sauce they choose. To add a touch of elegance, consider having a chef prepare the pasta and sauce right in front of your guests!
Overall, pasta stations are a fantastic way to add variety to your menu and will surely be a hit with guests of all ages. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and customizable catering option, look no further than pasta stations!
3. Tacos
Tacos are a popular and delicious option that can be customized to suit any occasion. You can fill them with various types of meat, such as chicken, beef, or fish, and top them with fresh ingredients, such as lettuce, cheese, tomato, cilantro, and salsa. You can even serve them in soft or hard shell tacos, depending on your personal preference.
In addition, tacos are a great option for guests with dietary restrictions, as vegetarian or vegan options can be provided. You could even have a “build your own” taco station where guests can customize their tacos with the fillings and toppings of their choice, making it a fun and interactive experience for everyone.
Tacos are easy to serve and can be a great addition to any event, adding variety and a touch of fun to your menu. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and customizable catering option that will please your guests of all ages, look no further than tacos!
4. Grilled vegetables
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious catering option, grilled vegetables are a great choice that will impress your guests. They are a tasty addition to any meal and can also accommodate guests who follow vegetarian or vegan diets.
You can grill various vegetables such as zucchini, peppers, eggplant, onions, and mushrooms, and season them with herbs, spices, and oil to enhance their flavor. Grilled vegetables can be served as a side dish or used as a topping for sandwiches or salads.
Not only are grilled vegetables a nutritious option, but they also add color and texture to your menu. You could even have a “build your own” salad station where guests can customize their salad with the grilled vegetables of their choice.
Grilled vegetables are also a great option to serve alongside meat dishes, providing a balanced and healthy alternative to traditional side dishes. So, if you’re looking for a versatile and tasty catering option that will cater to all guests, consider adding grilled vegetables to your menu.
Read More: 10 Cheap Catering Ideas For Any Event
5. Grilled or BBQ meats
Grilled or BBQ meats are a savory and mouth-watering catering option that can be tailored to suit any occasion. They are perfect for events where guests will be seated and eating with utensils. Meats such as chicken, pork, or steak can be marinated or seasoned with various herbs and spices to enhance the flavor and can be grilled or barbecued to perfection. They can be served as a main course or a topping for sandwiches or salads.
Grilled or BBQ meats are also a great option for events where guests have dietary restrictions, as they can be easily adapted to be gluten-free, halal, or even vegetarian by using plant-based meat alternatives. They are a perfect option for event guests looking for a hearty and satisfying meal. You could also have a “build your own” sandwich or salad station where guests can customize their dish with the meat of their choice.
Grilled or BBQ meats are a fantastic way to add a touch of indulgence to your menu and can be a hit with guests of all ages. They are easy to serve and can be a great addition to any event, adding a rustic and flavorful element to your menu. So, fire up the grill or barbecue and get ready to impress your guests with this classic catering option.
6. Salad bars
Salad bars are a healthy and popular catering option that can be tailored to any occasion. They are perfect for events where guests are looking for a lighter option or for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. Salad bars can include a variety of greens such as lettuce, spinach, arugula, or mixed greens, and a variety of toppings such as fruits, nuts, cheese, and grilled or cooked vegetables. Dressings can include various options such as vinaigrette, ranch, or Caesar.
Salad bars are a great way to add variety to your menu and can be a hit with guests of all ages. They are also easy to serve and can be a great addition to any event, adding color and texture to your menu. You could also have a “build your own” salad station where guests can customize their own salad with their choice’s greens, toppings, and dressings.
Salad bars are also a great option for events where guests have dietary restrictions, as gluten-free or vegan options can be provided. They can be a great addition to any event, providing a balanced, healthy alternative to traditional side dishes.
Read More: Quick & Easy Guide to Calculating Catering Portions
Conclusion
Choosing the right catering dishes for your event can be a daunting task, but with the right popular catering dishes, you can please any crowd.
The top 6 popular catering dishes we’ve shared in this article are versatile, delicious, and easy to adapt to any occasion. From classic sliders to salad bars, these dishes will surely be a hit for your guests.
If you are a catering or event management business, you should consider using catering software like Flex. Flex can help you make sure everything runs smoothly. With Flex, you can have peace of mind knowing that the event will succeed. So, try Flex today if you want to impress your customers and make your event memorable.
