There’s so much to think about when planning any celebration, especially milestone birthdays, anniversary festivities, and retirement parties. Everything from invites, decor, themes, entertainment, venue, and, of course, the food! By providing some of these gourmet appetizers to your guests, there’s no doubt you’ll be starting your party off the right way. Whether you’re putting a fun twist on a classic or coming up with something totally new, you’re sure to wow your guests. With this list, you’ll be able to create a variety of crowd-pleasers that are tasty, colorful, and easy to eat.
Planning Your Event Catering Menu and Gourmet Appetizers
There are so many different appetizer options when planning your event menu. It’s best to create a diverse menu of options so you can satisfy your entire group. Explore these delectable morsels for your upcoming corporate event or social celebration and really dazzle the taste buds!
1. Crudites and Charcuterie Boards
These boards are on trend right now, and the reason is that they bring so much variety! Crudites are simply raw vegetables on a platter or board. They can be sliced or whole and are usually served with at least one dip. Charcuterie boards are meat and cheese platters. While both of these can be done in a simple way, they’re fun to add a little flare to, as well. Don’t be afraid to add dried fruits, jams, toasted nuts, and more. Personalization is key! These boards involve little to no cooking and can be prepared ahead of time. Plus, they’re colorful and easy to eat.
2. Tasty on Toast
Anytime you serve something on toast or a crostini, it’s like your guests have their own edible plate. They’re easy to eat, and you can put so many different combinations of ingredients on them. Toasted bread is also filling and delicious. Choose a base for your toast, like a French baguette. Then, add your filling, like a cheese or fruit spread. And finally, incorporate a topping, such as a meat option, fruits, vegetables, or herbs. Some great examples of these crave-able appetizers include cranberry whipped ricotta crostini, honey roasted fig and burrata crostini, and smoked salmon crostini with whipped goat cheese. The flavor combinations are endless!
3. Twist on The Classics
Traditional appetizers are birthday party crowd-pleasers for a reason. These tried-and-true bites have stood the test of time, and your guests will be delighted to see them on your menu. Whether you’re sticking to traditional recipes or putting your own twist on them, you really cannot go wrong. Take your pick from deviled eggs, shrimp cocktail, chicken wings, or stuffed mushrooms, and leave your event guests satisfied with every bite.
4. Food on a Stick
Skewer appetizers might be the most convenient and fun compared to all the rest. These handheld and portable bites are easy for guests to eat because no utensils are needed. They’re perfect for mingling through a crowd! As a host, they couldn’t be any easier either because most of them can be made ahead of time, and clean-up is a breeze. The options are unlimited, whether it’s meat and cheese, veggies, fruits, or any assortment of those. Give your anniversary or retirement event guests antipasto skewers, caprese skewers, rainbow veggie skewers, shrimp skewers, fruit salad skewers, or any combination you’d like, and they’ll be coming back for more.
5. One-Bite Wonders
When you walk around the birthday party, most of your guests are going to have a drink in their hand. One-bite appetizers are great because you only need one hand to eat them. No need for utensils or even plates with these easy-to-eat bites. Get the most flavor in one bite with things like chips and dip, tartlets, meatballs, pinwheels, marinated cheeses, and canapes. There’s no shortage of options with these appetizers. Socializing for your event guests will be effortless and fun!
Event Menu Tips and Tricks
Delicious food is the best way to make a lasting impression on your New York event guests. Having a diverse variety for everyone to enjoy will always please any crowd. Keep in mind any dietary needs of those attending your party. It’s always good to have some options for those with dietary restrictions.
The amount of different appetizers you choose to serve at your party is completely up to you. The suggested amount is for 10-12 guests = five appetizer selections, 25 guests = nine appetizer selections, and 50 guests = 13 appetizer selections. For portion amount, plan on two to three servings of each selection per guest.
Let EMRG Media Help
Menu planning for your next party or event is made easy with these gourmet appetizers. Get your milestone party started with some cocktails, and your guests will love these easy-to-eat bites while circulating through the crowd. And if you need help curating your gourmet appetizer menu or event planning your special occasion, trust the event planning pros at EMRG Media!
