Guest Author - Catherine Bridges
As the winter celebrations (Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, etc.,) approach, try having a party with sandwiches and sandwich makings set out buffet-style. This allows the host/hostess to enjoy the party while having relative ease in replenishing and keeping the ice chests, sodas and adult beverages available.
Here's a great list for creating a complete party sandwich table that allows guests to make their own treats:
Shaved roast beef
Shaved honey ham
Shaved turkey or chicken breast
Swiss slices
Cheddar slices
Feta crumbles
Mustard
Dijon Mustard
Catsup
Mayonnaise
Slices of red onion
Slices of tomato
Sandwich-size portions of mesclun, red leaf or romaine lettuce
Cup of sunflower seeds
Cup of slivered almonds
Shaker of Ms. Dash Lemon Pepper
Shaker of Ms. Dash Table Blend
Regular chips and corn chips
Bread - Wheat, White and Rye
French Rolls, Tortillas and Pitas
Be sure to keep meats and breads in a container or wrapped well with plastic wrap and sealed in a Ziploc if serving outside. Put meats, cream cheese fillings and mayonnaise on top of a tub or hotel pan filled with ice. These items are perishable and they must be kept cool so that guests do not get ill! If serving the buffet inside - have the meats and breads covered so that they do not dry out. Meats and mayo should be either kept cool (on ice as described above) or small portions set out and replenished regularly to preserve freshness and viability.
Two crockpots: one with chili and one with a yummy crockpot cobbler. Keep a few half-gallons of ice cream in the fridge for later and maybe some fun ice cream drizzles and toppings.
It is suggested to use real utensils and heavy paper (Chinet) plates for service. Use the heavier plastic bowls for chili and desserts. And if washing cloth napkins isn't an option, then try fun terry towels or fold brightly printed paper towels - lots of em!!!
Set out foods in mini-stations. If serving inside - try focusing the food service around the dining room. Use either end of the dining table (and remove the chairs) or set up card tables in different corners or areas of the living room or rec room. If serving outside, spend a little money and invest in table screens that cover your foods and protect them from bugs, birds and early, wandering fingers. Then, enjoy the party!!!
