Setting up a buffet is the most kid-friendly way to entertain, and is sure to please everyone. Even picky eaters will find something to like with a table full of tasty options. Food is self-serve, paper plates are totally acceptable, and the menu is usually made of up make-ahead items, or those that can be cooked quickly at the last minute.
I always host a small party to say farewell to summer, and while I begin the season with a Canada Day party, I like to end it with something simpler. Here’s my ideal buffet outdoor party menu for late summer, a make-ahead feast that can be prepped a day or so in advance, and warmed just before serving.
The Main Dish:
Pulled pork sandwiches are hit with almost everyone. Set up the items self-serve style and let your guests build their own sandwiches.
- Roasted pork shoulder
- Barbecue Sauce
- Crusty buns or sweet potato biscuits
- Pickled jalapenos
- Dill pickles
- Bread and butter pickles
SIDE DISHES:
Choose two or three of the following options, but be sure to pick at least one ‘fresh’ item to help offset the richness of the main dish.
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Fresh cut garden veggies and dip
- Baked mac n’ cheese
- Big green salad
- Potato chips
- Cornbread
- Corn on the cob
- Sweet potato fries
- Baked beans
DRINKS:
To make things easy on yourself, serve pitchers instead of individual portions, except for beer, and be sure to offer at least a few non-alcoholic options.
- Beer
- Sangria
- Watermelon agua fresca
- Iced tea
- Flavoured waters
DESSERT:
Keep things simple and serve seasonal desserts like pie, crisps, crumbles or bars — store-bought is fine — topped with vanilla ice cream. Or make the easiest cake ever that’s sure to please the entire crowd.
- Blackberry crumb bars with vanilla ice cream
- Brownies and berries cake
- Fresh fruit platter
Tagged under: summer,Party,menu,summer dining,buffet,summer menu,summer buffet,make ahead buffet menu
Category: entertaining
