My go-to would usually be ziti, but I feel like doing something different. Can't be anything too fancy- I'll have some picky eaters. And preferably something easy.
I've done a taco bar. I have one of those 3 crockpot things ($30 or so) and put a different filling in each one. We know a lot of picky eaters and it worked out great. I think I did pulled pork, shrimp and a vegan bean/squash. Then a bunch of toppings.
We're having that many for Will's birthday party with my family this weekend.
I'm doing carne asada tacos. Meat is from a butcher near my parents' house and it's phenomenal. I'm doing corn and flour tortillas, black beans and cilantro lime rice, salsa, cheese, sour cream, etc. Also making guac and possibly some queso for apps.
A streamlined version of grilling a bunch of meats would be grilling hot dogs and hamburgers. Everyone tends to like those and you don't have to deal with so many different options and cooking times. Sides can be potato or pasta salad, fruit salad, veggies and dip. Whole Foods has very good premade versions of all of those things if you don't have the time or the inclination to make them.
Post by balletofangels on Aug 13, 2014 20:43:07 GMT -5
Ditto on the taco bar. I did one for my mom's birthday and I think it'll be my go to from now on. I did beef in one crock pot, chicken in another. I had queso in a small dip crock pot. Made a big batch of skinny taste's cilantro lime rice. It was so easy and I got to enjoy the guests (and margaritas).
ETA: I should read to the end!
I went to a party that did shredded chicken in the crock pot and had build your own salads. That is easy, healthy and yummy.
Normally, I would go with grilling for this time of year. We don't have a grill at our apartment though, so we're doing lasagna and meatballs for my family that's coming over tomorrow. Add a salad and you're all set!
Post by birdistheword on Aug 13, 2014 20:51:04 GMT -5
I went to a party once with a baked potato bar and it was AWESOME. They had all kinds of toppings - cheese, sour cream, chives, ranch, broccoli, grilled onions and peppers, bacon, shrimp, and all kinds of other stuff. Even though it was just baked potatoes it really felt like a full meal. They also had salad to go with the meal.
Allergies? Seafood? My husband makes a fabulous garlicky mussels and clams over liguine. Bread to dip in the sauce, salad or green veggie, wine- mmmmm. I believe it is an Emeril recipe
He can't make it often because my DD1 is allergic to shellfish but when she goes away - we are always like party. Crab, shrimp, mussel, oyster, clams, etc...
I've done chicken cordon bleu. It seems like it'd be a pain in the ass, but it's super easy. Pound chicken flat, season with salt & pepper, place a slice of ham and Swiss cheese on top and roll. Roll in breadcrumbs, toothpick shut, and bake at 350 for half an hour. I prep them ahead of time and pop in the oven 30 minutes before serving.
Usually some kind of pasta dish - lasagna, baked spaghetti, alfredo. If it's colder out I usually do chili. Since it's warm, grilling would be quick and easy. I usually do sliders and brats and have all kinds of different toppings available.