How to Plan Food for a Large Party

Entertaining a large quantity of guests can be a lot of fun and a lot of work, particularly if you decide to prepare the food yourself in lieu of hiring a caterer. Planning appetizers, a main course, dessert and drinks for a group of 20 people or more requires significant organization and preparation. If you want to accurately and successfully plan food for a large party of people, it is essential to know the exact number of guests and any dietary restrictions. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose a service style. Decide whether you will be having a sit-down dinner, a buffet or finger food at your party. Hors d’oeuvres and buffets are generally easier to prepare for large parties, and require less preparation and clean up than a sit-down dinner.

2. Create your menu and make a shopping list. Think about snacks to go with drinks, appetizers and hors d’oeuvres, a main course and dessert. Include alcohol. Choose foods that are easier to prepare for large groups of people, such as cheese and fruit plates, mini-pizzas or barbecue.

3. Multiply portions by the number of guests you expect to have. The average adult will probably consume three drinks, and a bottle of wine serves approximately five glasses, depending on the size glass you pour. An appropriate meat serving for an adult is between 1/4 and 1/3 pound for an adult, while an appropriate serving of vegetables, rice, pasta or salad is 1/2 cup.

4. Prep the day before. Create one or more areas where you will be serving food, as well as several areas to collect trash. Do all of your shopping early in the day, in case you notice you have forgotten something later. If you plan on serving any baked goods, prepare those the day before, as well. Marinate any meat you will be cooking, put it in a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator.

5. Get extra silverware, serving platters, glasses or any other kitchen items you may need to cook for and serve your guests. If you do not have flatware for 50 on hand, you don’t have to invest a fortune; pick up some disposable forks, knives, napkins and plates. Toothpicks are a practical method for serving and eating finger foods.

6. Provide options for vegetarians and people who do not drink alcohol. Many people do not eat meat, and although it is not an obligation, it is considerate for you to include a vegetarian option. Buy extra juice, soda or sparkling water for underage guests and designated drivers. Ask if any of your guests have food allergies and provide alternatives.

Tips & Warnings

• Stock up on ice if you are serving cocktails.

References

• Food Network: Recipes and Cooking: How to Host a Large Party
• Reader's Digest: Party Planning: 10 Rules of Hosting: Start Planning ASAP
• Epicurious: Cocktail Party Guide
• Food Network: Recipes and Cooking: Serving Sizes for a Crowd