Full Course Catering Menu Options for Vegetarians

According to a recent poll taken by Gallup.com, more than 5% of Americans claim to be a vegetarian, while many more take on the resolution every single day. Additionally, many faiths and cultures maintain a diet that is free of meat and meat by-products. Now more than ever, vegetarianism is making its way into the mainstream culinary arts with fervor and success because it promotes healthier eating, mindful consumption, and farm-to-table practices. Many people eat a mostly-vegetarian diet and don’t even realize it! So, if you are planning a party or event for vegetarians, don’t feel limited or intimidated by the job. You can look forward to creating a custom vegetarian menu from an array of endless and delicious options!

For some instant inspiration or ideas, continue reading for a full course vegetarian catering menu, plus information on where to get trusted catering services near you.

Vegetarian Catering Peachtree City GA 678-340-0510
Vegetarian Catering Peachtree City GA 678-340-0510

Vegetarian Catering Menu Options

Appetizers and Hors d’Oeuvres

There are several appetizers and Hors d’Oeuvres to choose from when custom creating a vegetarian catering menu. From finger foods and charcuterie to bread selections, hummus cups, canapés, tapenade, and more, the selection is more than generous. Here are some popular choices to consider:

▢ Bread Roll Platters
▢ Caprese Salad Skewers
▢ Bruschetta
▢ Stuffed Mushrooms
▢ Edamame
▢ Cucumber Cream Cheese Boats
▢ Stuffed Jalapeños
▢ Artichoke Hearts
▢ Flatbreads (Try Mushroom/Gruyere, Truffle Parmesan, or Fig and Goat Cheese)
▢ Vegetable Spring Rolls
▢ Macaroni and Cheese Cups
▢ Hummus Platter
▢ Cheese and Crackers
▢ Charcuterie
▢ Veggie and Ranch Dip Platter
▢ Chips and Salsa/Guacamole
▢ Falafel
▢ Hush Puppies
▢ Tapenade Platter

First Course Options

When it comes to the first course, it is important to provide foods that will satisfy and spark hunger, but not fill your guests up completely. After all, when serving a full course meal, the first course is always followed by the main course. So, think light, like salads and soups. Here are some functional and tasty first course options that meet vegetarian catering guidelines:

🥗 SALADS:
▢ Leafy Green Salad (Spinach, Caesar, Garden, etc.)
▢ Caprese Salad
▢ Watermelon Feta Salad
▢ Cucumber Onion Salad
▢ Mushroom Vinaigrette Salad
▢ Tabbouleh
▢ Baba Ghanoush
▢ Meatless Pasta Salad (Pesto, Italian, Creamy, etc.)
▢ Thai Papaya Salad
▢ Fruit Salad
▢ Cottage Cheese and Pineapple
▢ Waldorf Salad

🍵 SOUPS:
▢ Potato
▢ Broccoli Cheddar
▢ Mushroom
▢ Vegetarian Chili
▢ Gazpacho
▢ Tomato
▢ Cauliflower
▢ Butternut Squash
▢ Pumpkin
▢ Black Bean
▢ White Bean Chili
▢ Pea Soup

Main Course Options and Sides

For the main course, you are free to go big. Focus your meal selections on savory foods that fill up the belly and satisfy the palate. When choosing your main course items, consider seasonal foods too, like pumpkins and apples in the Fall and oranges in the summer. Here are some delicious and versatile main course options for vegetarian catering:

▢ Eggplant Parmesan
▢ Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers
▢ Ratatouille
▢ Fettuccine Alfredo
▢ Spaghetti w/Mushroom Ragù
▢ Vegetarian Pasta
▢ Cacio e Pepe
▢ Black Bean Cheese Burgers
▢ Grilled Tofu
▢ Mushroom Wellington
▢ Cheese Stromboli/Calzone
▢ Vegetarian Lasagna
▢ Mushroom Stroganoff

SIDES:
▢ Macaroni and Cheese
▢ Potatoes (Mashed, Baked, Scalloped, Sweet, Tots, Fries, etc.)
▢ All Vegetables (Steamed, Stewed, Grilled, Roasted, Fried, etc.)
▢ Mashed Cauliflower
▢ Rice
▢ Beans (Baked, Black, Refried, Lima, etc.)
▢ Onion Rings
▢ Coleslaw

Vegetarian Dessert is Easy!

Dessert should not be a problem for vegetarian catering planning. Not many desserts are made with meat. Steer clear of maple bacon options and bacon jams, and you should do well!

Are you looking for a qualified catering company to help plan your custom vegetarian or vegan catering menu? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for customized catering services in Peachtree City, GA and its surrounding counties.

Related Posts:

Easy Guide to Catering a Vegan Meal Spread
Helpful Tips for Kosher Catering
The Benefits of Farm to Table Catering

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510
Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

3 Easy Dinner Party Menu Ideas That Will Please Your Guests

So, you’re hosting a dinner party for a large crowd? Well then, you will surely want to know the secret to making dinner party planning and hosting easier than getting a manicure. That secret is to skip out on the cooking part! Hiring a professional catering service to prepare and deliver your dinner party menu will save you time, frustration, and more importantly, money.

Not only will a qualified caterer manage the planning, preparation, and if you so choose, the delivery of your dinner menus, thus eliminating stress and giving you more time to focus on other important aspects of your party, but they will also save you money by selectively curating a menu that will not render any excessive waste. When you have a skilled catering team helping you with your dinner party spread, the only decision you need to make is regarding the actual food!

Not sure what to cater at your upcoming dinner party? Continue below to review 3 top-recommended dinner menu ideas that are proven hits among party guests!

Taco Bar Catering Peachtree City GA 678-340-0510
Taco Bar Catering Peachtree City GA 678-340-0510

Try These 3 Menu Ideas for a Deliciously Satisfying Dinner Party

Tacos

You can never go wrong with tacos. Everyone loves tacos! They are extremely universal, capable of being glammed up to a fine-dining level or kept traditional and authentic. A taco bar can be perfectly customized to offer all sorts of options, allowing guests to be creative, plus build a taco to their personal liking.

Base options include corn shells, stand-alone shells, taco bowls, burrito bowls, and a selection of tortillas, like corn, flour, whole grain, low carb, and street style. As for fillings, you have endless options, like ground beef, chicken, steak, pork carnitas, refried beans, black beans, grilled fish, ground turkey, and shrimp.

When it comes to toppings, your options are vast. Traditional toppings to consider are lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickled jalapenos, chili peppers, fajita peppers, shredded cheese, cojita cheese, queso, guacamole, sour cream, salsas, hot sauces, cilantro, avocado, and radishes. Compliment your tacos with a selection of sides like nachos, tortilla chips, Mexican rice, refried/black beans, green salads, elote, churros, flan, fried ice cream, and more!

Barbecue

Like tacos, almost everyone is a fan of good barbecue. How could you not? Smoked meats, hearty sides, sweet and tangy sauces, and Southern desserts are universal comfort foods. For your upcoming dinner party, consider a barbecue spread! Your catering company might be able to offer on-site spit roasting and barbecuing too! This just adds to the fun and flair of serving barbecue for your dinner party guests.

Some main options for barbecue catering include beef brisket, smoked chicken, pulled pork shoulder, smoked sausages, whole hens, and burnt ends. As for sides, you can go as traditional or innovative as you like, but the classics would be cornbread, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, sweet corn, corn on the cob, baked beans, collard greens, coleslaw, and pickled peppers and onions. For dessert, think pies, parfaits, and cobblers! Fried apples and cinnamon are always a hit too!

Pizza

We know what you are thinking; pizza? It’s been done. But when it comes to serving a large crowd for a dinner party, pizza is always a safe option and it’s super simple to plan. Even if a person doesn’t think they are in the mood for pizza, they tend to eat and enjoy it, nonetheless. Best of all, pizza is highly-versatile.

Not only can you offer a wide selection of pizza styles and combinations, but you can also incorporate a build-your-own pizza station that allows guests to have little fun with their food. Choose one style of pizza or offer many, like Chicago style, Detroit deep dish, New York thin crust, Italian wood-fired pizza, or flatbreads. With toppings, you know the drill, choose as many as you like!

Offer traditional toppings like pepperoni, sausage, steak, chicken, and veggies, as well as more daring toppings, like fried egg, hot peppers, rare cheeses, pickled or caramelized onions, cured meats, marmalade, honey, balsamic glazes, fresh herbs, and more. You can also offer a selection of base sauces, like olive oil, marinara, red sauce, pesto, and Alfredo. Pair your pizza selections with desserts like cannolis, tiramisu, cinnamon rolls, chocolate chip cookies, and gelato.

Looking for a Georgia catering company that can deliver an exceptional spread for your upcoming occasion or party? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to learn your options for custom dinner party catering in Georgia. We serve all of Peachtree City and its surrounding locations.

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Healthy Catering Menu Ideas
How Much Food is Enough Food for Your Event?
FAQS About Catering a Party

Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510
Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510

Seasonal Cocktails That Will Keep Your Party Guests Cozy

Winter permits all sorts of fun opportunities for hosting an event or party. From heat lamps and fire pits to ice sculptures, ice luges, and even pop-up igloos, the options for a unique seasonal experience are virtually endless. Perhaps best of all, you can enhance your special occasion by offering a cozier menu selection of warm cocktails! As one of the most anticipated elements of any party invite, the cocktail list will play a major role in your guest’s overall enjoyment. And since the winter is chilly in Georgia, a cozy cocktail will certainly warm them up!

Continue below to review some tasty recipes for warm, winter cocktails!  

Winter Party Catering Peachtree City Georgia 678-340-0510
Winter Party Catering Peachtree City Georgia 678-340-0510

Top 3 Cocktails to Fight the Winter Chill This Year

Classic Hot Toddy

Hot Toddy’s are perfect for a chilly, winter day. They are even suggested to be effective to alleviate certain ailments, like indigestion, sore throats, and coughs! If you like lemony drinks and honey, this winter cocktail is for you. Here’s how to make it:

■ 1.5 Ounces Honey Whiskey
■ 2 Lemons
■ 2 – 3 Teaspoons of Honey
■ ¾ Cup of Boiling Water
■ 1 Cinnamon Stick

Set your tea kettle, then quarter one lemon and thinly slice the other. Set aside. In a glass or ceramic mug, add the whiskey and the juice of 2 lemon wedges. Add honey to taste. Test your drink, then add more lemon or honey, depending on how you like it. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and lemon wheel.

Rumchata Hot Cocoa

Rumchata is a popular liqueur that offers a brilliantly rich and creamy element to anything you bake, make, or drink. Couple with your favorite kind of cocoa and you have yourself a charming and delicious winter cocktail! Here’s how to make it:

■ 2.5 Cups of Whole Milk
■ ½ Cup of Rumchata
■ Mug of Hot Cocoa
■ Whipped Cream
■ Granulated Sugar
■ Cinnamon Stick
■ Roasted Marshmallows
■ Melted Caramel (optional rim garnish)

Basically, just add all ingredients into your favorite blend of hot cocoa, then garnish with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick. If you want to take your drink to the next level, before making it, dip the rim of your mug into melted caramel, followed by a dunk in granulated sugar. In place of whipped cream (or in addition to…we’re not judging!), you can top it with roasted marshmallows!

Irish Coffee

You just can’t go wrong with coffee drinks. Most people like coffee, especially when it is chilly out! And for those who do not like coffee, this cocktail still tends to be pleasing thanks to its creamy, sweetness. Here’s how to make it:

■ 1 Cup of Fresh Hot Coffee
■ 1.5 Ounces of Irish Whiskey
■ 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
■ Heavy Cream

Before getting started, slightly with your heavy cream and set aside. Then, add all ingredients to your freshly brewed hot cup of coffee and garnish with your heavy whipped cream!

Are you looking for local catering company who can provide the most delicious and unique seasonal cocktails for your upcoming special occasion? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to learn how our Peachtree City Caterers can make your party or large-group event the most memorable of the season!

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How to Select Alcohol Service for a Catered Event
The Importance of Alcohol and Bar Safety for Large Group Catering
What to Look for in a Large Event Caterer

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510
Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

How To Make Your Own Candy Apple Buffet Bar at Home

Halloween may be over, but caramel candied apples are still all the rage. Now is a perfect opportunity to visit your local farmers’ market or apple orchard and take advantage of their final harvest haul. You can bring home dozens of fresh, locally grown apples of all varieties for as little as pennies on the dollar.

The best part is, there is so much you can do with an apple surplus! But why not try something different this year? After all, apple pies and cobblers are so conventional. So, put your apple hoard to good use and good fun by entertaining your children and guests with a homemade candy apple bar spread!

Continue reading to learn some tips on creating an easy and entertaining candy apple buffet bar that you can do with your friends and family any time of year!

Dessert Catering Peach Tree City Georgia 678-340-0510
Dessert Catering Peach Tree City Georgia 678-340-0510

How to Build Your Candy Apple Bar Spread

The most exciting part of building your own candy apple bar spread for your friends and family is picking out all of the fun ingredients. If you think about it, you can basically dress up a candied caramel Apple anyway you like. From traditional garnishes like sprinkles and nuts to extravagant garnishes like crumbled Oreo cookies and chopped up Snickers bars, you can really let your imagination fly free when it comes time to shop!

For the base coat toppings, you can stick with the traditional caramel topping, which you can make yourself by melting butter and caramel candies on the stove, or you can purchase ready-to-heat caramel topping specifically designed for candied apples. In addition to caramel, consider hot fudge topping, white chocolate topping, or toffee topping! Both are great for both drizzling and dunking!

In addition to all of the delicious toppings and garnishes for your candy apple bar, you will need the basics, which include your apples, wooden chopsticks or kebab skewers, dinner sized paper plates, two medium-size serving bowls, and a muffin tin for all of your topping selections.

This is a messy project, especially if you are entertaining children, so be sure to have plenty of napkins and moist towelettes handy as well! If you want to mitigate the mess, consider slicing your apples for custom dunking and decorating.

Custom Catering Services Georgia 678-340-0510
Custom Catering Services Georgia 678-340-0510

What You Will Need:

❑ PLENTY OF APPLES!
❑ 2 Medium-Size Bowls for Your Caramel & Hot Fudge Topping
❑ Muffin Tin for Your Toppings
❑ Wooden Chopsticks or Kebab Skewers
❑ Dinner-Sized Paper Plates
❑ Napkins & Moist Towelettes
❑ Caramel
❑ Hot Fudge

Topping Inspirations:

■ Edible Glitter or Gold Flakes
■ Edible Pearls
■ Cake Décor Lettering
■ Rainbow Sprinkles
■ Chocolate Sprinkles
■ Chocolate Chips
■ Graham Crackers
■ M&M’s Candy
■ Pop Rocks Candy
■ Shredded Coconut
■ Nuts Of Any Variety
■ Cereal
■ Marshmallows
■ Raisins
■ Dried Fruit
■ Crumbled Cookies
■ Chopped Candy Bars
■ Chopped Peppermint Candies
■ Chocolate Drizzle (White, Dark or Milk)

Set Up is Simple!

Set up your candied apple buffet bar on a table or countertop, placing the paper plates at the front of the line. Pre-poke all of your apples with your chopsticks or kebab skewers since this can sometimes be distracting for guests and potentially hazardous for children. When it comes to building a custom candy apple, simply dip an apple into your choice of melted topping, then place on a paper plate and sprinkle on your desired garnishes!

Are you looking for custom catering services that can provide the personalized menus you have in mind for your upcoming occasion? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to speak with a friendly and experienced Peachtree City catering service manager, today.

Related Posts:

The Top 4 Dessert Catering Trends So Far This Year
Easy Guide to Catering a Vegan Meal Spread
A Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe You Can Count On

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510
Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

3 Bloody Cocktails That Will Spook Your Guests This Halloween

Your Halloween weekend is just ahead. Have you gathered all your supplies and materials for the spooky festivities? If you haven’t already planned the cocktail menu, then you are in the right spot. Below are 3 blood-themed Halloween party cocktails that will surely give your guests a fright!

Halloween Party Catering Peach Tree City GA 678-340-0510
Halloween Party Catering Peach Tree City GA 678-340-0510

Halloween Cocktails That Might Curdle Your Blood

Double, double toil and trouble; these 3 blood-inspired Halloween cocktails will give your guests a buzz, plus make their caldrons bubble!

Blood Orange Martini ?

This spooky Halloween cocktail is both sweet and tart, and can be served pitcher-style, making it a great make-ahead batch cocktail! It’s shaken, then served up in a chilled martini glass and garnished with a blood orange wheel!

◻ 1.5 oz. Vodka
◻ ½ oz. Cointreau Liqueur
◻ 2 oz. Blood Orange Juice
◻ ½ oz. Fresh Lime Juice
◻ Blood Orange Slices

Crow’s Blood Champagne Cocktail ?

For a truly Fall-inspired cocktail that bubbles with Halloween fright, try the Crow’s Blood Champagne Cocktail! Simply build it in a chilled champagne flute and garnish by dropping a sugar cube inside the glass! With two bloody options to choose from, this cocktail will surely please all palates!

◻ Sparkling Wine or Champagne – Chilled
◻ Pomegranate or Cranberry Juice – Unsweetened
◻ Sugar Cubes

Classic Bloody Mary ?

You probably already guessed that this famous, all-time classic cocktail would make the spooky Halloween cocktail list! Made in infinitely creative ways, you can customize your Bloody Mary to be spicy, mild, crazy, or conventional as you like! So long as you add that tomato or vegetable juice, you’ve got yourself a spicy blood-themed Halloween treat that kicks back!

◻ 2 oz. Vodka
◻ 4 oz. Tomato Juice (or Bloody Mary Mix)
◻ ½ oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
◻ 2 Dashes of Worcestershire Sauce
◻ 2 Dashes of Tabasco
◻ Pinch of Salt and Pepper

Garnish your Bloody Mary to your choosing, but the classic garnish is a celery stalk, green olives, and lime wedge. You can also do a salted rim! Just rub the lemon wedge around the rim and then press the glass into any salted cocktail mix you like! Crazier and tastier garnish ideas for Bloody Mary’s include pickles, banana peppers, candied bacon, cocktail shrimp or scallop skewers, mini cheeseburgers, boneless tenders, and even lobster tails!

Looking for some more Halloween party help or inspiration? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for the spookiest and tastiest party catering services in Peachtree City, GA and its surrounding counties.

Related Posts:

How to Plan a Last Minute Halloween Party
3 Steps to Planning Your Halloween Party Catering Spread
Halloween Catering Ideas That Will Make Them Scream!

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510
Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Nutritional Facts About Lamb Meat

Nothing celebrates the Fall and Winter seasons like a juicy, indulgent entrée. This time of year, lamb takes a center seat at the table with its decadent and cozy palate offerings. If you have ever tasted lamb, you know it is a delicious red meat that is loaded with flavor. But it is also nutrient-rich, providing a wide source of essential vitamins and minerals, including B12, selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn). Plus, lamb meat is an all-natural, organic, and hormone-free food, which means you can feel great about making a healthy and responsible meal choice for the upcoming holidays and seasonal occasions!

Continue reading to learn more facts about lamb meat nutrition and consider it for your next event or special occasion.

Peach Tree City Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510
Peach Tree City Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510

Basic Numerical Nutrition for Lamb Meat

3 Ounces of Boneless Cooked Lamb Meat:

Calories = 248
Calories From Fat = 159

Fat = 17.66 grams – 27%*
Saturated Fats = 7.447 grams – 37%*
Polyunsaturated Fat = 1.274 grams
Monounsaturated Fat = 7.439 grams      

Protein = 20.68 grams
Carbohydrates = 0 grams

Cholesterol = 82 milligrams – 27%*
Sodium = 335 milligrams – 14%

Fiber = 0
Sugar = 0

Vitamin A = 0%
Vitamin C = o%
Calcium = 1%
Iron = 9%

CALORIC ANALYSIS = 66% FAT and 34% PROTEIN

SOURCE: Fatsecrete.com

✤ Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Daily values may be higher or lower depending on your individual caloric needs.

Additional lamb Meat Nutrition Facts

The Food and Drug Administration declares that a 3 ounce portion of cooked lamb meat meets the requirements for lean meat. That is because it has less than 10 grams of fat and less saturated fats and cholesterol.

In lean cuts of lamb, 40% of the fat is monounsaturated, which interestingly enough, is the same type of fat in olive oil.

A mere 3 ounces of lamb meat is enough to provide 5 times the omega-3 fatty acids and alpha linoleic acid in an equal portion of beef. In fact, this portion of lamb meets the daily fact and cholesterol recommendations of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Eating 3 ounces of lean meat a day can reduce overeating and provide longer periods of felling full, which assists greatly with weight loss plans.

Are you thumbing through a wide selection of meaty options for your upcoming event or special occasion? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for customized catering in Peachtree City, Georgia for corporate events, social events, wedding events, and more. We deliver full-service catering for small and large gatherings.   

You Should Also Enjoy:

The Benefits of Farm to Table Catering
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Unique Events Perfect for Professional Catering Service

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510
Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Tasty Party Foods That Won’t Break Your New Year’s Resolution

Are you worried that an upcoming party is going to set you back from reaching your New Year’s resolution? If so, you can feel better knowing that you can easily maintain your positive health food goals by simply opting for some healthier dishes. By focusing mostly on natural, wholesome ingredients, you can cater a healthy spread without sacrificing quality or flavor.

Continue reading for some recommended healthy party food catering ideas.

Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510
Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510

Mini Handhelds

One of the most popular catering trends of 2019 was miniature finger foods, and the novelty has yet to wear off! Mini sandwiches are still among the top-requested items at catered events this year. The great thing about sandwiches is that they are so versatile; you can make them as gourmet or kid-friendly as you like, and even match them to your party theme. Other popular choices have been mini veggie wraps, turkey burger sliders, and mini chicken brats. Use a whole-grain or homemade bread, coupled with some tasty condiments that are good for you, like ground mustard, avocado, or an olive-oil based vinaigrette. Also, using real cheese slices really enhances flavor and texture.

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

When you mix cream and fruit together, you get a delicious and better-for-you dessert loved by people of all ages. Fruit and yogurt parfaits are great because they can be made with an endless combination of fruits, creams, juices, and yogurts. And the fancy parfait glasses are usually a big hit as well. You can match your recipe you’re your party theme, or provide an array of options for guests. Parfaits are quick and easy to make, and provide a healthier, natural alternative to processed sugar. You can also make them with frozen yogurt for summer occasions.

Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Again, finger foods are a popular item for parties. And what better way to spice up veggies than to put them on a stick and grill them? Kabobs are convenient, no matter what you put on them, and vegetables are delicious when grilled. The flavors of grilled vegetables really pop, so people like them more when they are cooked this way. Putting them on a stick makes them easier to eat, so more people are likely to go for them too. The best part about veggie kabobs other than their healthiness is their versatility. You can mix and match a wide range of vegetables, and match them according to theme or season.

Custom Catering Services in Georgia

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional custom catering in Newnan, Georgia. We offer a wide range of catering services for all industries, occasions, events, and more. Choose from our popular catering menu, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a menu according to your particular needs and interests. We can also help with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Request a free estimate, information, or advice, today! 

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510
Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Tips for Storing Thanksgiving Day Leftovers

There is nothing quite like the comfort of enjoying a big plate of Thanksgiving Day leftovers. In fact, many people look forward not only to Thanksgiving Day, but also the day after, simply for the pleasures of leftover turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and of course, pie! So even though Thanksgiving is over, the holiday will keep on giving, so long as you store all your leftovers properly that is. Improper storage practices can reduce the quality of food, as well as pose several health risks since contamination can happen quite quickly.

In order to get the most of your holiday leftovers, and to protect your loved ones, be sure, you know how to store food the right way. You can give your fridge a   quick check right now to see if your storage practices are keeping your foods tasty and fresh.

Continue reading to learn all the tips you need to know for storing Thanksgiving leftovers, safely.

Georgia Catering Services
Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510

Cooling and Packing

Leftover foods should be stored in a separate container than the one they were served in. So, if you simply put your sweet potato casserole dish in the fridge and covered it with some plastic wrap, it is not the best practice for maintaining quality and freshness. Instead, pack all leftover foods separately in shallow containers with airtight lids, or plastic storage bags. Use the smallest container possible for each type of food you are storing to reduce oxygen exposure.

Length of Time

in order to maintain top quality and freshness, it is best to consume your Thanksgiving leftovers within 5 to 7 days. It is recommended to simply reheat the portion of food that you want to eat rather than heating up the entire container. Although it is safety reheat the entire container, and then store it again, reheating one portion at a time as needed will keep the food fresher for longer. If you wish to freeze your leftovers, be sure to use freezer-safe containers or plastic bags. In the freezer, leftovers should remain good for 2 to 6 months.

Defrosting Frozen Foods

There are three primary ways to thaw out leftover frozen foods. The best way to defrost frozen foods is to simply place them in the refrigerator and let them thaw out overnight. Just be sure to transfer them to a plate and keep them in the container. You can also choose to use cold running water to defrost frozen foods. To do this, run lukewarm water at your kitchen faucet directly on top of the frozen container. Depending on the mass and volume of the item, this can take anywhere from an hour to several hours. If you don’t waste water, you can fill a large bowl with lukewarm water, and place the frozen item inside. This can also take a few hours; however, you will feel like you’re wasting water or money. The least recommended way to de-thaw frozen foods is to use the microwave. If you choose to use this method, just be sure to follow your manufacturer’s instructions for your particular make and model microwave.

Reheating Leftovers

As mentioned, leftover foods can remain in the refrigerator safely for up to seven days. In order to reheat them safely, be sure the internal temperatures reach 165° Fahrenheit. If you are reheating sauces, be sure to bring them to a full boil before consuming to ensure any bacterial growth has been killed. When reheating foods in the microwave, use microwave-safe plate or containers, and rotate them during the heating process to ensure even cooking.

Georgia Catering Services

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional catering in Newnan, Georgia you can trust! We are skilled culinary professionals who specialize in full-service catering, including decadent desserts like made-from-scratch cookies! You can customize everything down to the very last detail, from menus and service, to themes, décor, venues, and more. Request a free consultation, today!

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510
Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

A Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe You Can Count On

Chocolate chip cookies bring back the fondest and happiest memories for anyone who has the pleasure of indulging in a rich, gooey, fresh-from-the-oven, homemade cookie. But since there are infinite ways to bake these tasty treats, and even more ways to make them unique, finding a go-to recipe can be quite overwhelming. Do you stick to the family’s conventional recipe? Or should you risk trying a new one? The stress of turning out a perfect batch of cookies can really take the fun out of the whole process.

So if you want to avoid sifting through the endless chocolate chip cookies recipes online the next time your kid comes home with a last minute bake sale order, just use this simple, fail-safe recipe that won’t let you down!

Dessert Caterers Georgia 678-340-0510
Dessert Caterers Georgia 678-340-0510

Classic Oven-Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies

What You Will Need:

? 3 Cups All-Purpose Flour
? 2 Cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chip Morsels
? 1 Cup Packed Brown Sugar
? 1 Cup Standard White Sugar
? 1 Cup Softened Butter
? 2 Eggs
? 2 Teaspoons Vanilla Extract
? 2 Teaspoons Hot Water
? 1 Teaspoon Baking Soda
? ½ Teaspoon Salt

Optional Ingredients:

? Peanut Butter
? Oats or Granola
? Chopped Walnuts
? White Chocolate Chips
? Macadamia Nuts
? Chocolate-Coated Candies
? Dried Cherries
? Raisins
? Shredded Coconut

Directions:

❶ Preheat oven to 350 degrees (175 Celsius).

❷ Combine butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth

❸ One at a time, beat the eggs into the butter/sugar mix.

❹ Add the vanilla extract and stir.

❺ In a separate bowl, combine baking soda and hot water. Stir until the baking soda is completely dissolved.

❻ Add baking soda/hot water mix to the batter.

❼ Add salt.

❽ Slowly stir in flour, chocolate chips, and any additional ingredients of your choosing.

❾ Drop large spoonful-sized scoops of batter onto an ungreased baking sheet.

✨ Bake Time = 10 – 11 Minutes

❿ After the cookies come out of the oven, allow them to rest for a few minutes before using your spatula to transfer them to a container or serving platter. And don’t forget to enjoy with a cold glass of milk!

Got a Crowd to Feed But Don’t Want to Bake?

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional catering in Newnan, Georgia you can trust! We are skilled culinary professionals who specialize in full-service catering, including decadent desserts like made-from-scratch cookies! You can customize everything down to the very last detail, from menus and service, to themes, décor, venues, and more. Request a free consultation, today!

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510
Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Simple Lo-Cal Party Dip Recipes for Superbowl

The NFL Superbowl is right around the corner, which means you need quick strategy for feeding your party guests. However, you might be torn between your New Year’s Resolution to eat cleaner, and creating a delicious spread of appetizers that will please everyone’s palate. Fortunately, you can still have mouth-watering appetizers that are healthy, without sacrificing a bit of flavor.

An easy way to achieve this is to go with some homemade, lo-cal party dips! Being so versatile, dips are the perfect choice for all types of party themes and occasions. And even better, they can be used for a variety of other yummy snacks, like pretzels, potato chips, raw fruits and veggies, crackers, bread bites, and more! Whether you are planning a huge soiree, or simply need a quick dish to serve for a spontaneous get together, homemade dips make a wonderful option and they are so simple to create.

Continue reading to learn some simple recipes to try out for your upcoming Superbowl event.

Superbowl Catering 678-340-0510
Superbowl Catering 678-340-0510

? Spicy Mustard & Chive Dip

This dip offers a unique taste, combining chives and mustard with soy sauce and lemon juice. Use this dip for raw veggies like carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, bell peppers, pea pods, celery, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Get creative and substitute regular yogurt for Greek, chives for green chilies, mayo for miracle whip, and so on! Combine all ingredients in a bowl until well-blended. Keep refrigerated for best results.

? ½ Cup Non-Fat Plain Yogurt

? ½ Cup Light Mayo

? 2 Tablespoons Fresh Chives (dried are fine too)

? 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice

? 1 Teaspoon Soy Sauce

? ½ Teaspoon Spicy Mustard

? ½ Teaspoon Hot Sauce

? Creamy Avocado Salsa Dip

This dip is Mexican-inspired, and perfect for a hot summer day snack. Pair with both veggies and chips, or use as a topper for baked potatoes, nachos, and tacos.  You can even use it for salads! Combine yogurt and salsa first. Then add the rest of the ingredients, stirring gently until well-blended. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.  Keep refrigerated.

? 1 Cup Non-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt

? ½ Avocado, Diced

? ½ Cup Salsa

? 1/3 Cup Fresh Cilantro

? ¼ Cup Chopped Red Onion

? ½ Teaspoon Ground Cumin

? Salt and Pepper to Taste

? Sweet Pumpkin Dip

This dip is great for seasonal celebrations and holidays, but it also makes the perfect treat for both kids and adults alike. And don’t let the taste fool you! This dip is under 100 calories per serving! Use apples, carrots, crackers, and more. Combine first 3 ingredients and beat on medium speed until well-blended. Then add the last two ingredients and continue to mix on medium speed until smooth. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. Keep refrigerated.

? ¾ Cup Reduced-Fat Plain Cream Cheese

? ¼ Cup Brown Sugar

? ½ Cup Canned Pumpkin

? 1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup

? ½ Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Call Food for Thought Catering

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional Superbowl party catering in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding areas, including Peach Tree City, Raymond, Sharpsburg, Arnco Mills, Fayetteville, Whitesburg, Chattahoochee Hills, and more. We offer full-service catering for all sports-themed parties and occasions, along with a wide selection of authentic, custom-made menus and packages, for all corporate and private events. Get started by requesting a free estimate, today.