The Ultimate Guide to Hosting a Stress-Free Potluck Dinner

Posted on January 30, 2024 by cateringfft17

Gatherings centered around food have always been a cornerstone of community and friendship, and a potluck dinner epitomizes this tradition with a delightful twist. Imagine an event where each guest contributes a piece of the puzzle — a dish to share — resulting in a beautiful tapestry of tastes, aromas, and stories. Yet, the quintessential potluck can be daunting for the host who fears the chaos of uncoordinated dishes or the pressure of perfection.

We’re here to unveil the secrets to organizing a potluck that’s free from stress, letting you focus on the warmth of fellowship and the joy of sharing. In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover how to coordinate the culinary contributions, set the perfect ambiance, and ensure that your potluck dinner is an occasion filled with delightful conversation and a sense of community—all while keeping the experience light, easygoing, and fun.

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The Art of Potluck Dinner Party Planning

The key to a successful potluck dinner is coordination. From the invites to the dishes, every aspect requires thoughtful organization and communication. Here are some tips to help you navigate through this art with ease:

Invitations

Sending out invitations at least two weeks in advance can help your guests plan accordingly and avoid last-minute cancellations. Consider sending digital invites to save time and reduce paper waste. You can use platforms like Evite, Paperless Post, or even create a Facebook event.

Food Assignments

To ensure a balanced variety of dishes, it’s essential to assign different categories for your guests to sign up for. This will also help avoid duplicates and ensure that all the main food groups are covered. Some popular categories to assign are appetizers, main dishes, sides, and desserts. Be sure to take into account any dietary restrictions or allergies when assigning food categories.

Potluck Sign-Up Sheet

Creating a potluck sign-up sheet is an excellent way to keep track of the dishes your guests will contribute. You can either opt for a traditional paper list or use online tools like Google Sheets or SignUpGenius. Be sure to include the dish name, ingredients (for allergy purposes), and guest name on the sign-up sheet.

Communication is Key

To avoid any confusion or last-minute changes, be sure to communicate with your guests throughout the planning process. Send out reminders a few days before the potluck and confirm the number of guests attending. You can also ask your guests to share their dishes in advance, so you can plan the serving ware accordingly.

Creating a Welcoming Ambiance

A well-decorated space can set the tone for a great potluck dinner. Here are some ideas to create a welcoming ambiance:

Lighting – Opt for soft and warm lighting to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. String lights or candles can add a touch of warmth and elegance to your space.

Music – Choose some background music that complements the mood of the evening. Soft jazz or acoustic playlists are great options, but be sure to keep the volume low so that guests can easily chat and hear one another.

Cozy Seating – Make sure you have enough seating for all your guests, and if possible, arrange them in a way that encourages conversation and mingling. You can also add some throw pillows or blankets to make the space feel more comfortable and inviting.

Table Decor – Don’t forget about the table! A simple centerpiece of fresh flowers or candles can add a touch of elegance to your potluck dinner. Or, for a more casual vibe, opt for a colorful tablecloth and some fun placemats.

Keeping it Stress-Free – With the coordination and ambiance in place, here are some final tips to ensure a stress-free potluck dinner:

Have Some Backup Dishes – In case anyone forgets or is unable to bring their assigned dish, have a few backup dishes on hand. Simple options like bagged salad mix or a store-bought dessert can save the day without adding any extra stress.

Label All Dishes – To avoid any confusion or allergic reactions, be sure to label all dishes with their name and ingredients. You can use small tent cards or sticky notes for this purpose.

Let Guests Serve Themselves – Instead of playing hostess and serving each guest, let them serve themselves. This will give you time to enjoy your meal and mingle with your guests.

Embrace Imperfections – Remember, the beauty of a potluck dinner is in its imperfection. Don’t stress over minor mishaps or unexpected changes. Embrace the unique dishes and stories that each guest brings and focus on creating lasting memories with good food and great company.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have all the tips and tricks to host a stress-free potluck dinner, it’s time to start planning your own! Remember, coordination, ambiance, and keeping it easygoing are the keys to success. So, send out those invitations, create a sign-up sheet, set the mood, and let the good times roll.

Ready to relinquish your duty to serve a party of guests at your home or another venue? Contact Food For Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional large group catering in Peachtree City, Georgia. Our team of dedicated professionals will provide you with high-quality ingredients and amazing recipes that will wow your guests!

The Art of Inclusive Catering: Meeting Special Dietary Needs

Posted on September 18, 2023 by cateringfft17

Catering a party is an art form, one that requires balancing a variety of tastes and preferences. However, the challenge intensifies when special dietary needs come into play. Whether it’s food allergies, food intolerances, diabetes, vegetarianism, veganism, or specific dietary restrictions, a thoughtful host must consider these factors to ensure everyone at the party can enjoy the food without worry.

This blog post delves into the art of inclusive catering – a guide to meeting special dietary needs while throwing a party that no one will forget. Let’s explore how to create a menu that is as diverse and inclusive as your guest list.

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Catering For Those with Special Dietary Needs

Making Sure Everyone is Catered To

The first step to inclusive catering is to make sure that everyone’s dietary needs are met. This means asking your guests ahead of time what their dietary preferences/requirements are and then making sure the menu accommodates those restrictions. It also helps to provide a variety of food items so that people have options when selecting what they would like to eat. When creating the menu, think about what flavors and ingredients will work well together while still meeting everyone’s dietary needs.

Lactose-Friendly Options

When catering to those with lactose intolerance, it’s important to provide dishes that are free of dairy products. This can include vegan and vegetarian-friendly options (such as veggie burgers, tofu stir-fries, and lentil curries) as well as other delicious dishes like roasted vegetables or salads. Additionally, using plant-based milk options such as almond, coconut, or oat milk in dishes is a great way to make sure that those with lactose issues can still enjoy the meal.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free eating has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people opting for a gluten-free diet due to food intolerances or allergies. When catering for a party with guests who live a gluten-free lifestyle, it’s important to provide a variety of options that don’t contain gluten. This might include dishes made with gluten-free flour options such as almond flour, coconut flour or buckwheat flour. You could also offer paleo-friendly meals such as grilled meats and vegetables or salads without croutons or breadcrumbs.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

When catering for vegetarians or vegans at a party, it’s important to provide meal options that are both delicious and satisfying. This could include dishes such as roasted vegetables with quinoa, black bean burgers, veggie noodle bowls or salads with plant-based proteins like tofu and tempeh. When creating vegan dishes, be sure to check the ingredients list to make sure there are no animal products present.

Diabetic-Friendly Options

When catering for guests with diabetes, it’s important to keep in mind that they may need meals with lower sugar content or carbohydrates. This could include dishes such as grilled fish with roasted vegetables, salads made with heart-healthy greens and proteins like chickpeas, or a roasted vegetable dish with quinoa. You can also provide options like sugar-free desserts to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth without compromising dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, catering a party is all about creating an enjoyable experience for your guests. To make sure everyone feels included and respected, it’s important to consider special dietary needs when creating a catering menu. With thoughtful planning and understanding, you can create an inclusive experience that will make your party truly memorable. You can always rely on your professional caterers to help you customize the perfect menu for your occasion.

Would you like to learn more about how our professional catering managers can ensure a memorable meal and experience for your guests? Contact Food For Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional large group catering in Peachtree City, Georgia. We custom cater for any size of event or party, from weddings and birthdays to conferences, galas, and more.

Bringing the Heat: Unique Catering Concepts for Summer Parties

Posted on July 28, 2023 by cateringfft17

As the mercury rises and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to start planning your unforgettable summer parties. One of the most crucial elements of any successful party is the catering. This summer, why not elevate your event with creative and unique catering concepts that will impress your guests and leave a lasting impression? From fresh, local ingredients to innovative presentation methods, catering can transform your summer party from a casual get-together to an extraordinary gastronomic experience.

In this blog post, we will explore some exciting summer catering tips and trends that can bring the heat to your next event. So, whether you’re a seasoned event planner or hosting your first summer bash, buckle up for a journey through the world of summer catering.

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Seasonal Produce for Summer-Inspired Catering

One of the easiest and most effective ways to personalize your summer catering is through seasonal produce. Incorporating fresh, local ingredients into your menu can make a big difference in taste as well as presentation. Whether you go with classic favorites like juicy summer tomatoes or opt for something more exotic like dragon fruit, using seasonal ingredients can instantly bring your menu to the next level.

Not only does this elevate the flavor of your dishes, but it also adds a unique touch and reflects the seasonality of summer. Summer produce is also often more affordable than out-of-season items, making it easier to work into any budgeting plan.

Savory Barbecue and Grilled Meats

Nothing says summer like the smoky aroma of grilled meats! Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a more formal gathering, incorporating some delicious grilled items into your catering menu will be sure to please. From succulent chicken wings to juicy steaks, there are plenty of options for creating an unforgettable summer feast.

When it comes to grilling, always opt for high-quality cuts of meat. This will ensure that your dishes are flavorful and tender. You can even add a touch of originality by marinating the meat in unique sauces or rubs. For vegetarians and vegans, grilled vegetables like zucchini, onions, and bell peppers provide a tasty alternative to traditional barbecue fare.

Refreshing Summer Drinks

A summer party wouldn’t be complete without some cool and refreshing beverages. From classic favorites like lemonade and sweet iced tea to creative concoctions like fruity sangrias and champagne bellinis, the possibilities are endless. If you’re looking for something special, why not set up a specialty drink station at your event? This allows guests to customize their drinks by adding their own mix-ins like mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, citrus wedges, cucumber slices, or even flavored syrups.

You can also offer a selection of festive mocktails for those who don’t want to indulge in alcohol. For something unique and summery, try blending watermelon with some fresh lime juice and soda water for a delicious and healthy drink. Whatever you choose, make sure there is plenty of ice on hand to keep your drinks cold throughout the party.

With these tips, you can create an unforgettable summer catering experience that will have your guests raving for weeks. With careful planning and creative presentation, you can bring the heat to your next event with a truly unique and delicious summer spread. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start planning your summer catering extravaganza!

Catering Services to Help Make it Happen

Bringing the heat to your event sounds great but you may not be sure where to start. That’s where professional Peachtree City GA catering services come in. With their expertise and experience, they can help guide you through the whole process from concept to execution. Not only do they have access to high-quality ingredients and creative presentation methods, but they also provide logistical help – from table settings to food delivery.

Whether you’re looking for a full-service catering company or just need some assistance with your menu choices, a professional service can ensure that your summer event is a success. So, don’t be intimidated by the task of putting together a summer catering menu. With the right help, you can create an unforgettable experience that will leave your guests talking for months to come!

Now that you know some of the tips and tricks for successful summer catering, why not start planning your event today? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to speak with a friendly and experienced manager about our social event catering services in and around Peachtree City, Georgia, today. We offer boxed lunches, delivery service, buffets, plated meals, food service, and more!

How to Keep Your Catering Costs Low for Big Events

Posted on May 30, 2023 by cateringfft17

When it comes to throwing a big event, catering is one of the biggest costs you’ll face. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, corporate function, or birthday party, keeping your catering costs low can be a challenge. But with the right planning and preparation, it’s possible to keep your catering budget in check while still providing delicious food for your guests. Continue reading to learn some helpful, real-world tips on how to keep your catering costs low for big events.

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Average Cost of Catering a Large Event

Hosting a large event is undoubtedly a significant undertaking, with many details to consider: the venue, decor, and most importantly, catering. Catering costs can quickly add up, and setting a budget is crucial when planning. The average cost of catering for a large event can vary greatly depending on factors such as the number of guests, type of cuisine, and level of service required.

Although it is not the only business model used among catering companies, most large event catering prices are calculated on a per-head basis. Using this model, catering prices might range anywhere from $15 to $150 per person. It’s essential to work with a trusted Peachtree City caterer who can help guide you through the process and provide a realistic breakdown of the catering price sheet. With careful planning and consideration, your large event catering can be both memorable and cost-effective.

Effective Ways to Reduce Event Catering Costs

Organizing a big event entails significant catering expenses, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or birthday party. It can be challenging to control catering costs, but with proper planning, it’s achievable. Here are some tips to keep your catering expenses to a minimum and still serve delightful food for your guests:

1. Research the Catering Services in Your Area: There are lots of catering services out there, so do your research and find one that offers reasonable rates for the quality of food they provide. Ask around to get referrals from friends and family members who have used different caterers before. Make sure you read reviews online too, so you can make an informed decision.

2. Opt for Local Food Vendors: Instead of going with a catering service, see if there are any local restaurants that offer delivery or catering services at competitive prices. This way, you’ll be able to support small businesses while potentially saving money on your event’s budget. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and find out if they offer discounts for larger orders.

3. Reduce Waste: Order only as much food as you think your guests will eat to avoid wasting money on uneaten food. Also, try to choose menu items that don’t require a lot of preparation and decorations, which can add up quickly in terms of costs.

4. Consider Bringing in Your Own Food: If you have the time and skill set, consider bringing in some of your own food or ingredients to use in your catering service’s dishes. This is a great way to save money while still providing high-quality food for your event.

5. Opt For Buffet-Style Service: Buffets are usually cheaper than sit-down meals and are a good way to feed large groups of people. Guests will be able to choose the dishes they like, which can help keep food waste at a minimum.

In Summary

By doing your research, you’ll be able to find the right catering service that fits within your budget. With some creative thinking and proper planning, you can save money on catering costs while still providing delicious food for your guests.

Looking for full-service event catering that meets the budget requirement? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional large event catering in Peachtree City, Georgia. We also help with décor, themes, vendors, and more. Request a consultation today!

Creative Ideas for Presenting Catered Meals at Events

Posted on May 4, 2023 by cateringfft17

Are you looking for innovative ideas to present catered meals at your next event? Catered meals are an essential part of any gathering, and they can make or break the atmosphere. With careful planning and creative presentation, you can take your catered meal from ordinary to extraordinary!

Here are some trending ideas that will help you create a memorable experience for your guests. From seasonal and regional inspirations to interactive stations, table-side service, and more, these tips will have everyone talking about your event long after it’s over. So, let’s get started on crafting the perfect catered meal for your special occasion!

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Tips for Catered Food Presentation

Catered meals are a great way to make any event special. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, corporate dinner, or wedding reception, having delicious food prepared and served by professional caterers is sure to impress your guests. But why settle for the same old presentation when you can get creative with it?

Here are some unique ideas for presenting catered meals at events that will take your catering experience to the next level:

Interactive Buffet Stations

One way to spruce up the presentation of your catered meals is to opt for an interactive buffet. Rather than having all the food on one large table, divide it up into several stations and let your guests explore different cuisines and flavors. This gives them more control over their dining experience and encourages conversation between diners. With this setup, you can also offer a variety of food options that will accommodate any special dietary needs or preferences.

Seasonal and Regional Flavors

Another great idea for presenting catered meals at events is to incorporate regional flavors into your menu. By incorporating local ingredients, you show appreciation for their culture and provide dishes that are outside of traditional catering fare. This can be a unique opportunity to introduce people to new tastes and textures they may not be familiar with.

Plated Meals

If you’re hosting a more formal event, why not showcase your catered food with a plated meal? This will give your guests an elegant and luxurious dining experience. You can opt for elaborate centerpieces such as seasonal flowers or floating candles to make the presentation even more memorable.

Table-Side Service

If you really want to wow your guests, consider having table-side service for your catered meals. This allows each guest to have their food prepared on the spot by professional caterers who can offer suggestions and recommendations depending on their preferences. It’s sure to impress all of your guests!

Get Creative With Catered Food!

These are just a few creative ideas for presenting catered meals at events. With careful planning and a creative vision, you can make your next event truly unique. So don’t be afraid to think outside the box! Contact experienced caterers in your area to help you craft the perfect menu for any occasion. With their expertise and knowledge, they’ll be sure to create an unforgettable experience for all of your guests. From interactive buffets to table-side service, get ready for a tantalizing taste of gourmet food that will have everyone talking about your event for years to come!

Why Choose Catered Meal Service for an Event?

For any sort of parties and events, choosing professionally catered food is a great way to pair convenience and quality. Not only are you safe in the knowledge that a team of trained professionals are hard at work creating your delicious solutions, but it also saves you time that’s better spent devoting attention to other important needs.

Additionally, hiring an experienced Peachtree City caterer often adds an element of style that cannot be matched. Specialty menu designers readily create tailored eating and drinking experiences whereas homemade options may not deliver the same wow factor. Choosing professionally catered food events will put your mind and guests at ease, undertaking all kitchen duties with gusto!

Do you need a catering company in Georgia that can provide comprehensive meal service for your large group event while also creating a personalized menu that everyone will love? If so, contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to learn how our Peachtree City, GA caterers can deliver exceptional small or large group catering at the most competitive prices.

The Benefits of Working with a Large Event Catering Service

Posted on April 26, 2023 by cateringfft17

When it comes to catering for larger events, working with a large event catering service is often the best choice. Not only do they have experience in handling bigger crowds, but they also come equipped with all of the necessary resources and personnel needed to make your event run smoothly. Continue below to review some of the benefits of working with a large catering company.

Why Large Event Catering Services are a Great Choice

If you’re planning a big event, it’s recommended to hire a catering service that specializes in handling larger crowds. These services have the necessary experience, resources, and staff to ensure that your event runs smoothly. You’re still not convinced? Take a look below at some of the top benefits of hiring a professional catering company for large events and parties!

1. Variety of Cuisines: A large event catering service can offer a variety of food options for your guests, from traditional American fare to international cuisines. This will ensure that everyone attending the event has something they enjoy eating, regardless of their dietary restrictions or preferences.

2. Professional Staff: Large event caterers come with a team of professional staff members who are experienced in providing excellent customer service and making sure that all food is prepared properly and served promptly to your guests.

3. Equipment & Resources: When you hire a large catering company, they will typically bring their own equipment and resources onsite so that you don’t have to worry about renting or borrowing any additional items for your event. This will help you save time and money.

4. Experience: Working with a large catering service is beneficial because they have experience in handling larger events and crowds, as well as dealing with any possible issues that may arise during the event.

Overall, working with a large event catering service can provide numerous benefits for your next big event. From variety of cuisine to professional staff and resources, partnering with an experienced caterer will ensure that your guests are satisfied, and your event runs smoothly.

How to Choose a Large Event Catering Service

Organizing a large event can be both exciting and overwhelming. From choosing the perfect venue to making sure you have enough food for everyone, there are so many decisions that go into planning an event. One of the most important decisions is selecting your caterers – after all, no one wants to attend an event where the food isn’t up to par. After all, food is an important part of any event! There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a catering service for your large party or event.

☑ First, you’ll want to make sure that the catering service can accommodate the number of guests you’re expecting.

☑ Second, you’ll want to make sure that the catering service can provide the type of food you’re looking for.

☑ And finally, you’ll want to make sure that the catering service is within your budget.

When it comes to large event catering, there are a few different services that you can choose from. One option is to hire a full-service catering company. This type of company will take care of everything from the food to the decorations to the cleanup. Another option is to hire a more basic catering service that will just provide the food. And finally, you could always choose to do the catering yourself!

No matter what type of large event you’re planning, the right catering service can make all the difference. Keep these tips in mind when choosing a catering service for your next big event!

Get started on the right track by choosing a Georgia-based catering company that won’t let you or your guests down. Contact Food For Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional large group catering in Peachtree City, Georgia. We custom cater for any size event or party, from weddings and birthdays to conferences, galas, and more.

Creative Dinner Ideas for a Memorable Valentine’s Day at Home

Posted on February 7, 2023 by cateringfft17

Staying in this Valentine’s Day? That doesn’t mean you can’t eat like you are at a 5-star fine dining restaurant! No matter how simple the plans are, with a little creativity and effort you can turn any evening into an unforgettable Valentine’s Day dinner at home. So, put on your chef’s hat and get ready to show your special someone how much you care by preparing a romantic and memorable meal!

Continue below to learn some conventional Valentine’s dinner date ideas that you can do in the comfort of your very own home.

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Valentine’s Day Dinner Ideas That Will Impress Your Sweetheart

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your special someone just how much you care. If a night out isn’t in the cards this year, don’t worry—you can still create an unforgettable evening for two at home with some creative dinner ideas. From romantic decor and delicious recipes to thoughtful touches and unique activities, we’ve got all the inspiration you need for an amazing Valentine’s Day meal that will make your significant other swoon!

So, grab a pen and paper, prepare to plan a memorable Valentine’s Day dinner from the comfort of home!

💝 Valentine’s Day Ambience

Start by decorating your space for the occasion. Valentine’s Day is all about making your home feel cozy and special, so think about adding some romantic touches to set the tone for the evening. String up soft fairy lights, turn down the lights and light a few candles, and arrange fresh flowers in vases around the room. If you want to go all out, you can even create a makeshift yurt using blankets and pillows—the perfect spot for cozy snuggling.

💝 Valentine’s Day Menu

Next up is the food! When it comes to Valentine’s Day dinner recipes, think flavorful and fresh. Try to balance hearty comfort foods with lighter dishes that reflect the season. You could make a special salad with seasonal ingredients like pomegranate, persimmon, and roasted nuts. Starter dishes could include bite size pastries stuffed with cheese or mini tartlets filled with vegetables. For the main course you could whip up a classic pasta dish or something more adventurous like a salmon en croute. And don’t forget to finish off your meal with a decadent dessert; think oozing chocolate lava cake or heart-shaped raspberry tarts.

💝 Valentine’s Dinner Accoutrements

Finally, complete the evening by adding special touches that will make your Valentine’s Day dinner extra memorable. You could write out cards expressing how you feel about each other or play some of your favorite love songs in the background. Consider planning an activity such as watching a romantic movie or playing board games after dinner.

Plan Your Valentine’s Date Before It’s Too Late!

When it comes to planning an unforgettable Valentine’s Day dinner at home, the possibilities are endless. With some creative ideas and thoughtful touches, you can easily make your special someone swoon with a unique meal that will have them feeling extra loved this Valentine’s Day.

Are you preparing a Valentine’s Day party for you and all your friends? It’s not too late to place a catering order! Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional social event catering in Peachtree City, Georgia. We also help with décor, themes, vendors, and more. Request a consultation today!

Common Elements of a Catering Service Agreement

Posted on August 8, 2022 by cateringfft17

If you are planning to hire a professional catering company for your special event, you will have to sign a service agreement, which is essentially a contract with the caterers. Although these create a legally-binding relationship between caterer and client, there is nothing to be intimidated about, especially if you prepare yourself by researching what to expect in the terms and conditions of the contract.

Continue below to learn the most common elements of a catering contract, plus which Georgia caterers to trust for superior service that fits the budget.

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General Information Included in a Catering Contract

Understanding what to expect from a catering contract will help you feel more confident in signing on that dotted line. Once you sign a catering service agreement, you are responsible for your part in the process from start to finish, and so are the caterers. A catering contract benefits both company and client by clearly detailing the role and responsibilities of each. The contract helps serve as a single source of accountability when something like a dispute or error arises.

In a standard catering service agreement, you should find detailed information regarding:

Menu and Services

The catering agreement should clearly specify all food, beverages, and services to be provided. This includes all menu items, substitutions and alternatives, type of service style, and additional materials and services to be provided, like linens, tables, cutlery, cleanup, and more. It should also describe procedures for leftover consumables, staffing affairs, and similar administrative matters.

Payment Arrangements and Fees

On top of any base prices, all other fees and payment arrangements should be detailed in a catering contract. Fees should include everything from food and beverage procurement to hourly staff wages, cleanup and breakdown fees, and even coverage for additional, unexpected guests that attend at the last minute. In addition to monetary obligations, payment methods and schedules should also be detailed in the contract.

Basic Terms and Conditions

Like all contracts, a catering service agreement will also cover the basic terms and conditions between both parties. This includes fundamental information like the names and contact information of the client and catering company, date and time of event, and venue location, as well as additional specifications on matters like insurance, health and safety regulations, cancellations, postponements, contract breaches, and deadlines for menu and service changes.

Are you interested in learning more about having your upcoming event catered? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to speak with a friendly and experienced Peachtree City catering service manager, today. We also serve the Newnan, Raymond, Sharpsburg, Woodsmoke, Wood Valley Estates, Arnco Mills, Fayetteville, Whitesburg, Chattahoochee Hills, and Palmetto areas.

How to Properly Store Your Catering Leftovers

Posted on June 21, 2022 by cateringfft17

Catering service is an excellent and reliable asset to use for your party planning needs, so long as you choose the right company, of course. The right caterers can customize your event menus, prepare all foods and meals, plus provide a wide range of vendor procurement, food delivery, waitstaff service, and cleanup options. Professional catering is the convenient and cost-effective approach to pulling off a memorable and successful event.

But when you cater a large group, you are bound to have all sorts of leftovers. From salads and hors d’oeuvres to breads, sides, main courses, desserts, and more, catering leftovers are a food-lover’s dream. But in order to take full advantage of them all, you must know how to properly store them. Not only does proper food storage extend the life of your leftovers, allowing you to enjoy them until they are done, but is also avoids the chances of food-borne illnesses.

Continue below to learn some tips on how to store catered leftovers so that you can safely and cost-effectively feed your crew for weeks to come!

Catering Peachtree City Georgia 678-340-0510

Your Leftovers Have Value

Although you have no option but to toss out old or expired foods, it still impacts your conscience knowing that you could have prevented them from spoiling so soon. Food waste wastes more than just foods, it also wastes money, and worse, makes you feel guilty. After taking home all of the leftover catered foods from your party or event, it is in your best interest to properly store them in a timely fashion so that you can safely serve and enjoy them for as long as possible. After all, catered food is so delicious, you wouldn’t want to miss out on a single bite!

Food Storage Tips for Leftovers

According to Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, CDN, and owner of Real Nutrition NYC, the biggest error of judgement you can make when it comes to leftovers is letting them sit out for too long. She urges people to “Leave leftovers out for no more than two hours at room temperature. Otherwise, bacteria grows, which is one of the biggest causes of foodborne Illness.”

According to another expert, Angela L. Murad, RDN, wellness dietitian at the Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program, another common mistake made with leftovers is not marking their containers with labels and dates. Furthermore, try to assign a use for them, like using leftover French fries in a morning omelet or scramble. You can also place notes out to remind you when to reheat them or use them in a recipe.

The Best Way to Store Leftover Food

All leftovers should be broken down into smaller portions and allocated evenly into airtight containers. If you do not have airtight containers, plastic bags that are tightly sealed work well. After repackaging, it is encouraged to label and date the containers for optimal organization. So, where do you store them and how long will they last there? Depending on the type of food, you may need to separate your leftovers between your fridge and freezer, while some good might even be stored in the pantry or on the shelf.

RULE OF THUMB:

Basically, if it has been cooked or cooled, it needs to be refrigerated or frozen when it becomes a leftover. Be sure your fridge is set between 36 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. If you cannot use these items within the suggested time limit, it is recommended to freeze them. However, it is not recommended to freeze cheese or hard-boiled eggs! Breads and pastries can be transferred to a breadbox or airtight container in the pantry.

Flash Guide for Leftover Food Storage:

◘ Leafy Salads – 1 Day
◘ Creamed Salads (Egg, Chicken, Tuna, Macaroni, etc.) – 3 to 5 Days
◘ Pasta Salad – 4 to 5 Days
◘ Hard-Boiled Eggs – 1 Week
◘ Hard Cheeses – 3 to 4 Weeks
◘ Soft Cheeses – 1 Week
◘ Casseroles – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Mashed Potatoes – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Cooked Pasta (No Sauce) – 2 to 3 Days
◘ Gravy & Sauces – 1 Week
◘ Pizza – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Cooked Seafood – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Vegetarian Rice and Pasta Dishes – 3 to 5 Days
◘ Steaks, Pork & Chicken – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Soups and Stews – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Cooked Vegetables – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Cookies, Pies & Cakes – 1 Week

Are you looking for a professional and experienced catering company to help make your upcoming event a success? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for trusted Peachtree City GA catering that delivers above and beyond your expectations. We also help with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Request a consultation, today.

Impress Your Guests With This Easy Greek Lemon and Feta Meatball Recipe

Posted on June 2, 2022 by cateringfft17

If you love a well-balanced, rich, and pastoral meat dish, lamb is a go-to entrée to add to your list of menu items. In fact, try this highly-rated recipe for Greek-inspired Lemon and Feta Meatballs, which are made with fresh mint, ground lamb, and a succulent tomato-based sauce. If lamb is not your thing, you can swap out lamb for ground turkey or ground chicken!

Greek Style Catering Peachtree City Georgia 678-340-0510

Greek-Style Lemon and Feta Meatballs Recipe

Traditional Greek meatballs are called Keftedes. These delicious Grecian crudites are compatible with many pairings. If you want to stick with Greek cuisine, serve your meatballs with sides like Mediterranean salad, lemon orzo, fusilli pasta, toasted pita, hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, tomato and cucumber salad, french fries, and tzatziki sauce.

This modern take on the classic keftedes recipe will yield around 36 two-inch meatballs. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

What You Will Need to Make the Meatballs:

❏ 2 Pounds Ground Lamb
❏ 3 Tablespoons of Water
❏ 1 Large Egg
❏ 1 1/4 Cup Breadcrumbs
❏ 1/2 Cup Crumbled Feta Cheese
❏ 3/4 Teaspoons of Table Salt
❏ 2 Garlic Cloves – Minced
❏ 3 Tablespoons of Chopped Parsley
❏ 2 Tablespoons of Tomato Paste
❏ 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
❏ Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes
❏ 1/2 of a Lemon for Zest

What You’ll Need to Make the Sauce:

❏ 1 Medium Yellow Onion – Finely Chopped
❏ 1 Garlic Clove – Minced
❏ 1/2 cup of Red Wine or Dry Vermouth (optional)
❏ 1 Can of Crushed Tomatoes – 28 Oz.
❏ 1 Teaspoon of Dried Oregano
❏ 1 Teaspoon Table Salt
❏ 1/3 Cup of Kalamata Olives – Pitted and Chopped
❏ Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes
❏ 1/2 of a Lemon for Zest
❏ Juice of 1 Lemon
❏ 1 Tablespoon Thinly Sliced Mint Leaves – Plus Additional for Garnish
❏ 2 Tablespoons Roughly Chopped Parsley – Plus Additional for Garnish
❏ 1/4 Cup Crumbled Feta for Garnish

Cooking Directions

Start by preparing the meatballs. With the exception of the oil, combine all ingredients into a large mixing bowl.

Wet your hands and begin forming 2-inch meatballs. Place them on a flat surface covered in wax or parchment paper.

Preheat your skillet to medium heat. Add in olive oil and then place your meatballs in the pan. Brown each side for a couple of minutes. Do not worry about cooking them all the way through.

Note: It is normal for meatballs to stick to the pan. This is fine, and in fact, enhances the flavor of the sauce you will be preparing soon!

Once browned on all sides, drain your meatballs on a plate lined with paper towels.

Directions for Sauce

Drain the fat from the skillet, leaving in at least 1 teaspoon for further cooking. Then set your skillet to medium heat.

Once hot, add in your garlic and onion and allow them to cook down for a few minutes.

Note: Now is the time to add in your wine or vermouth if you like. Use this liquid to scrape up the bits of meat stuck to the pan.

Next, add in the tomatoes, salt, oregano, pepper flakes, olives, lemon zest, mint, and parsley. Bring everything to a simmer.

Once simmering, add the meatballs to your pan and cover it with a lid. Cook on a low simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.

Garnish with the juice of 1 full lemon, thinly sliced mint leaves, roughly chopped parsley, and crumbled feta.

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