Catering Trends for Your Event

Some events take a several hours to a whole day to conduct, such as golf meetings, wedding receptions, and even conventions. This is why it is not surprising that food catering on the site can be spotted, and understandably event planners try to stay ahead when it comes to providing the next big food and beverage or catering trend.

Different events demand for a corresponding style of catering. Large conventions may actually do not need catering, as food and beverages can be provided by sponsors setting up booths in the venue. Meanwhile, "grander" events like weddings should not be given a half-hearted treatment when it comes to catering. Here are some trends in catering according to the National Restaurant Association 2008 annual chef survey. Make sure to consult your caterer when it comes to mixing and matching cuisines.

Cuisine - Ethnic Fusion is the top trend in catering for formal events, while Latin American cuisine is also being served in parties especially if majority of the guests are Hispanics. Staple favorites Mediterranean and Thai food are still requested by event planners, with Pan-Asian cuisine not far behind.

Appetizers - Asian-inspired appetizers like vegetable dimsum are a great starters for today's events, while Carpaccio (thinly sliced raw beef or tuna) is slowly gaining acceptance in mainstream American attendants. Staple trends like seafood and vegetarian fares can still be served on the table, or you can add a twist to the buffet by serving Tex-Mex appetizers like fajitas and chili con carne.

Entrees and salads - It is recommend that there should be at least two different types of salads on the menu: one is completely vegetarian, the other with enough servings of meat toppings like salmon and beef. Other entrees that can be included are tapas (cocktail-sized meats served in small plates), specialty sandwiches, and even dishes using meats from grass-fed, free-range, or sustainable animals.

Vegetarian dish - If a lot of the guests are vegetarians, you should be considerate that they are not just a bunch of salad eaters. Vegetarian dishes are more than just that, as some vegetarians can eat micro-vegetables, exotic mushrooms, meatless pasta, or even dishes with vegetable-based meat substitutes. However, if most of your guests are vegans, who eat only vegetables and not any trace of animal by-products like eggs or oil, you may need to provide a menu that completely caters to them. Make sure that the greens provided by the caterer are locally-produced and organically-grown.

Main dish - When it comes to main dishes, steaks and barbecues will always be an American favorite. However, if your client asks for something unique, you can provide Asian or Mexican dishes on the menu.

Fruits - Add some zest to the menu by providing an array of unusual fruit that will satisfy the curious guests. Examples include pomegranates, dragon fruits, figs, passion fruit, prickly pear, and even cactus (yes, it's actually edible).

Grains, legumes, and nuts - With rice and risotto becoming passe, the likes of couscous and quinoa are taking over the grains department. You could also go adventurous and include Bulgur wheat especially if your event is Middle Eastern-inspired. Whole wheat pastas are also trendy for 2008.

Bread - Of most of the guest is not into the South Beach Diet, it can help if you include bread in your menu. Examples include flatbreads, ciabatta, and foccaccia. Just make sure that it is low in carbohydrates and, if possible, made from whole grains.

Desserts - Gelatos are all the rage among Americans, as this smooth and buttermilk-laden variety of ice cream are available in a wide range of flavors including lemon, hazelnut, and any crazy flavor you can imagine. Other wonderful dessert trends include cheese platters, dark chocolates, and bite-sized treats.

Non-alcoholic beverages - Provide a generous supply of bottled water in the event, although you could put it up a notch by serving filtered or flavored water. Specialty coffees and tea are also great suggestions.

Alcoholic beverages - If you want more than wine, try including some new faves like microbrewed beer, flavored martinis, mojito, and even cocktails laced with energy drinks.