Small business meetings and informal social get togethers are the specialty for some caterers, while other catering companies like those in Minneapolis, focus on wedding ceremonies and other large-scale functions. The caterers who target smaller gatherings are likely to handle a broader number of functions and for that reason normally have a broader variety of menu items to select from. They may be called upon to cater breakfast meetings, lunch gatherings or dinner functions. The following are some examples of food items many caterers provide as part of their menu options:
Breakfasts
- Rise and Shine Platters – An assortment of bagels, muffins and danishes with whipped butter, jam and cream cheese.
- Continental Breakfasts – In addition to an assortment of muffins, danishes and bagels, continental breakfasts also include an assortment of chilled fruit juices, freshly brewed coffee and an assortment of fresh fruit.
- Breakfast Bagel Platters – A variety of bagels served with tomatoes, cream cheese and various sliced cheeses.
- Hot breakfast options may also be available, including bacon, sausage, eggs, hash browns, pancakes, etc.
Cold Lunches
- Sandwich Platters – Made on a variety of freshly baked breads, stuffed with tuna or egg salad or deli meats.
- Wrap Platters – Wraps stuffed with salads and meats and fresh vegetables.
- Deli Platters – An assortment of meats including ham, salami, turkey and roast beef. Accompanied with a variety of buns and breads.
- Party Sandwiches – Finger and triangle sandwiches filled with tuna, cream cheese, salmon salad and egg salad.
- Cheese Platters – A variety of cheese (cheddar, swiss and mozzarella) and crackers.
- Fruit Platters – An assortment of sliced melons, strawberries, grapes, kiwi and oranges.
- Vegetable Platters – Bite-sized vegetables and dip.
Hot Lunches/Dinners (often served with rice or pasta and a salad)
- Lasagna – Layers of lasagna, meat and cheese. Vegetarian options are often available.
- Penne Alfredo – Hearty penne pasta in a creamy mushroom alfredo sauce.
- Veal or Chicken Parmigiana – Pasta served with chicken or veal, mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce.
- Shepherd’s Pie – Layers of ground beef, mashed potato and vegetables.
- Chicken Stir Fry – Stir-fried chicken and vegetables.
- Butter Chicken – Chicken in a mild sauce.
Salads
- Garden Salad – Lettuce with a selection of seasonal vegetables.
- Caesar Salad – Romaine lettuce, croutons, crumbled bacon bits and parmesan cheese.
- Sunshine Salad – Baby spinach, romaine lettuce, red onion rings, kiwi, strawberries, dried cranberries, mandarin oranges, grated mozzarella and sunflower seeds.
- Greek Salad – Romaine lettuce, red onions, black olives and feta cheese.
Desserts
- Dessert Loaf Platter – An selection of banana, pumpkin, banana chocolate, and lemon-poppy seed breads.
- Cookie Patter – A variety of cookies.
- Pastry Tray – Various pastries and croissants.
- Dessert Platter – An assortment of desserts such as: brownies, carrot cake, fruit squares, nanaimo bars and tarts.