Outdoor Buffet Party Menu: A Late-Summer Celebration

Summer_Buffet

Setting up a buffet is the most kid-friendly way to entertain, and is sure to please everyone. Even picky eaters will find something to like with a table full of tasty options. Food is self-serve, paper plates are totally acceptable, and the menu is usually made of up make-ahead items, or those that can be cooked quickly at the last minute.

I always host a small party to say farewell to summer, and while I begin the season with a Canada Day party, I like to end it with something simpler. Here’s my ideal buffet outdoor party menu for late summer, a make-ahead feast that can be prepped a day or so in advance, and warmed just before serving.

The Main Dish:

Pulled pork sandwiches are hit with almost everyone. Set up the items self-serve style and let your guests build their own sandwiches.

SIDE DISHES:

Choose two or three of the following options, but be sure to pick at least one ‘fresh’ item to help offset the richness of the main dish.

DRINKS:

To make things easy on yourself, serve pitchers instead of individual portions, except for beer, and be sure to offer at least a few non-alcoholic options.

DESSERT:

Keep things simple and serve seasonal desserts like pie, crisps, crumbles or bars — store-bought is fine — topped with vanilla ice cream. Or make the easiest cake ever that’s sure to please the entire crowd.

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