Planning a party and don't know how many appetizers or hors d'oeuvres to serve per person? You're not alone! This can be a tricky question, but it's important to get it right so that you don't run out of food or end up with too much left over.
In this blog post, we will provide you with a guide to perfect portions for your next party.
🧑🏻🤝🧑🏻How Many Appetizers to Serve Per Person?
The number of appetizers per person can vary depending on several factors, including the type of event, the duration of the event, the size of the appetizers, and the presence of other food options. However, here are some general guidelines to help you plan:
1. Cocktail Parties or Receptions: For a cocktail party where appetizers are the main food, you may want to plan for 8-12 appetizers per person per hour. These can be a mix of hot and cold options.
2. Buffet-Style Events: If you're offering a variety of appetizers as part of a buffet or a larger meal, plan for 3-5 appetizers per person. This assumes that there will be other food items available as well.
3. Sit-Down Dinners: If you're serving appetizers before a sit-down dinner, 2-3 appetizers per person are generally sufficient. These appetizers are meant to whet the appetite without filling guests up before the main course.
4. Heavy Hors d'Oeuvres: For events with heavy hors d'oeuvres where appetizers are substantial and meant to replace a full meal, aim for 5-8 pieces per person.
5. Event Duration: The duration of your event matters. If it's a short gathering, you may need fewer appetizers per person compared to a longer event.
7. Guest List: The number of guests can also influence your calculations. Larger gatherings may require more appetizers to ensure everyone has enough to eat.
8. Type of Appetizers: Some appetizers are more filling than others. Mini sandwiches or sliders, for example, might be heartier than bite-sized caprese skewers.
It's always a good idea to communicate with your caterer or use your own judgment based on your knowledge of your guests and the specifics of your event. You can also consider conducting a taste test or getting feedback from a few trusted individuals to fine-tune your appetizer quantities.
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Catering your party? Here is a list of appetizers perfect for catering!
How many hors d'oeuvres per person?
This depends on the type of event, duration of event and type of hors d'oeuvres. A longer event without dinner will require 6-10 hors d'oeuvres per person.
If dinner is being served, 4-6 hors d'oeuvres per person might be the best option.
If the hors d'oeuvres are larger, less will be needed and vice versa.
Consider The Type Of Party
A cocktail party or for a wedding cocktail hour, you are going to need more appetizers than a standard dinner party. Guests at a cocktail party are grazing throughout the evening and are not expecting a large meal when they arrive.
A standard dinner party usually has one or two hours where guests are seated and eating their meal. Plan to have enough food for everyone during that time frame. If you're having an open house-style party, you'll need even more food!
Consider The Size & Type Of Appetizers
If you're serving small bites like canapés, Hors d’œuvres or skewers, plan on serving about 12-15 pieces per person . These tend to be light and easy to eat, so guests will likely snack on them throughout the party.
If you are serving vegetables or carb-free bites, they will not be as filling as meats and breads. One bite appetizers are very small and often go down much easier and quicker. You
How Many Appetizers Do I Need For 50 Guests?
For about 50 guests at 4-5 bites per person, we can calculate about 225 appetizers. If you are not serving dinner, this number might be higher. Don't forget to consider how large your appetizers are too. Most standard appetizers are able to be consumed in 2-3 bites.
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Appetizers To Serve
Before finalizing your menu, you want to make sure you ask your guests if they have any dietary restrictions or allergies. If you don't have the chance to do this, play it safe and err on the side of caution.
To do this, serve vegetarian options as well as gluten free and or dairy free appetizers. You can of course throw a nice filet appetizer in there too. Mixing it up is the key to happy guests.
Vegetarian Options:
Vegetarian Eggplant Party Sandwiches
Easy Vegetarian Empanadas
Creamy Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms
Final Tips
Of course, these are just general guidelines - you may need to adjust depending on the specific appetizers that you choose. Always use chafing dishes to keep your appetizers warm!
And don't forget about dessert! If you're serving sweets as well as savory snacks, account for one or two additional desserts per person.
Now that you know how many appetizers to serve per person, it's time to start planning your menu!
If you're not sure what type of appetizer to serve, check out these posts below!
21 Holiday Party Finger Foods That Everyone Will Love
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