Are you looking to host a casual dinner party that will leave your guests raving about the food? Sometimes, the best gatherings are the ones where the atmosphere is relaxed, the conversation flows naturally, and the food is both delicious and easy to prepare.
To help you create a memorable experience, we’ve compiled some unique yet simple menu ideas for your next casual dinner party.
Taco Bar
A taco bar is a fantastic way to please a variety of tastes. Offer a selection of proteins like seasoned ground beef, grilled chicken, and sautéed shrimp, or vegetarian options such as black beans, jackfruit and aubergine. Include a range of toppings such as salsa, guacamole, diced onions, cilantro, and pickled jalapeños. Provide either soft tortillas or crunchy taco shells to wrap everything up in and you’re done!
Mediterranean Mezze Platter
Create a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter with an assortment of flavourful dishes.
Include items like hummus, tzatziki, stuffed grape leaves, olives, feta cheese, and pita bread.
Add some grilled vegetables and falafel for extra variety.
DIY Pizza
Set up a DIY pizza station with pre-made pizza dough and a variety of toppings.
Offer classic options like marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and mushrooms.
Get creative with unique toppings like rocket, prosciutto, goat cheese, honey and fig spread.
Build-Your-Own Bowl
As another DIY option for your more health-conscious guests who don’t want to sacrifice flavour, why not opt for a healthy and customisable bowl option? Offer a base of brown rice or quinoa and a variety of proteins like grilled chicken, tofu, or even grilled shrimp. Add a selection of colourful veggies, sauces, and toppings like sriracha mayo, sesame seeds, and chopped nuts.
Barbecue (Any Weather)
It doesn’t have to be a summer day to cook some hearty BBQ food. In fact, cooking indoors on the grill might mean you can get a little more creative than the traditional burgers and sausages in buns. Think pork ribs glazed in teriyaki sauce, marinated chicken, and halloumi or plant-based burgers for the vegetarians, paired with seasoned potatoes and salad options.
Ceviche
If you want to bring the flavours of the seaside to your dinner party, then consider a ceviche bar. Prepare a variety of ceviche options such as classic lime-marinated shrimp, citrusy scallops, or tangy mango and avocado. Serve with tortilla chips or plantain chips for a delightful crunch.
Tapas
The small-plate, communal style of tapas makes it perfect for casual get-togethers as you split dishes and indulge in some of the finest Spanish flavours. However, you’ll have to trim down your menu and prepare just a few dishes if you are cooking yourself or you’ll quickly become overwhelmed! Serve classic dishes like patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce), garlic shrimp, chorizo in red wine, and stuffed mushrooms, with plenty of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauces.
Grazing Tables
For a truly casual experience, consider a grazing table. Completely customisable with as little or as much cooking required as you would like, grazing tables allow your guests to eat as much or as little as they want. You could choose a classic charcuterie and cheese grazing table or choose your items based on a specific cuisine. As with the tapas, make sure to provide plenty of bread or crackers so everyone can fill up, as well as gluten free alternatives if your guests have dietary requirements.
These unique yet easy-to-prepare menu ideas are sure to impress your guests at your casual dinner party. Whatever you choose, the key is to keep it relaxed and enjoyable. With good food and great company, your dinner party is bound to be a hit. So, go ahead and try one of these ideas to create a memorable dining experience for your friends and loved ones. Bon appétit!
If you would rather not do the cooking yourself, but want to leave a truly memorable impression on your guests, then why not hire us here at Coast & Country to provide delicious catering using the finest ingredients the South West has to offer. Please get in touch to learn more.