Wedding Feast for 100: Recipes and Planning Tips
Planning a wedding for 100 guests is a significant undertaking, and the catering is a crucial aspect. This guide provides delicious and scalable recipes, along with practical tips to ensure your wedding feast is a resounding success. Remember, adjust quantities based on your guests' appetites and anticipated leftovers.
Choosing Your Menu: A Balancing Act
The key to a successful wedding menu is balance. Consider a variety of flavors, textures, and dietary needs. Aim for a mix of:
- Appetizers: Lighter options to start the meal, like mini quiches, bruschetta, or spring rolls.
- Main Courses: Offer at least two options to cater to different preferences – one meat and one vegetarian or fish option are usually a good choice.
- Side Dishes: Complement the main courses with flavorful sides, such as roasted vegetables, salads, or mashed potatoes.
- Dessert: A beautiful wedding cake is essential, but consider adding other sweet treats like cupcakes, cookies, or a dessert bar for variety.
Scalable Recipes for a Crowd
These recipes are designed to be easily multiplied for larger quantities. Remember to use large commercial-grade equipment or multiple smaller ovens/stoves if necessary.
Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Herbs (Serves 100)
- Ingredients: 100 whole chickens (about 3-4 lbs each), 100 lemons (halved), 500 sprigs fresh rosemary and thyme, 500 cloves garlic, 25 cups olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chickens in large roasting pans. Stuff cavities with lemon halves, herbs, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, season generously. Roast for 1.5-2 hours, or until cooked through.
Vegetarian Lasagna (Serves 100)
- Ingredients: 50 lasagne sheets, 25 lbs ricotta cheese, 25 lbs marinara sauce, 10 lbs mozzarella cheese, 5 lbs Parmesan cheese, 10 lbs vegetables (such as zucchini, spinach, mushrooms).
- Instructions: Layer lasagna sheets, ricotta mixture, marinara sauce, and vegetables in large baking pans. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
Simple Green Salad (Serves 100)
- Ingredients: 25 lbs mixed greens, 10 lbs cherry tomatoes (halved), 5 lbs cucumbers (sliced), 5 lbs red onion (thinly sliced), 2.5 gallons Italian dressing.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in large bowls. Toss gently and serve.
Planning and Logistics: The Unsung Heroes
- Delegate: Don't try to do everything yourself. Enlist the help of friends, family, or professional caterers.
- Prep Ahead: Many components can be made days in advance, reducing stress on the wedding day.
- Buffet vs. Plated: A buffet is generally more cost-effective and allows guests to choose what they want, but plated service is more formal.
- Dietary Restrictions: Be sure to cater to guests with dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies). Clearly label dishes.
- Servingware & Utensils: Ensure you have enough plates, cutlery, glasses, and serving dishes.
- Food Safety: Follow safe food handling practices throughout the preparation and service process.
Making it Memorable
Beyond the recipes, consider the presentation. Beautiful table settings, elegant serving platters, and thoughtful decorations will elevate the entire dining experience. Remember to focus on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, allowing your guests to fully enjoy the celebration. Congratulations!
