Catering Ideas for a Teenage Shindig at Home

My kids just loved having friends over for a get together. Whether it was for fun or for a study group, they all enjoyed helping out. I have found that teens like to be involved in the process. I would provide the main ingredients and let them do the assembly. Below are some of the ideas that have worked well.

• Fondue. Fondue can be fun around the holidays. Simple prep time and tons of interactivity. This is an especially good option for the picky eaters in the group. All of the prep work can be done ahead of time. Chop vegetables, breads, pre-cooked chicken, and ham into bite sized chunks. When selecting vegetables use firm textures like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots or peppers so they will stay on the dipping forks. There are many possible dipping choices but cheese fondue is easy and goes over well with teens. Pre-cooking the meat will allow for quick service. For dessert chop a variety of fruits like strawberries, kiwis, bananas or applies to dip in a chocolate fondue.
• Pizza. Build your own pizzas is another interactive idea that is a big hit. What teen doesn't love pizza? Again, prep time can be in advance, provide sauce, grated cheese, green peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni, sausage, hamburger, onions and jalapenos. I like to use Boboli bread for a crust; it is the perfect size for a personal pizza.
• Taco. Teens also seem to be fond of Mexican food. Creating a taco bar is simple; provide hamburger, grated cheese, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, salsa and sour cream. By providing soft taco shells and refried beans teens could choose burritos as well.
• Sandwich bar. In the summer time a platter of cold cuts, cheeses, breads, bagels or wraps can make an easy and impromptu gathering a success.
• Spaghetti or Lasagna. Italian night can be a huge success and easy to do. Once again, prep work can take place well in advance of the gathering. Add a salad and garlic bread.
• Chili. Chili served in bread bowls can make a filling dinner with minimal prep time. Add sour cream and cheese for toppings. Serving in a bread bowl also cuts down on clean up time.
• Brownie Pizza. Most teens love chocolate. Put a spin on traditional brownies by baking them in a thin crust, top the crust with cream cheese mixture then top with sliced fruit and drizzle with chocolate sauce and chopped nuts.

Whether or not the catering is outsourced or do-it-yourself, the above ideas are all inexpensive and easy ways to feed a hungry group of teens. Keep it simple and get them involved in the process and everyone will have a terrific time.