What’s great about sandwiches is that they are easy to make, and as a food option, they’re great for just about any event.
But here is the thing; you have to think about what types to serve. And this boils down to the event, but most importantly, the guests.
While you might go with the classics like ham and cheese or turkey, you may want to think outside the box. And that’s what we are going to do here.
Let’s look at some sandwich catering ideas, including some popular types of sandwiches. Also, check out our selection of catering supplies and disposables that could come in handy for presenting and serving a variety of sandwiches.
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Sandwich Buffet Ideas
What makes a good sandwich is the bread and the fillings. The bread should be fresh and crispy, not stale or soggy. The fillings should be fresh, flavorful, and plentiful.
But beyond this, consider what bread choices and fillings will make up your sandwich platters.
Bread Options
Creating a sandwich catering menu isn’t just about the fillings; picking the right bread is just as important.
The idea is to offer guests a variety of options to choose from. So you’ll want to find breads that work well with different types of sandwich fillings and that cater to the guests’ dietary restrictions.
Some popular and great options include white bread, wheat bread, sourdough bread, and rye bread, just to name a few. You could also include wraps, rolls, and buns for those guests who may want something lighter.
However, keep in mind that when choosing the types of bread, don’t provide too many choices, as that could end up being costly on your part.
Two to four choices should be sufficient, especially if you’re offering a variety of fillings.
Assorted Fillings
When it comes to sandwich fillings, the possibilities are almost endless. By offering an assortment of fillings, you’ll ensure that there’s something for everyone on your sandwich catering menu.
Here are some ideas for different types of fillings:
Meats
- Sliced deli meats like turkey, ham, roast beef, and chicken
- Grilled or fried chicken breasts or tenders
- Bacon or pancetta to add a savory crunch
- Pulled pork or shredded beef for hearty, flavorful sandwiches
- Salami, capicola, and pepperoni for classic Italian options
- Tuna, egg, or chicken salad for creamy, flavorful choices
Cheeses
- Cheddar, Swiss, provolone, mozzarella, and pepper jack are popular favorites
- Brie or goat cheese for a more upscale, distinct flavor
- Blue cheese or gorgonzola for a bold choice
- Vegan cheese options for dairy-free guests
Vegetables
- Lettuce, spinach, or arugula for fresh greens
- Tomato, cucumber, avocado, and bell peppers for colorful additions
- Red onion, pickles, jalapenos, olives, or banana peppers for some tangy and spicy options
- Roasted or grilled veggies like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms for a savory touch
Other Fillings
- Spreads like mayo, mustard, aioli, or pesto for added flavor
- Hummus or guacamole for a creamy, vegetarian option
- Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro for some brightness
- Fruit slices like apples or pears for a unique, sweet twist
- Nuts such as sliced almonds or walnuts for a crunchy element
Types of Sandwiches
Some popular sandwiches you might want to include in your sandwich buffet menu include:
- Deli sandwiches – These have sliced meat, cheese, vegetables, and condiments served on an oblong roll. Turkey, ham, roast beef, and chicken are common deli meat choices.
- Hoagies – These are quite similar to deli sandwiches but are usually served on an Italian or hoagie roll. Hoagies often contain multiple layers of meat and cheese. Common varieties are turkey, ham, and Italian with salami, capicola, and pepperoni.
- Subs – Interchangeable with hoagies, subs have the same elongated roll shape. They are known for hearty fillings layered with meat, cheese, and veggies.
- Clubs – These are triple-decker sandwiches with three slices of bread, two layers each of turkey or chicken, bacon, lettuce, and tomato.
- Wraps – Instead of regular bread, wrap sandwiches use a tortilla or flatbread. Choices like chicken, turkey, and veggie wraps make excellent options for handheld snacking.
- Panini – These Italian sandwiches are made with bread grilled with fillings inside to melt the cheese. Paninis often include meats like ham or salami, vegetables, and condiments like aioli or pesto mayo.
Wrap Up
When creating a sandwich buffet menu, be as considerate of your guests’ dietary needs as you are of their taste buds.
By offering a variety of options that include vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan sandwiches, you can make sure everyone has something delicious to enjoy.
Sources
- Olivia’s Cuisine. (n.d.). Build-Your-Own Sandwich Platter. Retrieved from https://www.oliviascuisine.com/build-your-own-sandwich-platter/
- The Spruce Eats. (2020, September 17.). How to Throw a Build-Your-Own-Sandwich Party. Retrieved from https://www.thespruceeats.com/make-ahead-sandwich-buffet-party-480166
- Rich’s Catering. (n.d.). 5 Sandwich Platter Ideas That are Anything but Boring. Retrieved from https://www.richscatering.com/5-sandwich-platter-ideas-that-are-anything-but-boring/
