New York event planners are gearing up for the summer season of company outings, employee parties, and corporate events. And if you’re looking to change up your food and beverage options, these are the popular summer snacks and delectable fare to add to the corporate event menu.
Be warned - this list is going to get your tummy rumbling and your mouth watering!
1. Salty and Savory Appetizers
Event planners go all-out when it comes to curating engaging and fun summer outings and corporate events. But don’t forget to bring your A-game with the savory snacks and appetizers. What you serve as a precursor to the main meal can help elevate your event in a big way. Consider some of these savory morsels and talk with your catering partners about introducing new salty and delicious, waitstaff-served favorites.
- Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
- Pork or Beef Sliders
- Caprese Kabobs
- Mini Crab Cakes
- Mini Club Sandwich bites
2. Fruity Favorites
It’s always a great idea to introduce fruit or fruit-based snacks at every corporate event or company celebration. Fruit is a light summertime favorite. But it also has energizing properties, offering brilliant colors to an otherwise bland tray of appetizers or snacks. Fruit recipes are also fan-favorites among those guests who prefer gluten-free and vegan options.
- Peach or Strawberry Bruschetta
- Watermelon Salsa
- Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
- Bacon Apple Poppers
- Classic Mini Fruit Cups
3. Dips That Sing
Nothing says summer like a festive and fun dip! Get creative with the dip recipes you offer when planning your summer outings and corporate events. Customize the snacking experience, too, by offering different dipping chips, breads, pretzels, and pitas.
- Creamy Corn and Chile Dip
- Grilled Guacamole Dip
- Grilled Quesos
- Chorizo Jack Dip
- Pizza Dips
4. Delightful Finger-Food Desserts
After the event meal has been served, and your corporate event or summer outing guests are settling in for the final leg of the event itinerary, it’s a great time to introduce sweet treats. Check out some of these delightful finger-food desserts for inspiration. Your guests may not be interested in indulging in that traditional piece of cake. But they’ll always love and appreciate an easy-to-eat dessert.
- No Bake Peanut Butter Bars
- Candy-Coated Pretzels
- Strawberry Shortcake Bites
- Mini Lemon or Blueberry Tarts
- Rum Cherry Ice Cream Cups
5. New Takes On Classic Corporate Event Snacks
Depending on your summer corporate event attendee list, some might prefer to snack on classic appetizers, afraid to sample too new or trendy bites. Be mindful of your event audience when selecting your menu. But don’t be afraid to explore new versions of old classics to keep things interesting and fresh!
- Deviled Egg Bites
- BBQ Shrimp Kabobs
- Fried Zucchini Sticks
- Chicken Caesar Crouton Cups
- Prosciutto Flatbread Bites
Are you hungry yet? As a New York event planner, you’ll want every aspect of your summer outing excursion or corporate event to be engaging and celebrated. Don’t hesitate to get a little creative with the snacks and appetizers you decide to offer. The right snack menu can add to the energy and atmosphere of your event!
Speaking of energy and atmosphere, do you have your tickets yet for The Event Planner Expo 2023? Mark your calendars and learn more about all the opportunities to participate and attend this October! You’ll find more event planning inspiration over three days of intense networking with events industry professionals than you can all year!
