Sandwiches are the perfect addition to any graduation party. They are easy to eat, customizable, and can be made in advance. Whether you’re looking for a classic club sandwich or something a bit more adventurous, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 sandwiches catering a graduation party, as well as some tips for making and serving them.
A graduation party is a special occasion that requires careful planning and consideration. Sandwiches are a popular choice for catering because they are easy to prepare, serve, and eat. They can be customized to suit a variety of dietary needs and preferences, and they are cost-effective, making them a great option for budget-conscious hosts.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sandwiches for Graduation Parties
When selecting sandwiches for your graduation party, there are a few key factors to consider:
Dietary restrictions
It’s important to take into account any dietary restrictions your guests may have, such as allergies or vegetarian/vegan preferences. Make sure you have options available that cater to these needs.
Number of guests
You’ll need to determine how many sandwiches you’ll need based on the number of guests attending your party. It’s always better to have a bit too much food than not enough.
Budget
Sandwiches are a cost-effective catering option, but you’ll still need to consider your budget when selecting ingredients and toppings.
Time of day and duration of the event
The time of day and length of your graduation party will also impact your sandwich selection. If your party is during lunch or dinner hours, you may want to provide heartier sandwich options. If your party is shorter in duration, you may want to offer lighter snack-style sandwiches.
The Top 5 Sandwiches for Graduation Parties
Here are our top 5 sandwich picks for graduation parties:
Classic Club Sandwich
The classic club sandwich is a timeless favorite that is sure to please a crowd. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients and preparation
- Sliced turkey
- Ham
- Bacon
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Mayonnaise
- Toasted bread
Layer the ingredients between the toasted bread and cut into quarters.
Serving suggestions
Serve with a side of potato chips or sweet potato fries.
Italian Submarine Sandwich
The Italian submarine sandwich is a hearty option that is perfect for meat-lovers. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients and preparation
- Salami
- Ham
- Pepperoni
- Provolone cheese
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Onion
- Mayonnaise
- Italian dressing
- Submarine roll
Layer the ingredients onto the submarine roll and drizzle with Italian dressing.
Serving suggestions
Serve with a side of pasta salad.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich
The BBQ pulled pork sandwich is a delicious and satisfying option that is perfect for summer graduation parties. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients and preparation
- Pulled pork
- BBQ sauce
- Coleslaw
- Bun
Mix the pulled pork with BBQ sauce and serve on a bun topped with coleslaw.
Serving suggestions
Serve with a side of baked beans.
Vegetarian Falafel Sandwich
For vegetarian guests, the falafel sandwich is a great option that is full of flavor. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients and preparation
- Falafel balls
- Hummus
- Cucumber
- Tomato
- Lettuce
- Pita bread
Stuff the pita bread with falafel balls, hummus, and vegetables.
Serving suggestions
Serve with a side of tabbouleh.
Ingredients and preparation
- Grilled chicken
- Caesar dressing
- Romaine lettuce
- Parmesan cheese
- Tortilla wrap
Mix the grilled chicken with Caesar dressing and layer it onto a tortilla wrap with lettuce and Parmesan cheese.
Serving suggestions
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or vegetable sticks.
Sandwich Toppings and Condiments
In addition to the main ingredients of your sandwiches, you’ll want to provide a variety of toppings and condiments so that guests can customize their sandwiches to their liking. Some popular options include:
- Mustard
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
- Pickles
- Onions
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Cheese
- Avocado
Make sure to label any toppings or condiments that may contain allergens, such as nuts or dairy.
Sides and Desserts to Accompany Sandwiches
While sandwiches can be a meal on their own, you’ll want to provide some sides and desserts to round out your catering menu. Here are some ideas:
Side dishes that pair well with sandwiches
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Pasta salad
- Chips and dip
- Vegetable sticks and hummus
Dessert options that are easy to serve and crowd-pleasers
- Brownies
- Cookies
- Fruit salad
- Ice cream sundaes
- Cupcakes
How to Make Sandwiches Ahead of Time
To save time and minimize stress on the day of your graduation party, it’s a good idea to prepare your sandwiches in advance. Here are some tips for doing so:
- Use fresh ingredients
- Keep sandwiches refrigerated until ready to serve
- Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out
- Consider using a deli-style sandwich press to create sandwiches that hold up well
Proper Storage and Transportation of Sandwiches
If you’re transporting your sandwiches to a different location for your graduation party, it’s important to keep them at the appropriate temperature to prevent spoilage. Here are some tips:
- Use a cooler or insulated bag to transport sandwiches
- Pack sandwiches with ice packs to keep them cool
- Keep sandwiches out of direct sunlight
- Transport sandwiches as close to serving time as possible
Serving Sandwiches at a Graduation Party
Setting up a sandwich station is a great way to allow guests to customize their sandwiches and keep everything organized. Here are some tips:
- Provide a variety of bread options
- Label all ingredients and toppings
- Keep condiments and toppings in separate bowls or containers
- Consider setting up different stations for hot and cold sandwiches
Beverage Pairings for Sandwiches
When selecting beverages to serve with your sandwiches, consider flavors that complement each sandwich. Here are some suggestions:
- Iced tea or lemonade with the classic club sandwich
- Beer or red wine with the Italian submarine sandwich
- Sweet tea or lemonade with the BBQ pulled pork sandwich
- Sparkling water or white wine with the vegetarian falafel sandwich
- Iced tea or lemonade with the chicken Caesar wrap
Sandwiches for Graduation Parties on a Budget
Catering a graduation party can be expensive, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing taste. Here are some ideas:
- Make sandwiches yourself instead of ordering from a catering company
- Use affordable ingredients, such as deli meat and pre-made bread
- Opt for a DIY sandwich station instead of pre-made sandwiches
- Ask friends and family to bring a sandwich topping or side dish to share
Conclusion
Sandwiches are a versatile and delicious catering option for graduation parties. By considering factors such as dietary restrictions, number of guests, and budget, you can select the perfect sandwich options for your event. Whether you opt for classic club sandwiches, Italian submarines, BBQ pulled pork, vegetarian falafel, or chicken Caesar wraps, your guests are sure to be satisfied. Don’t forget to provide a variety of toppings and condiments, as well as sides and desserts, and to make and transport your sandwiches properly to ensure freshness and appeal. With these tips and suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to successful sandwich catering at your graduation party.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sandwiches should I plan per guest?
A general rule of thumb is to plan for 1-2 sandwiches per guest, depending on the time of day and length of the event. It’s always better to have a bit too much food than not enough.
What is the best way to transport sandwiches to a graduation party?
The best way to transport sandwiches to a graduation party is to use a cooler or insulated bag with ice packs to keep them cool. Make sure to keep sandwiches out of direct sunlight and transport them as close to serving time as possible.
Can I make sandwiches the day before the party?
Yes, you can make sandwiches the day before the party, but it’s important to keep them refrigerated until ready to serve. Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
What is the best way to keep sandwiches fresh during the party?
The best way to keep sandwiches fresh during the party is to serve them as soon as possible after preparation. Keep sandwiches refrigerated until ready to serve and provide a cooler or insulated bag with ice packs to keep them cool.
