![\"what-are-the-types-of-cocktail-food-for-weddings\"](\"https:\/\/assets.easyweddings.com\/files\/2021\/10\/30110513\/what-are-the-types-of-cocktail-food-for-weddings.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Perhaps you have decided against a traditional sit-down dinner and would prefer the relaxed feel of cocktail reception – or maybe you’re seeking some extra special nibbles for to serve during cocktail hour? These tips will help you make your wedding cocktail food stand out from the crowd.<\/p>\n
Cocktail food<\/a> is essentially small portions of food that can be eaten without cutlery, and due to this is it is often referred to as\u00a0‘finger food’. Cocktail food is generally served at parties, functions and weddings, and is usually brought to guests via waiters and waitresses on large trays. Whilst most portion sizes are usually bite sized, larger portions of cocktail food such as salads or seafood can be served in small containers with a fork. Cocktail food should be easy to eat in the absence of a table and easy to hold in one hand if need be, allowing guests to hold a drink in the other.<\/p>\n Canapes are traditionally small pieces of bread or pastry with a topping and garnish, however people sometimes use the word canapes as a blanket term to refer to all cocktail food. Canapes can be served hot or cold and are generally savoury.<\/p>\n Hors d’oeuvres (pronounced or-derves<\/em>), translates to ‘outside the meal’, which suggests they should be served prior to a main course. Hors d’oeuvres are typically savoury and can be eaten in two bites, making them perfect for cocktail parties, as guests can eat them easily whilst talking and mingling.<\/p>\n Appetizers are essentially cocktail food that is served prior to a main course, therefore cocktail food served at a cocktail reception would not be referred to as appetizers, whereas cocktail food served during cocktail hour prior to a sit-down meal would be referred to as appetizers. Appetizers tend be larger in portion size than hors d’oeuvres, and may be served in small containers with a fork.<\/p>\n An amuse-bouche is a single, bite-sized hors d’oeuvre, and is usually complimentary. A chef may choose to serve amuse-bouche to complement drinks prior to a sit-down meal, or to simply to provide guests with a taste of what’s to come.<\/p>\n Your guests will undoubtedly have spent some time and money<\/a> getting dressed for your wedding, so you don’t want them to be covered in spaghetti sauce half way through cocktail hour. Find foods that are easy to pick up and eat with the fingers, and try to stick to bite sized morsels to save crumbs and mess. If you want to serve something with a sauce, try using Chinese spoons or another type of small bowl with a co-coordinating fork or spoon.<\/p>\n A great cocktail food<\/a> menu will complement the drink menu. It’s best to discuss with the venue<\/a>‘s staff what food and drink combinations work best. They will be able to guide in your terms of what items on the menu are popular and recommend any great pairings.<\/p>\n Mixing hot and cold items allows for a wide range of variety, tastes and textures. If you are having a cocktail reception, generally cold canapes are brought out to begin with and as the evening progresses hot food is brought out. However, it’s really up to you and depending on your location and the climate you may want to stick with predominately one or the other. For example, in a very hot, tropical climate you may want to serve more cold food as opposed to hot, however providing a mixture is always best.<\/p>\n If you are hosting a cocktail reception in lieu of a sit-down dinner you may want to ensure that the amount of cocktail food per person is sufficient. The staff at your chosen venue<\/a> will direct you and help you decide how many cocktail items to serve per person if you are unsure.\u00a0If you are planning the cocktail hour prior to a sit-down reception then you would not require a large amount per person.<\/p>\n Providing a wide range of dishes is a good way to make sure everyone can find something they like. Some of your guests may have a food intolerance or not be able to eat certain foods so it may be wise to include vegetarian, vegan, dairy free or gluten free options in your menu. Also, some guests may not be able to tolerate spicy food so try to have some lighter options for the palette too.<\/p>\nWhat are the different types of cocktail food?<\/h2>\n
Canapes<\/h3>\n
Hors d’oeuvres<\/h3>\n
Appetizers<\/h3>\n
Amuse-bouche<\/h3>\n
![\"Wedding](\"https:\/\/assets.easyweddings.com\/files\/2021\/10\/30110515\/canapes-and-cocktails-at-reception.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\nAvoid messy foods<\/h2>\n
\n[ew-supplier-carousel]<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nComplement your drinks<\/h2>\n
Mix hot and cold<\/h2>\n
Serve the right amount<\/h2>\n
Cater for all tastes<\/h2>\n
Consider your presentation<\/h2>\n