Menu Ideas for a Summer Wedding

As the weather warms up, there is a lot to look forward to. If you are a summertime-bride-to-be there is even more reason to be excited! Not sure what culinary display you would like to go with? There are many great summer themes you can work into your reception, you just need to be a bit creative. The reception, along with the food, is one of the main focal points of a wedding. Luckily, for couples planning a summer wedding, the summer season come with all kinds of wonderful and delicious menu possibilities to choose from. Whether or not your wedding has a particular theme, atmosphere, will be indoors or outdoors, or you have a limited budget to work with, your menu can be one to remember.

The Barbecue
For summer weddings, if you are having your reception outdoors, the barbecue is a big favorite. If you choose to go with a barbecue reception, first decide on your main course items. These could include lighter fare dishes such as fish and chicken or a true Southern style BBQ with fried chicken and saucy ribs. If you have vegetarian guests attending, make sure to include a veggie friendly option as well, such as grilled stuffed Portobello mushrooms. Grilled corn on the cob is also another menu favorite.

To go with the main course, select a couple of “backyard barbecue” style side dishes. Pasta and potato salads and crudités all make lovely side choices.

The Picnic
This is a great option for a tighter budget. It is simple, light, low key and quaint. Offer up a variety of sandwiches for guests to choose from. Include a green salad with a basic vinaigrette dressing. Other side possibilities include coleslaw or chicken salad. Dessert choices could chocolate dipped strawberries, mini tartlets or even a fun option such as ice cream cones or a “make your own sundae” station.

Formal Sit Down
If you want to stick with a more traditional, sit down reception, fish is an excellent summer menu choice. From assorted sushi, to grilled sides of salmon fish is light, healthy and elegant. Looking for something a little different? Try grilled Ahi tuna, poached prawns, steamed mussels or freshly shucked oysters. Include a baby spinach salad tossed with feta cheese, red onions and a simple vinaigrette. Keep with the fish theme and offer shrimp cocktails or vodka capers during the pre-reception hour. Hors d’oeuvre options can include various topped crostinis as well as charcuterie with fine cheeses.

This is a guest post by Mark Lynch. Mark recommends finding more great information on culinary ideas, and recipes at Chefs.edu.