Summer is the perfect time for relatives from near and far to come together for a reunion picnic in the park. Such a grand gathering isn't complete without those treasured recipes that have been in the family for generations.
In addition, branch out and make some new memories with Grilled Picnic Chicken, Southwestern Pasta Salad, Summer Sub Sandwich, Brownies in a Cone, Root Beer Cookies and Marinated Vegetable Salad.
These recipes (and those shared below) are tried-and-true favorites of a family just like yours and are perfectly portioned for larger groups.
Need more large-quantity recipes? Try Olive Potato Salad, Apple Broccoli Salad, Tropical Fruit Salad, Family-Style Baked Beans, Cheddar Pan Rolls, Potluck Strawberry Trifle, Fiesta Chili Dogs, Crisp Onion Relish, Barbecued Pork Sandwiches, Smoky Barbecue Sauce or Mandarin Pasta Salad.
Food Quantities for a Crowd
When planning a buffet, use this guide to estimate how much you'll need per person.
Keep in mind, if you offer more than one item from each category, the less you'll need per serving.
Beverages
- 3/4 cup of coffee or tea
- 24 ounces of soft drinks, juices, lemonade or bottled water
- 1 cup of milk
Breads
- 1 to 2 slices of bread
- 1 biscuit, roll or muffin
Salads
- 1 cup of green salads
- 1/2 cup of fruit, potato or pasta salads
Condiments
- 3 to 4 pickle slices or 1 pickle spear
- 3 olives
- 1 ounce of ketchup, mustard and pickle relish
Dairy
- 1 teaspoon (1 pat) of butter or margarine for bread and rolls
- 1 ounce of sliced cheese for sandwiches
- 2 tablespoons of cream for coffee
Desserts
- 1/2 cup of ice cream or frozen yogurt
- 1 portion of cake or pie
Meats
- 4 to 6 ounces of meat, fish or poultry
- 2 hot dogs
- 1 to 2 ounces of sliced luncheon meat
Miscellaneous
- 1 ounce of potato or corn chips
- 3 to 4 ounces of ice for beverages