This salad buffet is a great choice for spring entertaining. These salad recipes taste wonderful, are better if made ahead, and last for several days.
Keep in mind that the following recipes are totally versatile. Add or subtract meats, fruits or veggies to your taste, change the dressing or seasoning, add or subtract cheeses and herbs. Substitute shrimp, use pork instead of chicken, use different types of pasta, or add asparagus or peppers. You can also leave the meat out entirely for vegetarian versions. The salads are so flavorful I promise you no one will miss the meat!
One trick for cooking pasta is to salt the water well. It makes a huge difference in the pasta flavor, and doesn't really increase the sodium content of the finished dish. I rinse the cooked pasta very briefly, for only a few seconds, then add the dressing. The warm pasta absorbs the dressing this way and the finished result is much more flavorful. Stir the salad after about 30 minutes in the refrigerator so it stays creamy.
I also always thin mayonnaise with milk for the dressing recipes. It blends much more smoothly with the pasta or potatoes and the end result is creamy and silky. And with everyone watching fat grams, try blending low fat mayo, plain yogurt, or no fat mayo with the real thing. No one will be able to taste the difference.
Salads are also great for a buffet because they usually improve in taste and texture if refrigerated for a day or two.
Finally, remember to be creative and enjoy yourself! All you need to add to this buffet is some wonderful chewy bakery bread, or make your own focaccia or other quick breads, and offer some brownies and cookies as dessert. Mix and match the following recipes and you're well on your way to an easy buffet party!
Salad Buffet Menu
Salad Recipes
Bread Recipes
Cookie Recipes
- Best Brownies
I love this recipe for tender, creamy, and chewy brownies.
- Macadamia Cookies
You could use chopped cashews or pecans instead of macadamia nuts if you'd like. This super simple cookie recipe is great for a baker's first foray into the kitchen.
- White Chocolate Wedges
This incredible brownie recipe has a wonderful flavor combination of very sweet and creamy white chocolate with deeper chocolate drizzled on top.
- The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
Because they bake at a lower temperature than ordinary chocolate chip cookies, these cookies have a very even texture and crispness. If you eat them right away, they are crisp and chewy. If you store them in an airtight container, they become tender and chewy.
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