Do you absolutely love hosting but dread the amount it costs to purchase food and drinks for your friends and family? Same here, being social is the easy part. The hard part is making sure everyone’s happy with the food and drink options, so how can we make sure of that? Try these easy and popular budget-friendly snacks the next time you host a BBQ!
Let’s Talk Quac
Ok, let’s be real. Everyone loves a classic guac and chip combo. Step it up by either buying your chips at a local Mexican Restaurant (They always have the best tortilla chips) or adding some homemade salsa on the side. This is a perfect party snack and it’s even easier on your wallet.
Sweet, Sweet Carbs
Pasta salad is a summertime favourite! It’s extremely cost effective, easy to put together and a hearty snack. It’s always good to have a carb heavy option, especially if your guests will be having a beverage or two. There are tons of recipes with easy ingredients so, find one that works with you and your budget. You can also make pasta salad the day before to save you some time while getting your other snacks ready the day of!
Fruit and Veggie Plates
Fruit and veggie plates are an easy option that everyone can enjoy. Try adding some greek yogurt dip for fruit or hummus for veggies, people are more likely to eat these if there’s dip, just from personal experience.
Nachos
Mmm, Nachos! Nachos are great for all types of guests and are incredibly easy to throw together in a time efficient manner. They can even be made vegetarian so that all of your guests can enjoy. They’re also a great snack to get people social and engaged since you need to eat with your hands and share. OH, and you can use some of those chips, guacamole and salsa you made for your nachos as well 😉 Talk about 2 in 1!
Shishkabobs
Sure, these snacks are great… But what if your guests aren’t full? That’s a party hosts worst nightmare! But behold, shishkabobs are so easy to make and perfect for the BBQ! Slice some veggies and chicken, steak or pork and slather some BBQ sauce on there. You could even get guests to put their own together to save you some time and give them something to do.
Need Help? Make it a Potluck!
If you need help planning, make it a potluck! Friends don’t mind bringing a dish each and it makes it easier on you, your budget and your dishes. Oh, and there’s always leftovers. 😉
Have any great budget tips for hosting? Share them with us in the comments!
