This time of year often calls for parents to ‘bring a plate’ along to an event, whether it’s for school, childcare or sport. You don’t need to go to a lot of trouble or expense. Presenting the food in a fun and festive way can make it all that more appealing. Sometimes it gives children a chance to try new foods. Always offer water to drink.
Party food ideas
- A fruit plate - try sliced melon, berries and cherries.*
- Dip like hummus or salsa with vegetable sticks* or wholemeal crackers.
- Fruit or vegetable pikelets, scones or mini-muffins.
- Fruit bread cut into bite-sized fingers.
- Egg and vegetable slice cooked in cupcake cups or cut into small squares.
- Sandwiches with simple fillings like cheese, ham and salad, hummus and salad or vegemite.
- Mini vegetable frittatas.
- Nibble plate with a variety of foods like cheese cubes, fresh or dried fruit, boiled eggs, mini meatballs, wholegrain crackers and dip.
- Mini pizzas made with wholemeal English muffins topped with tomato paste, grated cheese and vegetables.
- Plain popcorn* – in small cups.
*These are high choking risk foods for children under 3 years. Always watch children while they are eating. Read more about making foods safe by grating, chopping, mashing or cooking until soft
Tip: forget cutlery, present the food in ways that makes it easy to eat.
Be food safe
- Wash fresh vegetables and fruits before using.
- Take care with foods like dips, chicken, meat and egg which can grow bad food bugs quickly.
- Chill food well before packing. Do not take food if it has just been cooked or is still warm.
- Use an ice brick and insulated cooler bag to take food in.
- Cover food or put in a sealed container.