Labor Day Party Menu 2018

You’ve done it all this summer. You’ve thrown the ultimate birthday bash, barbecues, pool parties, and more. Now, it’s time to to have the end-of-summer shin-dig. Yes, we are talking about Labor Day.

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At this point, I’m sure you’ve become expert on the ins and outs of throwing a get-together for your friends. You need the guest list, location, fun decorations, and reassurance that the weather is going to be in your favor. Who knows what Fall weather will bring!

Once that’s all squared away, it comes down to the most important part: the menu. The Rodeo Wagon is here to help! We’ve put together a delicious menu options for all your guests to enjoy. Goodbye Summer, Hello Yummy!

Quiche Cups

Appetizer: Loaded Quiche Cups

Baked deep dish pie crust, stuffed with a variety of healthy veggies, bacon, and melted premium cheeses. You can easily make this a vegetarian option by leaving out the meat and adding mushrooms instead.

Offering a salad bar is always a huge hit. Arrange the ingredients where it’s easy for guests to pile on toppings, just the way they like it, without holding up the line. Place dressings and seasonings at the end.

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Entree: Award Winning Sausage Pops

Cajun sausage pops, featuring a plum-orange-ginger sauce. This took 1st place award for Best Southwestern Food by Taste of Madison, 2018. Check out the rest of our awards here. Simply place a giant grilled sausage link on a stick, and drizzle it with your choice of special sauce. It’s easy to serve, and even easier to eat.

What’s more American than a cheeseburger? It’s time to take your basic burger to the next level. Add some nacho cheese, bacon, and some picked peppers and you’ve got everyone’s favorite meal.

Drinks: Fresh Lemonade

Nothing beats homemade lemonade, especially on a warm day. Guests of all ages can enjoy this beverage. Add some fresh fruit to it like blueberries or strawberries for an extra twist. You can make a special batch of Lemonade and Fruit, with a mix of tequila in the pitcher. 21+ guests will love the taste of this simple cocktail.

Don’t forget to have fun! Cheers!

Don’t feel like laboring on Labor Day?
Sit back, relax, and contact Rodeo Wagon here for our catering services.

Taco Bar: Fun and Easy Way to Serve a Crowd

With Fall approaching, I’m sure you’re planning your last get-together with your friends for the summer season. When having a large number of guests attending your party, you want to make serving food the easiest as possible, for everyone. That’s where the beauty of a taco bar comes in!

There are many types of food bars that you can indulge in, such as mashed potato bar, salad bar, fruit and veggie bar, but ultimately, taco bar trumps all. Taco bars are a crowd favorite, and allow all diverse pallets to enjoy the same meal in a variety of ways. Also, it gives you the opportunity to sit down and eat with your friends instead of plating food all night.

One of the best attributes of a taco bar is how easy it is! You just need some key ingredients such as:

Choice of Taco Meat (or meat substitution)
Beans
Mexican Rice
Hard and Soft Shell Tortillas
Toppings such as
– Diced White Onions
– Cilantro
– Diced Tomatoes
-Lettuce
– Guacamole
– Salsa
– EXTRA Cheese (you can never have too much)
– Jalapenos

You can keep the ingredients (that are best served hot) over food warmers, and wrap the tortillas in foil to ensure freshness.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Use common sense when laying out the food. We suggest the following;

Plate. napkins and silverware
Soft and hard shell tortillas
Varieties of meats
Beans and rice
Toppings (HINT: layout in order that you would apply onto tacos)
Cheese
Lettuce and tomatoes
Optional toppings such as onions, jalapenos and cilantro
Final toppings such as guac, sour cream and salsa

TIP: Offer tortilla chips as well just in case someone would prefer to make nachos instead of tacos.

Viola! You’re taco bar is all set up! Kids and adults will love the DIY Taco Buffet.

Enjoy!

Party Ideas for 4th of July Summer Bash

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4th of July is less than one week away, but you still have plenty of time to prepare for your patriotic party. BBQ’s and Pot Lucks are the easiest for everyone to participate in having holiday fun. Ask guests to bring side dishes and drinks, and remind them to wear Red, White and Blue for extra holiday fun! Don’t feel like cooking? Hire a caterer to assist with throwing a fun, stress-free summer party with delicious food for everyone.

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DIY decorations are the way to go when throwing party now-a-days. Stars, stripes, flags, and anything red, white and blue can be found at any dollar store. Just stock up on 4th of July products and get crafty! The options are endless; You can decorate mason jars with glitter, cut out stars from cardboard, tie RWB ribbon around chairs – don’t be shy to show your American pride!

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You can always stick with the traditional BBQ buffet of burgers, hot dogs, watermelon, potato salad and sweet teas. But why not add a little twist?

Caprese Kabobs are always a hit! Easy to make, enjoy and clean up. Who’s complaining?

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If you wanted to incorporate the 4th of July theme with your kabob, you can just cut your fruit or vegetables in star shapes!

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Holidays are the perfect excuse to be “extra” with your beverage presentation. Show your patriotic side by preparing easy 4th of July cocktails to your guests that are over 21, along with non-alcoholic drinks. Serving snow cones with cherry and berry flavors is an easy way to appease all age groups. This allows the kids to have fun making snow cones, and gives the option for adults to add alcohol to their snow cones. Everyone is happy! 🙂

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Grab all your friends and huddle around the fire pit, it’s time for strawberry smores! This puts a fun, healthy twist on traditional smores where guests of all ages can still participate. Just place the strawberry on the skewer, slightly melt the marshmellow, and fuse the two together. Hold both over the flame while rotating, and cook till toasted enough for your liking! You might never go back to eating regular smores again.

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Raise your flags high and have your party sparkle like a firework!
Do you have any 4th of July traditions? We’d love you to share!

BBQ Catering Trends in 2018

People are more in-tune than ever before with what food they are buying and eating among their diets. Food is now a form of entertainment. Ask yourself: how many cooking shows are on TV, nowadays? Most people are paying more attention to the kinds of food they are eating, the food companies that they are supporting, and how food is prepared. Rodeo Wagon is passionate about staying on top of food trends in order to stay in the ‘now’ of what people are interested in eating.

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Check out BBQ Food Catering Trends that are happening this year.

1. Global Fusion
One of the most important components of barbecuing is the way the meat is prepared. Barbecue techniques are changing – now, cooks are embracing all cultures from around the world and bringing it into the kitchen. Since people have more access to connect with people from all around the world, this inspires cooks to adventure with many diverse recipes that can influence the overall flavor of meals. Creating fusion inspired meals can add a special twist to any cookout event, and also allows you to cater to a wide set of pallets and dietary requirements.

2. Non-meat Eaters
Meat-free diners are becoming more common; It is important to offer meal options available for all dietary options. Having a surplus variety of vegetable options is recommended since individuals are becoming more serious about their health and environment. Don’t forget to add fusion flare to the vegetables, you’ll leave with a lot of impressed guests!

3. Local Craft Beer and Wine
People are passionate about supporting local brands, especially when it comes to food and beverages. Though beer and wine have been around for decades, their popularity with millennials is causing a shift in the market. Selling local beers and wines as a caterer is beneficial for everyone – considering caterers give off a “local” and friendly vibe. People are more likely to buy products that are made locally, so now is the time to support our neighbors!

4. Thinner Meats
It’s all about the flavor! When cooking thinner meats, you have the advantage of cooking quickly while still being able to hold onto all the delicious flavors and smokey spice. Thinner meats are more likely to be less fatty and easier to eat – perfect to serve when you have guests over for dinner and wine.

5. Forget the Buns!
After the huge health craze over the negative effects of gluten, many healthy eaters are ditching foods that have gluten in them, which includes bread. Use alternatives such as a lettuce wrap to reduce your calorie intake and enjoy a fresher, crisp meal. You can’t go wrong!

What are your BBQ recommendations? Rodeo Wagon would love to hear!

Reach out to Rodeo Wagon for your next catered event!

Menu Tips for the Ultimate Picnic Party

It’s picnic season! Picnics are perfect outdoor fun for companies, social groups and organizations. Planning a picnic can be just as fun as enjoying the outdoor event as well! Here are menu tips from the Rodeo Wagon.

Rodeo Wagon has just the right picnic menu ideas to make an extra special afternoon with friends and family. The best thing about picnics are the memories enjoyed outside of the house that are filled with light-hearted experiences and laughter.

Most people think “Picnic Party” is the only theme for your picnic event; but don’t be shy to add a special twist. Some fun ideas are Fiesta Picnic, Sports-Themed, Circus-Themed and plenty more options! What other themes sound fun to you?

To ensure your event is memorable, Rodeo Wagon ensures to provide excellent catering experience and exceptional service to bring your event to the next level. How do we do this? We do this by providing high-quality food that is fresh and tasty, with a special southern twist. We have a diverse menu that accommodates most dietary needs… no one will leave with an empty stomach! 🙂

Picnic Favorites!

Make sure to come hungry! Everyone loves to grub on Texas Bacon Burgers, Veggie Burgers or Wisconsin Brat Wurst.

All it takes to add the “wow’ factor is additional toppings such as caramelized onions, sauerkraut, and brown mustard.

Want a lighter lunch?

We suggest our special Southwest Garden Zesty Pasta that can be served with or without protein – in which provides food options for all attending guests. Pasta salad is served hot and packed with fresh veggies so it’s satisfying, but not too heavy.

(This photo demonstrates non-veggie option).

Now, let’s talk side dishes…

Rodeo Wagon’s Award Winning Triple Cheesy Mac N’ Cheese is a must have! Savor your taste buds with a blend of premium cheeses and pasta, topped with bread crumbs and VOM FASS Truffle Oil. What’s there not to love?

sample — Award winning Triple Cheesy Mac

Little tips that make a huge difference:

1. Ensure all foods are stored under tents protected from the sun to ensure freshness.
2. Check the temperature of the foods every 30 minutes.
3. Remove cooked food from the grill directly to guests plates.
4. When serving food, be sure to always wear gloves. We know we do!
5. Bring extra ice for cold beverages and cold condiments.

Reach out to Rodeo Wagon to help you cater your next picnic party or event!

Food Ideas for Summer Parties

Sunday, June 2 2019 from 6 to 8 in the evening.33 Tailwater St. Manitowoc, WI 54220

As we enter the summer months, it means pool parties, BBQs, beach adventures and warm nights fill up our calendars. We have compiled a list of food tips that can help when serving food at your next summer party.

Provide options for your guests. Consider providing vegetarian options in addition to your main course.

One of our favorites is Rodeo Wagon’s Smokey Summer Quinoa Salad. This features smoked paprika and citrus flavors. This is a great option for summer events when you aren’t sure how many diners are vegetarian since protein options can be served on the side.

Smokey Summer Quinoa Salad

We recommend having a self-serve style so guests can add their own toppings, condiments, ect. This principal also extends to beverages served. Include both alcohol, for your guests who are over 21, and non-alcoholic beverages so everyone has the option. And always be sure to have water! It’s easy to quickly become dehydrated during the summer time.

When feeding several people, you want to try and avoid spills and messes. Serving food that is easy to serve, eat and clean up after is ideal. That’s why we recommend serving kabobs. You can prepare a variety of kabobs, such as even fruit or veggie kabobs on a hot day!

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Interactive food stations are always fun! Set up a sundae station where guests can cool down by enjoying a personalized sundae. They can load up on sprinkles or have double cherries – the possibilities are endless! Interactive food stations aren’t just for dessert.

Here at Rodeo Wagon, we like to get creative. We offer a mashed potato sundae bar. Guests start with mashed potatoes in a sundae cup and have the choice of adding the following toppings: gravy, sausage, bacon, cheddar cheese, broccoli, sour cream, chives or roasted peppers. This puts a fun twist on your main course!

Keeping menu options flexible and fun is always the best route. Rodeo Wagon is here to help!

Most importantly, have fun! That’s what parties are for, right?

Guide to Healthy Cooking Hacks

Whether you are pursuing a healthier diet or simply missing an ingredient while in the middle of cooking, Rodeo Wagon has your back with cooking hacks! Check out our tips below.

Cooking Hacks

Planning a Wedding Reception Menu

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It’s wedding season, can you hear the bells ringing? We are here to give you the down-low on everything you need to know about planning a reception menu.

When you find a potential caterer, plan a tasting (and don’t forget to have fun with it!) Remember, food is not only a meal! Food plays a significant role in our daily lives, especially special events with all the special people in your life.

Requesting guests in advance to provide their dietary restrictions and food allergies in advance will help determine the menu. With a variety taste buds at the wedding, the menu needs to appeal to a wide range of people.

Here are things to keep in mind:

Consider…
– Allergies and dietary request, such shellfish, dairy and nuts
– Vegetarians – Make sure meals with no protein options are available
– Avoiding food that may be deemed as spicy
– The cleanliness factor: Is it easy to serve and eat? No one wants spaghetti sauce on their formal attire…
– Preservation of food – if you’re reception is outside, consider how to serve guests food without risk of spoiling it too quickly

Us at Rodeo Wagon are accustomed to building customized menus and understand the importance of creating a delicious meal that all guests can enjoy. This includes creating creative menus with staple items that are not difficult to serve, despite your dietary restrictions.

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Developing an open, communicative bond with your caterer can change your wedding day mood from fatigue to fabulous. There’s a million and one things going on, make sure you stay energized throughout the big day. Before your wedding day, chat with your caterer about the menu items you’re particularly excited to try, and see if he or she can set some aside for you on the big day. Your caterer can also make sure that your dinner isn’t swept away too quickly or prepare a plate for you from the buffet so that you have a little more time to eat. Trust me, we know it makes a difference!

We want your day to be special, so please let us know any comments or suggestions on how we can do that for you at your next event.

Ciao for now!

Graduation Party Food Ideas

♪ Schools out, for summer! ♪

Congrats to all the graduates out there; now, it’s time to celebrate your success! Graduation parties (or any party) can be a lot of work, and I’m sure you’ve ran through the mental checklist of everything you need at least a million times…
Date and time? Check ✔. Party location? Check ✔. Decorations? Check ✔. Sending invites to everyone you know? Check ✔. Now for the most important part — food. Your menu choice is a balancing act between budget and everyone’s food tastes, especially the graduates. Did someone say “BBQ”? The Rodeo Wagon knows all about that! As for the cherry on top, we keep it local with ingredients from local businesses.

You know what’s always a huge hit? “Build Your Own” food bars. This gives people the freedom to make their food exactly the way they enjoy! Keeping it western, a “Build Your Own Slider” bar is one way to make sure no one leaves with an empty stomach. We include all the works!

Guests top their 2 slider buns with chicken, pork or bison and dress them up with 4 toppings. Choose from sweet potatoes, blend of sliced cheeses, roasted peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, caramelized onions, sauteed mushrooms, coleslaw, beets or pickles. BBQ, chipotle mayo, VOM FASS oil and vinegar and ketchup are available for the final touch.

Oh yeah, don’t forget Rodeo Wagon’s Award Winning Triple Cheesy Mac n Cheese. Mmm.. Tasty.

Kenison wedding_mac2 — Rodeo Wagon’s Award Winning Triple Cheesy Mac n Cheese, Taste of Madison 2017

Not feeling BBQ? How about a more summer-themed dish? Our island pork is boasting with sweet, sour, and teriyaki flavors and garnished with pineapple.

Not every party is has a long invite list. If it’s a more intimate setting, how about seafood? Nothing better than Cajun infused Gumbo featuring Andouille, chicken, and vegetables, topped with a crawfish boil and served with corn on the cob.

Cajun-togo — Cajun gumbo, crawfish and corn on the cob

Are you hungry yet?

Rodeo Wagon is here for your catering needs and to help take off the stress of preparing food for your next big event. We have a staple menu of meals people enjoy, but we also create customized menus to ensure your party is just as delicious as it is delightful.

Stay tuned for more foodie talks!