Traditional Southern food—biscuits, chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits—has long been revered as many people’s ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re wanting to incorporate your own Southern heritage or simply give your guests a little taste of home, you can’t go wrong with these classic appetizers from local caterers. Five catering pros take a modern and delicious spin on Southern fare, crafting high-quality bites perfect for your grand affair.
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1.Tomato and Pimento-Cheese Tartlets
“Serving unique and delicious food at a wedding is often a way for a couple to add their personal touch and create a memorable experience for themselves and their guests. The tomato and pimento cheese tart combines ripe, flavorful tomatoes with the classic Southern spread of pimento cheese. It highlights regional flavors and ingredients commonly found and loved in the South.”
2. Chicken and Waffle Bites with Maple Glaze
“Chicken and waffle bites are one of our best-selling appetizers. Guests enjoy this elevated take on a comfort food classic. Texas is a very diverse place, and we enjoy showcasing Southern favorites while pairing them with cuisines from around the world.”
Ferah Catering & Events | ferahcatering.com
3. Mini Shrimp and Grit Cakes with Roasted Poblano Peppers
“Couples love including this appetizer because it reflects a little taste of their roots and/or location of their event. Southern themed hors d’ oeuvres are always a hit, as they offer an elevated version of some of our favorite comfort foods.”
Culinary Art Catering | culinaryartcatering.com
4. Bustamante Punch
“This cocktail’s beauty and ability to stand out in a crowd makes it a huge hit on any Southern wedding menu. I grew up in the South, and this cocktail has the vintage quality I expect with a Southern wedding. Blood orange is a surprising fruit; its notes of raspberry and sweet citrus pair beautifully with ginger and the richness of the agave.”
5. Fried Green Tomatoes with Jalapeño-Pecan Jam
“Fried green tomatoes have been a Southern food icon since the early ’90s. They are the perfect comfort food for a Southern wedding. We elevated our fried green tomatoes by topping them with smoked honey mustard, jalapeño pecan jam, and Texas quail confit.”
Blue Fire Catering | bluefirecatering.com
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