Help!!!!

[jessicacook]

My nephew is getting married next month. They are tight on cash so I have volunteered to do the rehearsal dinner. I have to make a spaghetti (that's what they wanted) dinner for 40 people! The menu includes spaghetti, a small side salad, garlic toast and tea. How much sauce do I need to make? How much pasta?

How can I keep the noodles warm and not stick together until it's time to eat? How can I keep the toast warm? I may have more questions later.

Thanks!

[beckrl]

I would look at the serving size on the package of pasta then apply that to the 40. The same would go for the sauce.

As far as the noodles sticking hot water works for un-sticking them.

[Susie Hamilton]

Put some olive oil in the noodles while boiling them. It keeps them from sticking together.

[free]

Why not contact a local catering service in your area and get their advice. I'm sure they'll be glad to give you that information.

[rjc]

Another way to keep the pasta from sticking is to put it in double boiler pan with only a small amount of water in the bottom pain on simmer and keep lid on until you are ready to serve.

After you have prepared the toast wrap that in aluminum foil and put in oven on warm, 200 mdegrees or lower. This way the bread stays warm but doesn't get hard.

Good luck, I know you will do a great job.

[Dr. Ron]

Well, Spaghetti is not a food...it's poison....it's a bane of society....

I had to eat that 9 times in 8 days....in one revival. I can no longer tolerate it in any form.....I can't even stand the smell. I won't kiss my wife after she eats it until she brushes her teeth.....

Having said that. go for it ....just get lot's of Rague and tomato paste.....

[Linda]

Have you thought about serving "baked spaghetti"? It's easy and also good, less messy for a bride too. It won't splatter on her dress.

[Ilovebigcats]

Have you thought about serving "baked spaghetti"? It's easy and also good, less messy for a bride too. It won't splatter on her dress.

That's what I would do!!
7 LARGE turkey pans of baked Spaghetti.. no worries about the noodles sticking. 2lbs of noodles and 3 jars or large cans of sauce per pan. That will serve around 8 people.

For the toast.. wrap the inside of a cooler in foil. Put the toast inside and place a CLEAN hand towel over them and close the lid. It will keep them warm and the towel will absorb the moisture so they don't get soggy.

Chop iceberg and romaine yourself! It is cheapest and still good!

[Poimen]

PORTION CONTROL!!!

Whatever you do, be sure you or helpers make the plates for the guests. Assign specific utensils and/or serving sizes. This allows you to control portions and ensure that the prepared food covers the intended number of persons.

Also, you should probably make more than enough, more than your final estimated amount -- just in case. Some may require larger helpings, or preferably seconds. Buy and make enough for say a minimum of 45 people when you only expect 40. It's not so much that unexpected guests will be arriving (especially in this context), but to ensure there is enough for everyone to eat and be satisfied.

[turbotim]

Have you thought about serving "baked spaghetti"? It's easy and also good, less messy for a bride too. It won't splatter on her dress.

It's just the rehearsal dinner so she won't be wearing a dress. He requested spaghetti...

[jessicacook]

PORTION CONTROL!!!

Whatever you do, be sure you or helpers make the plates for the guests. Assign specific utensils and/or serving sizes. This allows you to control portions and ensure that the prepared food covers the intended number of persons.

Also, you should probably make more than enough, more than your final estimated amount -- just in case. Some may require larger helpings, or preferably seconds. Buy and make enough for say a minimum of 45 people when you only expect 40. It's not so much that unexpected guests will be arriving (especially in this context), but to ensure there is enough for everyone to eat and be satisfied.

I said 40 because they expect about 30 to be there. It's all some great ideas!! I will look into the baked spaghetti!! Thanks you guys!! Any other advice you got, I will gladly take!

[Dr. Ron]

Yep, again, don't do spaghetti....

Actually enchiladas are easier, lasagna, those dishes that can be bought at Sam's and heated up.....cheaper and easier....

Think he would mind a little menu change? There are much easier ways to cook for that many.....but....

Anyway.....have a nice dinner....

[teach]

when are you doing this? Maybe I can come help.

Wendy k

[turbotim]

when are you doing this? Maybe I can come help.

Wendy k

The wedding is June 20 in Cleveland, MS at First Assembly. I will be officiating...

[teach]

ok, I won't be able to come then. I'm coming the week after that. boo


wendy k