1. Mini Sandwich Sliders That Pack a Punch

Sandwiches are a classic, but when they’re mini, they’re also fun. Sliders are easy to hold, don’t require utensils, and can be stacked with all kinds of fillings that both grown-ups and picky eaters will like.

From fresh roasted turkey to egg salad or rare roast beef, you can create a bite-sized buffet that hits every craving. Pair them with fresh mini rolls or croissants, toss in some pickles and olives, and you’ve got a no-fuss setup that disappears fast.

Pro tip: Offer a mix of bread options sourdough, whole wheat, and rye so everyone finds something they like.

2. Skewer Platters: No Plates? No Problem.

Skewers are the ultimate poolside party food. They’re portable, mess-free, and easy to make fun for kids and flavorful for adults.

You can do fruit skewers (grapes, melon, pineapple), Caprese sticks (mozzarella, tomato, basil), or even meat and cheese combos. Want to kick it up for the grown-ups? Add marinated veggies, olives, or pepperoncini to the stick.

You don’t even need plates, just grab and go.

Also Read: How to Pair Beverages with Your Catered Menu

3. Taco and Hot Dog Bars: Build-Your-Own, Save the Drama

Nothing pleases a crowd like the freedom to build their own meal. That’s why taco and hot dog bars are perfect for outdoor events.

Taco Bar (Mexicatessen Style)

We offer soft tacos filled with grilled chicken breast, Angus ground beef, or carne asada, plus all the toppings: shredded lettuce, red cabbage, cheddar, onion, cilantro, and salsa.

Set it all up buffet-style with Spanish rice, refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo, and you’ve got something fun and filling that works for all ages.

Hot Dog Bar

Keep it simple with classic franks, or throw in some beefy sausages and turkey dogs. Add toppings like sauerkraut, diced onions, ketchup, mustard, and relish. Kids can stick with the basics, while adults dress theirs up with hot sauces and specialty mustards.

Also Read: How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Catered Event

4. Cold Pasta Salads That Chill All Day

Hot foods in the sun? Not ideal. Cold pasta salads are refreshing, filling, and easy to prep ahead of time.

We’ve got options like:

• Zesty Italian pasta salad
• Macaroni salad
• Classic potato salad
• Pasta salad with olives, tomatoes, and feta

Keep them chilled in containers and serve with small cups or bowls. These salads hold up well in the heat and still taste great after hours on the table.

5. Fruit Cups and Waffle Cone Delights

When the sun’s blazing and people are jumping in and out of the pool, a fresh fruit snack hits just right.

Try fruit cups or serve chopped fruit in waffle cones for a fun twist. They’re colorful, hydrating, and way more exciting than a fruit tray alone. You can even freeze grapes or add a dollop of whipped cream for a little flair.

And yes, we can include a fresh fruit platter in any spread.

6. Hydration Stations: Drinks That Aren’t Just Soda

Keep the crowd cool with more than just soda cans in a tub of ice.

Infused Water & Lemonade

Offer pitchers of water infused with mint, cucumber, or berries. Add a big batch of classic lemonade or strawberry lemonade, and you’ve got refreshing drinks that don’t rely on sugar overload.

Smoothies & Slushies

We love offering kid-friendly smoothies mango, strawberry, and banana. For adults, consider a mocktail slushie bar, and optionally set up a small side bar with mixers.

7. Frozen Treats and Baked Goods

Hot weather + sugar cravings = time for dessert. But not every dessert survives poolside heat.

Ice Cream Alternatives

Instead of ice cream, offer:

• Frozen yogurt pops
• Fruit sorbets
• Chilled pudding cups

Less melting means fewer sticky hands.

Baked Goodies

Cookies and cupcakes are a safe bet. Our Assorted Cookie Tray is a crowd favorite. We’re talking m+m cookies, Las Vegas cookies, rugelach, florentines, lace cookies, and more. Or go classic with eclairs and black and whites.

Wrap them individually or serve in a covered tray to keep things clean.

8. Allergy-Friendly Options

Pool parties usually mean lots of kids, which often means someone has a food allergy. Offering allergy-aware choices is a simple way to keep everyone happy.

Here’s what we suggest:

• Nut-free sandwiches and cookies
• Dairy-free fruit and hummus platters
• Gluten-free pasta salad or veggie trays

Let your guests know you’ve thought of them, it matters more than you think.

9. Buffet Setup Tips for Outdoor Parties

You’ve picked your food. Now comes the tricky part, serving it outside.

Buffet vs. Individual Portions

Individual packaging (like mini cups or bagged portions) helps avoid sharing germs and keeps kids from digging into everything. Buffets are better for adult crowds who know how to portion sensibly.

Keep It Cool

• Use ice trays and cold packs under serving dishes
• Keep covers on platters
• Use tents or umbrellas for shade

At Pickle’s Deli, we always pack and deliver our trays with outdoor-friendly packaging in mind.

10. Grown-Up Options That Still Feel Fun

Don’t leave the adults stuck with nuggets and cookies. Add a few extras that feel a little more elevated without going overboard.

Charcuterie Cups

Mini grazing cups with cheese cubes, deli meats, nuts, and fruit. Easy to eat, easy to clean up, and they look amazing.

Add-On Salads and Deli Picks

Offer tuna salad, fresh roasted turkey, or Romanian pastrami in wraps or as part of a cold cut buffet. Mix in a signature coleslaw, green salad, or pasta salad, and you’ve got something for everyone.

At-a-Glance Pool Party Catering Menu Ideas

Here’s a snapshot of pool-party-ready items from Pickle’s Deli:

Category	Kid-Friendly	Adult-Approved
Mini Sliders	Egg salad, turkey, roast beef	Pastrami, rare roast beef
Taco Bar	Ground beef, cheese, lettuce	Carne asada, fresh guac
Pasta Salad	Mac & cheese, potato salad	Italian, Greek-style pasta salad
Fruit & Desserts	M&M cookies, sorbets	Black & whites, lace cookies
Drink Station	Lemonade, smoothies	Cucumber water, mocktails
Extras	Hot dogs, bagels with cream cheese	Charcuterie cups, gourmet wraps