Everyone knows that delicious food is a must for any type of gathering, and corporate events are no exception. Whether it’s a team-building activity, conference or business lunch, the right menu can help lay the groundwork for a successful event.

If you’ve been tasked with planning food for an approaching corporate lunch, we’ve got you covered. We cooked up this guide to help you choose healthy, scrumptious menu items that’ll have everyone raving about the food well after the event.

The Benefits of Nutritious Meals for Corporate Events

There are a few reasons to choose healthy, nourishing menu items for your business lunch catering:

• Enhanced focus and productivity: Foods that are rich in iron and B vitamins — such as whole grains and leafy greens — are known to increase cognitive health and brain function. With that in mind, you might consider serving meals and snacks that are packed with vitamins and minerals. They can give attendees that much-needed boost of energy so they can concentrate, absorb information and participate more effectively.
• Positive image: By serving nutritious meals, you showcase your company’s commitment to health and well-being, which reflects positively on your brand image and appeals to health-conscious individuals.
• Dietary inclusion: You can easily tailor healthy meals to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as offering vegan and vegetarian options. That way, there’s something for all guests to enjoy.
• Customization opportunities: Healthy food options, such as salads and wraps, are easy to customize based on dietary and personal preferences. Attendees can pick and choose their favorite dressings, toppings and other ingredients to create a unique dish that delights their taste buds.

Corporate Lunch Catering Ideas

Wondering what to serve at your upcoming business lunch or conference? Consider these healthy and delicious options for your next corporate event.

Entrees

If you’re seeking nutritious entrees for your catered corporate event, you can’t go wrong with these options:

• Salad: A light, crisp and refreshing choice, salads are a fantastic addition to your menu. Between fiber-filled veggies and protein from lean meats, they’re undoubtedly one of the most satiating entrees you can offer. They’re easy to customize to various dietary needs and preferences. Plus, their vibrant colors and appearance make them a visually appealing option for guests. Whether you add grilled chicken, fresh tomato or a zesty Italian dressing, salads are endlessly flavorful.
• Wraps: Combine fiber-rich tortillas with an assortment of meats and veggies, and you’ve got an ultra-satisfying crowd-pleaser! Wraps are simple to prepare, transport and eat, making them a go-to entree. They’re also ideal finger foods for a casual corporate event, allowing guests to mingle while they nibble.

Sides

Consider these staple sides for your corporate event:

• Rolls: Bread or rolls, such as multigrain croissants, are a great source of fiber and vitamins. They pair effortlessly with a variety of entrees, making them a versatile choice. You can even cut the croissants open and fill them with chicken or ham salad to make mini sandwiches. Chances are, guests will be grabbing them left and right!
• Soup: Soup is the quintessential comfort food and a delicious complement to many meals. Blending ingredients like chicken, beef and vegetables, it’s a nutritious option for your menu.
• Salad: Salad doesn’t have to be your entree — you can also make it your side dish. Whether you choose a traditional garden salad or a protein-packed pasta salad, this classic side dish won’t disappoint.

Beverages

Don’t forget about drinks! If you need a refreshing beverage to serve to your guests, grab one or multiple gallons of lemonade and iced tea, depending on how many people you’re anticipating. Additionally, provide chilled bottles of water so attendees can stay hydrated throughout the event.

Desserts

No meal is complete without a sweet treat to round it out! Here are some suggestions:

• Fruit: Whether individual fruit cups or a large bowl of fruit salad, this is a tasty and sweet dessert option for your menu.
• Cookies: An assorted cookie tray with chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin and white chocolate macadamia nut cookies probably won’t make it through the entire event — a clear indicator of a good dessert!

Corporate Lunch Catering Setup Ideas

In addition to selecting the right foods and beverages for your event, it’s equally important to consider how you serve them. Here are some examples:

• Boxed lunches: Boxed lunches are incredibly easy to distribute to attendees. Guests can grab them and go without waiting in long lines or taking extra time to scoop food onto their plates. Boxed lunches are also highly customizable — for instance, you might fill each one with a salad or wrap, a croissant and a chocolate chip cookie.
• Salad station: Go buffet-style with a salad station! Include plenty of toppings and fixings, such as veggies, fruits, meats, shredded cheese, croutons, nuts, eggs and dressings.

Tips for a Successful Catered Business Lunch

From crafting the perfect menu to ensuring smooth delivery logistics, there are multiple things to consider when planning a catered corporate event. Here are some tips to help make your business lunch a hit:

• Consider dietary preferences: When planning your menu, you’ll want to accommodate various dietary needs. Before the event, consider sending out a survey for attendees to list their allergies or other preferences. That way, you can build an inclusive menu that accounts for all guests.
• Ensure timely and efficient delivery: Leading up to the event, consistent communication with your caterer is essential. Coordinate with them about logistics, such as transportation and delivery times, to make sure you’re on the same page. Confirm that they can accommodate the expected number of guests at the corporate lunch, and discuss when and where the food will need to be delivered. Clarifying these details as soon as possible will help facilitate a smooth event.
• Choose a reputable caterer: Finally, choose a quality, experienced catering service that can bring your menu and vision to life. Ideally, your caterer should offer a wide range of nutritious and customizable menu items, including salads, wraps, fruit and more. 

Start Your Group Lunch Order From Salata Salad Kitchen

With Salata, you can create a corporate menu that’s both tasty and nutritious. Our Salata Bar brings the custom salad experience to your workplace, and we provide additional items like wraps, soups, desserts, non-GMO fruits and veggies, and organic teas and lemonades.

You can also let your guests choose their own meal with our box lunches or individual salad bowls. Whatever you pick, our group lunch ordering options can ensure plenty of food for your business event.

We invite you to explore innovative catering solutions from Salata. Browse our menu and begin your order today!