One of the most difficult aspects of planning a wedding is planning the menu. It’s important for the menu to feature foods that your guests will love, but also those that fit the theme of your wedding and reception. This is especially difficult if you’re planning to handle this part of your wedding on your own or with the help of friends and family. The following beach wedding recipes will give you some excellent inspiration, and you may just find a few new favorites to add to your menu!
1. Pecan-Coconut Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
This is an absolutely delicious dish that works very well as an appetizer or as part of the main course. It’s also super easy to make and can be made ahead of time and frozen for the reception. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 1 Cup Shredded Coconut Flakes
- 1/2 Cup Coarsely Chopped Pecans
- 1 Cup All Purpose Flour
- 1 Egg
- 1 Cup Vegetable or Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper
- 1 Cup Milk or Cream
Start by trimming the fat from the chicken and cutting each breast into 4-5 long strips. In a large bowl, mix the egg with the cup of milk or cream and beat with a wire whisk until well-blended. Place the chicken into the egg mixture and set aside. Next, in another large bowl, combine the coconut flakes, flour, pecans, and a teaspoon of salt and pepper. Use a fork to blend well. Place a large frying pan on the stovetop, and place the heat on medium-high. When wisps of smoke begin coming from the pan, place the oil in the pan.
As the oil heats, take each piece of chicken from the egg mixture and dip it into the dry mixture, rolling it around so that each piece is covered. When the oil is hot, place the chicken into the pan. Depending upon how large your pan is, you may be able to cook more or less with each batch. It is important to leave plenty of space between the strips of chicken, so that cooking happens evenly. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, allowing the breading to become browned and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to tell whether or not the chicken is finished cooking. Place each piece on paper towels to allow the extra oil to be absorbed away from the meat. Allow these to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. This recipe creates 5 servings, so it will need to be adjusted for your guest list size.
2. Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
This is the perfect accompaniment to the chicken above, but it also goes well with a variety of other meats. Plus, it’s super easy to create. Simply mix equal parts of dijon mustard and honey, and let the mixture set for at least an hour to allow the flavors to merge very well before serving.
3. Oyster and Pearl Cookies
This is such a beautiful addition to any wedding, and can be made very easily and affordably. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large Box of Vanilla Wafers
- Your Favorite Frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- Edible Pearl
Start by flipping one of the cookies over with the top-side down. Using a piping bag and a star tip, add about a tablespoon of frosting to the cookie using a circular motion; start in the center and frost in a ring moving around and outward. Don’t worry – it doesn’t have to be perfect at all. Place your edible pearl on top of the icing, about 1/2 an inch from the edge of the cookie. Then, place the other cookie on top (with the inside part facing down), and at an angle, with the part of the cookie facing the pearl pointing further up than the other side. That’s all there is to it! These gorgeous cookies are the perfect addition to your dessert bar or plates.
There you have it – 3 delicious and gorgeous additions to your beach wedding menu. What’s your favorite tropical/beach-y food? Let us know in the comments below!