Starters

• Large trays of fruits and vegetables cut into bite-size pieces are easy to prepare and refill. Simple dipping sauces are good accompaniments. Cold pasta salads, slaws and potato salads made without dairy products add diversity to the selection without risking spoilage. Tossed green or gelatin-based salads are appropriate if they can be frequently replenished by the host throughout the event.
  
  

Main Dishes

• Roasted and pre-sliced whole hams, turkey breasts or roast beef are usually well received and can be eaten alone or used to make sandwiches on hamburger or sandwich rolls. Baked pasta casseroles like ziti or lasagna are easily portioned and appeal to a wide range of people. Creamy mixtures of rice, vegetables and poultry are filling and comforting. Pizza with a variety of toppings from a local restaurant is generally well-received. Six-foot-long subs pre-cut into serving sizes are good for casual post-funeral gatherings.
  
  

Side Dishes

• Although potato and pasta side dishes are classic side dishes, mix in a few green and orange vegetables for color, flavor and nutrition. Steamed or roasted green beans, carrots, broccoli and squash complement most main dishes. Offer a wide selection of breads and rolls with butter and a variety of jams and jellies. Bowls of chips, nuts and other salty snacks are welcome sides.
  
  

Desserts and Sweets

• Since grieving people often find their appetites diminished and find comfort in sweets, provide a wide assortment of cookies, candies, pies and cakes. Cut the latter two sweets into serving pieces and place them on plates for easy access. Keep the offerings simple and stable to avoid spills and accidents. A mixture of homemade and store-bought sweets is acceptable.
  
  

Beverages

• Keep a fresh pot or urn of coffee on hand, along with hot water to make tea and instant hot chocolate. Juices and soft drinks appeal to a wide range of tastes. A large punch bowl of a fruit-based beverage efficiently and economically serves large groups of various ages. If serving alcohol, appoint a person to control its flow and make sure only adults consume it.