Need Ideas for a Ministry Team Soup Dinner? Here's What to Bring | RSVP Now!"

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers around participants sharing ideas for dishes to bring to a ministry team soup dinner. The original poster seeks suggestions for complementary items to accompany the soups, leading to a variety of contributions from other users.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions they are not a big soup person and is looking for ideas to complement the soups.
  • Another participant suggests bringing oyster snack crackers, providing a recipe for preparation.
  • Several users express enthusiasm for the oyster snack crackers and suggest other options like a braid of bread and beer bread.
  • One participant shares their experience of making beer bread with a salsa and cheese variation, noting it is savory and alcohol-free.
  • Another participant discusses the appeal of a three-cheese walnut spread, suggesting it could be served with crackers or toasted bread.
  • One participant expresses concern about using beer in recipes due to the preferences of some attendees, while another mentions using sparkling water as an alternative.
  • Several participants share their experiences with cooking and the use of alcohol in recipes, noting its impact on flavor.
  • One participant shares that they decided to make pull-apart garlic bread after considering the suggestions, indicating it was well-received at the meeting.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the appeal of various bread options as complements to soup, but there are differing views on the use of alcohol in cooking, particularly regarding the preferences of attendees at the dinner.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and preferences regarding food preparation for a community event, highlighting the importance of considering dietary restrictions and preferences of attendees.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants and community members looking for ideas on side dishes for gatherings, particularly those involving soups, may find the shared experiences and suggestions helpful.

raebates
raebates
Staff member
Messages
18,217
I'm going to a ministry team meeting this week. They're doing a soup dinner. I'm not a big soup person, so I'm trying to figure out what I can take to compliment the soups. I need to call and RSVP soon with the info.

Any suggestions?

TIA!
 
Oyster Snack Crackers - let me find the recipe - quick and easy!
 
Oyster Snack Crackers2 pkg. Oyster crackers
1 cup vegetable oil
1 pkg. Hidden Valley Ranch Salad Dressing Mix
1 tsp. dill weed
1 tsp. onion powder or salt OR ½ tsp. garlic powder or saltMix last four ingredients and pour on crackers – shake or stir once every 15 minutes for about an hour then serve.
 
I would take a braid of some sort.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
The snack crackers are a great idea. The braid is also a good idea, but I'm closing two shows that day, so I won't be able to make anything right before I go.Keep the ideas coming!
 
Do the beer bread! Yum!
 
What about that 3 cheese walnut spread that has been showing up on here lately. Bring some crackers or toast up some french bread. The bread wouldn't have to be warm, just crunchy.
 
Mmm that walnut spread does look good! All this bread talk is making me hungry for lots of carbs!!!!!!!!! :op
 
Last edited:
  • Thread starter
  • #9
The Three-Cheese Walnut Spread would be a wonderful idea, if The Furry Guy wouldn't veto it immediately because of the blue cheese.Beer bread is also a great idea, but I know a few of the people at the meeting would balk at the beer. I usually make it with sparkling white grape or apple juice, but I think something savory would go better than something sweet.See my dilemma?
 
Rae,
How long of a travel time will you have?
 
Make Beer Bread with the salsa/cheese variation on the box (some salsa, some water, and shredded cheese). There's no alcohol in that, and it's definitely savory. And delicious!Otherwise, a basket of biscuits or rolls would be good.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
It's about 25 minutes from our house to theirs. Also, I can't count on there being an oven or microwave available.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
chefann said:
Make Beer Bread with the salsa/cheese variation on the box (some salsa, some water, and shredded cheese). There's no alcohol in that, and it's definitely savory. And delicious!

Otherwise, a basket of biscuits or rolls would be good.
Click to expand...


That sounds great! I'll have to check that out when I get home.
 
You could make pull apart bread in the fluted pan. I use 3 cans of inexpensive small biscuits, quarter them, melt 1 stick of butter, 2 cloves pressed garlic, Italian seasoning and fresh parm cheese. Pour over the biscuits in the stone and bake at 350 for 20-22 mins. You could put foil over this and if you have the stoneware insulated carrier, put the whole thing in there and it will be hot when you get there. Flip it out on your platter and tada, impressive pull apart bread to compliment the soup. :thumbup:
 
  • Thread starter
  • #15
Another good idea. I may do that if I don't have any beer bread mix at home.
 
raebates said:
Beer bread is also a great idea, but I know a few of the people at the meeting would balk at the beer. I usually make it with sparkling white grape or apple juice, but I think something savory would go better than something sweet.

See my dilemma?
Click to expand...

Don't tell them its made with beer! They won't even be able to tell!

You can also use sparkling water and it works and tastes just as good!

Mmmmm!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #17
Since it's a personal choice for several of them not to consume alcohol (even the small amount that's left after cooking), I wouldn't feel right not telling them. I've never tried it with sparkling water, though. I'll have to do that soon.
 
Ooooo....I'm getting hungry just reading this thread and I just ate lunch!

I've had the oyster crackers....VERY good. So I'd vote for those or the pull apart bread in the fluted stone. Always good "sides" for soup :)
 
Yeah!!! That's true. Wouldn't be nice to trick people into eating beer I guess!

I definately could imagine giving up alcohol in a drinking sense, but a good wine in a sauce and throwing a beer into a pot of chili really makes the biggest difference in taste! I dont know if I could ever give up cooking with alcohol, it really does enhance the dish. We cook with beer ALL OF THE TIME and love it! My husband's favorite thing to cook is chili, and he throws a dark beer in every time and I'm telling you... its the best I've ever had! Yumm!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #20
Thanks for all your ideas. The Furry Guy decided that the pull-apart garlic bread sounded best. I called to RSVP for the meeting, and they didn't have anyone else bringing bread. Decision made.See? That's what I love about this site. I had to do a lot less thinking. :)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #21
bsaxman said:
Yeah!!! That's true. Wouldn't be nice to trick people into eating beer I guess!

I definately could imagine giving up alcohol in a drinking sense, but a good wine in a sauce and throwing a beer into a pot of chili really makes the biggest difference in taste! I dont know if I could ever give up cooking with alcohol, it really does enhance the dish. We cook with beer ALL OF THE TIME and love it! My husband's favorite thing to cook is chili, and he throws a dark beer in every time and I'm telling you... its the best I've ever had! Yumm!
Click to expand...



I'm with you. However, we have a large number of people from our church who have dealt with various addictions, including alcohol. We also have a few who are undergoing chemotherapy. For both of those groups, even the slightest hint of alcohol can be a problem. A teaspoon of vanilla isn't enough to cause a problem. The amount in a wine sauce, drunken chili (one of the versions we've used in the past), or beer bread, however, might be.
 
raebates said:
Thanks for all your ideas. The Furry Guy decided that the pull-apart garlic bread sounded best. I called to RSVP for the meeting, and they didn't have anyone else bringing bread. Decision made.

See? That's what I love about this site. I had to do a lot less thinking. :)
Click to expand...
So how did the pull apart bread do? Did you do this in the fluted pan?
That's wwhy I love this site too! Sometimes I have zero brain cells left to think for myself :) .
 
  • Thread starter
  • #23
I'll let you know after Saturday night. That's when the meeting will take place.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #24
Thanks so much, Ruthie. The Italian Pull-Apart Bread was a huge hit! I'm taking several copies of the recipe with me to church this morning.

Thanks to everyone for your ideas. I appreciate your help.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of soups are best for a ministry team soup dinner?

Consider bringing a variety of soups to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Popular options include classic chicken noodle, hearty vegetable, creamy tomato, and chili. You can also include a vegetarian or vegan option to ensure everyone has something to enjoy.

How can I keep my soup warm during the dinner?

To keep your soup warm, consider using a slow cooker or a thermal soup container. If you don't have these, you can also use a large insulated food carrier. Just make sure to preheat the container with hot water before adding your soup to maintain its temperature longer.

Should I bring any accompaniments to go with the soup?

Yes, accompaniments can enhance the meal experience. Consider bringing crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad. You might also want to include toppings like shredded cheese, croutons, or fresh herbs to allow guests to customize their soup.

How do I RSVP for the soup dinner?

Typically, RSVP details will be provided in the invitation or announcement for the event. You may need to respond via email, a phone call, or a designated online platform. Make sure to confirm your attendance and mention what dish you plan to bring.

What should I do if I have dietary restrictions?

If you have dietary restrictions, it's a good idea to communicate this when you RSVP. You can also bring a soup that aligns with your dietary needs, such as gluten-free or dairy-free options, ensuring that you can enjoy the meal alongside others.

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