Expert: Kay Cole - 3/18/2010

Question
We are making food for a baby shower.  We plan to have egg, ham, tuna and chicken salad between two pieces of white bread and cut in fourths.  We are wondering how many sandwiches (before being cut) we can hope to get out of each pound of sandwich salad.

Answer
Hi ~ usually, I have to eyeball this sort of thing for finger sandwiches as it can vary on the number of ounces per sandwich depending on the consistency of the mixture. I would think, as a rule...1.5 - 2 oz. or a bit less per whole sandwich which will give you four finger or tea sandwiches. But again, this can vary greatly. The filling should be thin and go all the way to the edge....here is a web page that might have some other tips and ideas for you:  http://www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/plan/recep2.html

If your chicken salad is the chunky type..you might consider mini croissants instead of white bread.

You might also consider doing one side wheat and other white for a nice look on your buffet. Make sure that you buy the same brand of bread to get same size slices.

I think the web site referenced above has some great ideas and suggestions that you will find helpful.

Good luck with your shower!
Best,
K