How Much Salad for 12 People?

Plan about 2.5 oz of greens per person for a side salad — a 5 oz clamshell serves two. Dress at the last minute or serve dressing on the side.

Heavier salads (pasta salad, potato salad) run about ½ cup per person; a gallon-size bowl serves ~25 as a side.

Adjusting for your crowd: kids eat about two-thirds of adult portions; knock 25% off any single item when several mains share the table; add 25% for teenagers and big appetites. When in doubt, round up on the cheap items (buns, chips, ice) and stay exact on the expensive ones.