The mornings are getting a bit darker, and the air is a little colder as we quickly fall into fall. Autumn is such an amazing month to enjoy the weather outdoors. Gone is the extreme heat that drove us indoors, and like a breath of fresh air, going outside has become enjoyable again. Instead of waiting for the holidays to be in full swing, why not organize your pre-holiday gathering now and reconnect with family and friends during these next weeks of sweater weather? These are great autumn catering ideas to make the most of the season and seasonal flavors!
An Abundance of Tastes
Although we typically think of spring and summer as having amazing seasonal produce, autumn has some of nature’s best tastes to feast on. Some of our most inspired flavors come from the fall like apple, pumpkin, cranberry, pear, and squash. They all have a very unique and bold distinction that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether it is soups that warm the soul, entrees with a bit of spice, or desserts to end a perfect meal, using the best local produce in the Aiken area, is the best way to spice up your catered party.
Seasonal Cocktails
What can make people feel more spirited than spirits? At the focal point of your soiree, should be a signature cocktail showcasing the fall flavors. Hold a brunch with apple cider mimosas, make the most of the chill in the late evening by serving hot toddies with cinnamon whiskey, or make pumpkin spice martinis at any time of day. When you design a cocktail as the focal point of your festivities, everything else “falls” into place.
Comforting Comfort Food
During the summer and heat, comfort food just isn’t as comforting! With the colder weather comes the desire to heat things. Fall is when people return to the comfort of foods that warm the heart and the belly. Consider serving traditional favorites at your catered affair such as beef stew, mac and cheese, or roasted vegetable lasagna. Not only are they crowd favorites; they tend to make people feel right at home.
Seasonal Spices are at the Heart of Fall
One of the best parts about the fall is the spices that remind us of it. Cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg are all amazing tastes that can inspire your menu. Once you choose what flavor palette you want to go with via your signature cocktail, carry that spice to the rest of what you serve.
Desserts are a Must
One of the other things we love about fall is that after a long, hot summer where the last thing we want to do is top off a heavy meal is dessert, fall makes it okay again! The desserts of fall like apple or pumpkin pie, pumpkin spice cupcakes, or cinnamon doughnuts are those things that make our bellies happy and remind us that the holiday season is just about to break. No catered holiday affair is complete without your guests leaving on a sweet note!
Working With a Special Events Caterer
Whether you have a fall get-together for employees, friends, or family, the key to it is going to be connecting, and perhaps reconnecting, with guests. Why spend the time you have preparing, cooking, and serving? Fall only comes once a year, so let us take care of feeding the masses so you can sit and enjoy some downtime. We know how to bring the best of autumn to your gathering, so you can just sit, relax, and enjoy.
After a long, hot summer, sweater weather and a reprieve from the heat is much welcomed. At Catering by the Deft Chef, we believe in bringing out the best of the fall through amazing autumn-inspired dishes. Our specialty is comfort food, so why not comfort your guests with some time with you, and let us take care of the rest? Contact us today and reserve the date for your next gathering.