As summer fades into autumn, the timing is perfect for a harvest party. Food for a harvest party should reflect the season and local crops. Comfort foods, late vegetables and fruits all make perfect foods for a harvest party.
Instructions
Create a Harvest-Themed Menu
1. Base all menu on a harvest theme. Think apples, pears, pumpkins, hearty stews and mulled ciders.
2. Prepare food that is familiar to your guests. There are many ways to dress up traditional foods without making them too exotic for some guests. For example, wrap wedges of pears in smoky prosciutto for a unique but non-threatening appetizer.
3. Visit a local farmers market for fresh harvest vegetables, fruits and herbs.
Serve Appetizers and Finger Foods
4. Make all appetizers small to serve a large crowd.
5. Serve a balance of sweet appetizers and high calorie foods, such as cheese, with healthier choices, such as fresh crudite and hummus and fresh fruit with a yogurt dip.
6. Put out a large bowl of munchies to supplement appetizers and finger foods. Snacks such as tortilla chips, trail mix or party mix are good choices for a harvest party.
Serve an Assortment of Beverages
7. Purchase harvest-themed beers such as October ales or pumpkin ale.
8. Provide a selection of spiced ciders and hot cocoa for children (and adults not imbibing).
9. Mix a harvest punch, made from a mix of orange, pineapple and pear juice, which can be served plain or with alcohol.
Serve the Main Course
10. Make a potato bar by serving crispy potato boats alongside assorted toppings, such as sour cream, bacon, fresh chives and cheddar cheese.
11. Serve a hearty stew or chowder, like curried pumpkin stew or New England Clam Chowder.
12. Flavor the main dish with harvest spices such as sage, onion, and garlic. All meats should be accompanied by moist homemade stuffing.
Serve a Harvest-Themed Dessert
13. Serve a classic such as apple, pumpkin or mincemeat pie.
14. Dress up traditional pies with unusual ingredients, such as caramel-apple pie or cheddar-apple pie.
15. Serve baked fruits such as apples or pears, topped with homemade whipped cream.
Tags: harvest party, apples pears, vegetables fruits