As the late-afternoon shadows become longer and the days get shorter, the romance of fall is upon us.
In Napa it’s time for the crush, in the Midwest it’s time for harvest, and all across America it’s time to celebrate the bounty of the fall season—this time with a thoroughly modern dinner party. Here, we share a fresh take on how you can turn your fall fête into a glamorous, modern affair.
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KEEP IT LIGHT AND BRIGHT
Fall is here, and with it the season for get-togethers and celebrations.
We’re of the mind that you don’t need a holiday to spoil family and friends with a decadent dinner. And although, traditionally, that means all the fall trimmings and colors, we’re craving something light, bright, golden, and modern this season.
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Prado Paella featuring lobster tail, shrimp, scallops, langoustine, and chorizo over forbidden black rice.
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RE-THINK THE MENU
While autumn may bring to mind pumpkin and squash everything, we challenge you to re-think the culinary offerings this season. We worked with Chef de Cusine Belal Rajab of Omni Montelucia Resort in Paradise Valley to put together our culinary experience.
“Serving up Tapas and Paella is a great way to craft a unique dining experience for your guests this season; they are both simple to craft and prepare yet elegant for display, not to mention full of flavor that’s sure to impress,” Rajab says.
Tapas is a great way to get the conversation going, and small plates are always easy on the eyes. They also double as decor; you can tray-pass them, serve them at a cocktail table for guests to graze on as they arrive, or take them to the dinner table.
Preparing tapas items on an open grill with white oak really play into fresh, new flavors.
“Most traditional fall feasts incorporate your typical pumpkin and spiced flavors, whereas the flavors brought about by preparing tapas items on an open grill with white oak really play into fresh, new flavors while still incorporating a warm holiday feeling,” Rajab says.
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Albondigas, Roasted Cauliflower and Lollipop Lamb Chop with Mint Pesto.
If you’re hosting a sit-down affair, consider something truly luxurious for dinner like a seafood paella. It’s warm, inviting, and has all the fall colors, even if it isn’t a traditional fall meal. “Paella is a dish that we feel can be served throughout the seasons, as its shareability brings about a communal spirit and really brings the table together over conversation and bold bites,” Rajab says.
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HEAD OUTDOORS
Weather permitting, consider hosting your get-together outside. A table strewn with candles sets the scene for a dreamy and intimate affair. Gather some lanterns and string lights for additional lighting. Once the sun sets, have some blankets available for guests to cozy up if needed.
A glass of Champagne as guests arrive sets the mood for the evening.
Long candlesticks set in glass bottles create a dreamy ambience and add lighting.
Placecards always show your guests they are important.
Tapas, Charcuterie Board, Paella, Wine Pairing, and Location courtesy of Omni Montelucia Resort & Spa. Table details on table by Peter Thomas Designs.
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