A meal thats key ingredients come straight off the farm you’ll be dining at–well you know it’s going to be the epitome of fresh. My ideal fall meal includes pasta (always a must) and good friends in an al fresco setting. (Do you like how I listed pasta before friends? This girl’s got her carb priorities). And what better way to celebrate the official start of fall than cooking a simple yet flavorful farm-to-fork meal on a dreamy, rustic ranch just outside of Napa. Cooking in the kitchen of this charming farm house made me yearn for country life–something my guy has tried to talk me into for years–and now (albeit far down the road) I’ve realized how appealing that lifestyle sounds. So, yes, I’m on board T!
My favorite type of shoot to work on these days has definitely revolved around entertaining, and when I brought the idea to HP to create my ultimate fall feast they let me run with it. I worked on this concept for weeks prior and had so much fun finally executing it! My girlfriends and I caravanned through Napa’s vineyards into Sebastapol and spent the afternoon picking pears, chopping to-die for tomatoes that we drizzled with olive oil, and cooking up a mean mushroom pasta. Our simple meal included very little ingredients and yet the flavors were incredibly satisfying. Ah, the taste of fall. California you spoil us.
When tomatoes are in season my go-to easy appetizer is always bruschetta. It’s something my Italian family has made for years and my little sister has perfected. Lightly toasting the bread, really good olive oil, and fresh basil are all key to highlighting the flavor of the tomatoes. And don’t even think about trying to make it if tomatoes aren’t in season.
Another easy fall crowd pleaser? Mushroom pasta (although make sure your crowd is into mushrooms). Just add: a healthy dose of olive oil, salt and parmesan cheese.
The table was set with a mix of Health Ceramic plates and bowls as well as a mix of vintage finds to create an effortless and inviting setting. And pears picked just minutes before were used as part of the table decor.
Styling + Concept | Alicia Lund
Furniture | Kristine Renee + Design Alchemy
Photography | Stephanie Russo