September is here and with it comes a plethora of Farm to Fork events and celebrations in the Farm to Fork Capital of America.
In addition to being a perfect time to break out the grill one last time, it is also an optimal time to enjoy crisp and juicy California pears while they are still in peak season! To help you squeeze every last drop out of this great weather and throw a fun-filled end of summer outdoor gathering, we’ve put together a patio-entertaining guide which makes the most of the delicious California pear season!
Begin by setting the table with plates, utensils, and glasses, interspersed with candles, fresh-cut flowers, and California pears. Pears are exceptionally versatile and can be used as decor, place card holders, or as the little something for guests to take home at the end of the day.
When it comes to cocktails, creativity is always a crowd-pleaser. Try offering your guests a pear shrub that will surely impress, or if you’re short on time a more simple option is a refreshing pear mule.
As family and friends mingle, drinks in-hand, begin hand-passing appetizers such as pear bruschetta or pear endive bites. These satisfying, yet simple dishes will surely make everyone reach for seconds.
For dinner, offer a light dish such as a California pear salad or something more filling like Murino pizza with pears, gorgonzola dolce, and honey. Bellies full of scrumptious pears everyone will be smiling after enjoying these pear offerings.
As daylight dims and your guests continue catching up over good food, light your candles if you haven’t already, refresh those pear cocktails, and serve up dessert.
With pears already being a sweet treat on their own, dessert possibilities are endless. Cut some fresh California pears into slices and serve them as they are or transform the fruit into a ginger brown butter pear tart. Alternatively you can serve up rum poached pears topped with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce. Whichever you choose, pears are sure to satisfy!
photo: Magnolia Rouge
