Where did the time go? Just yesterday you were sitting on the patio sipping a mojito and now you’re already daydreaming about your favorite fall foods like pumpkin pie and preparing to pull out all of your sweaters.
Even though it’s still August, we all know fall is right around the corner. Luckily, there’s still plenty of time for a barbecue or cocktail party. Serve the following foods to ensure a proper transition from summer to fall and keep your guests happy, not hangry!
1. Zucchini Boats
If your garden is overflowing with zucchini, turning them into tasty veggie boats is a brilliant way to use them up. Halve each one, scoop out the seeds and stuff them with everything from meatballs to cheesy bean burrito filling. You can even use pizza sauce and your favorite toppings to make the ultimate low-carb finger food.
2. Gumbo
In Louisiana, gumbo is as much a cultural symbol as Mardi Gras. It is a source of culinary pride. To you, it’s the perfect summer-to-fall party food.
Use seafood, chicken, or sausage for a more traditional flavor or throw in turkey and duck if you’re feeling adventurous. The dish also includes okra and other in-season vegetables like peppers, onions, parsley, and celery.
3. Chili
Looking for the ultimate comfort food to welcome in fall? Whip up a big pot of steaming chili. Recipes vary but can often include ingredients like red kidney beans, tomato sauce, broth, and lean ground beef.
You might also add fresh avocado or green onions to make the meal look a bit more fit for summer. Serve on top of chips, a classic bun or meat and vegan hot dogs if you happen to be hosting a barbecue.
4. Peach Cobbler
Ready for dessert? Peach cobbler is your summer-to fall-solution. This fruity, crumbly pie is sweet, syrupy, and just what you and your friends have been craving. Pair with Trader Joe’s southern peach crisp ice cream for an extra creamy treat.
As long as you enjoy it in moderation, this can be a fairly healthy dessert. Peaches contain a moderate amount of antioxidants that neutralize free radicals so you stay healthy well into the winter.
5. Ratatouille
Your kitchen is packed with produce. Why not put it to good use by making ratatouille? This thick, silky French stew of eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes will wow your friends and warm them up on cool summer evenings.
Add sausage or pepperoni for a meatier, more filling version of this classic dish. Just remember to set aside a few hours to let everything simmer. Otherwise, your final product might come out a bit chunky.
Finish It All Off with Sides
Sure, you can serve gumbo or ratatouille as a main course and peach cobbler for dessert, but what should you dish up on the side?
Ultimately, the choice is yours. But it’s wise to keep things light and refreshing in the heat of the day and opt for heavier sides in the evening when the temperatures drop.
This simple trick will keep everyone comfortably full, which is key to hosting a great party!
Which foods will you be trying out this month?
Feature Image by AR on Unsplash
