But there are some things that are all the more precious because I allow myself to wait for them. Take for example Christmas music. God forbid anyone plays Christmas music within my hearing range before Thanksgiving. I'm serious. The absolutely only correct and decent time to play Christmas Music is between Thanksgiving Day (post-meal) and New Year's Eve. Get caught playing it beforehand and I will either demand you shut it off or I will remove myself from your presence.
I am beginning to learn that the same kind of thrill, of relishing something prodigal, can be gleaned from food. Strawberries really do taste better in June. Apples cannot be beat outside of a sunny, crisp fall day.
Lis and I were daydreaming one day about dinner parties we would throw if we had unlimited money and time. Before we knew it we had put together some brilliant feasts focusing on seasonality. I've included the first set below for your perusal and/or inspiration.
And just know that if you are one of those people who buys pumpkin beer or pumpkin spice lattes any time before September has truly set in, I am ashamed of you. (But only marginally, seeing as how I eat apples year round, and buy produce that could not be grown in the climate I live in. But I pick my battles, and legitimate pumpkin timing is one of them.)
Late Summer Dinner Party
Grilled Peach and Jalapeno Salad in a Yogurt, Cashew and Toasted Sesame Dressing
Sage, Leek and Pretzel Bread Strata
Banana Bread and Honey Fennel Ice Cream Sandwiches
Coffee served with Cream and Sugar
Early Fall Dinner Party
Butternut Squash andToasted Hazelnut Soup with Goat Cheese
Clay-Baked Garlic and Paprika Chicken with Roasted Parsnips, Red Onion and Mushrooms
Herb Bread with Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Plum Crumble
Coffee served with Cream and Sugar
Late Fall Dinner Party
Roasted Brussels Sprout ‘Salad’ with Candied Walnuts and Pecans
Slow-Roasted Carrots with Sea Salt and Cracked Pepper
Maple Smoked Salmon on a Bed of Wilted Kale with a Light Maple Syrup and Cayenne Dressing
Cider-Poached Pears with Ginger and Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream
Coffee or Port