Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party, a casual get-together or even running a professional catering business, fall is a great time of year to get inspired.
With vibrant colours, smoky aromas, and colder days, hearty comfort foods and fresh seasonal produce are the order of the day!
Below, we explore five fall catering ideas that will inspire you for the new season.
1. Seasonal Items
It’s a great idea to use fresh, seasonal produce whenever possible, but fall can be extra exciting! The fiery colors, earthy flavors, and endless array of spices in both food and drink can stimulate the senses.
If you have the option to also use local produce, such as from a local grower or farmer’s market, even better. But if not, just use fruits and vegetables that are appropriate for the time of year.
Cinnamon apple pie, a hearty root cake or stew, and a roast dinner are all favorites—along with the highly seasonal pumpkin spice! Whether you and your guests prefer sweet or savory, light or filling, autumn has a range of suitable ingredients and flavours to choose from.
Bonfire Night
The popular British tradition of Bonfire Night is a great opportunity for a variety of fall flavors. Toffee apples, hot chocolate, sausages, and parkin are often favorites.
Host your own party from home-no matter how big or small-and make it family-friendly with a fruit punch for the kids and a themed cocktail for the adults. You can also pack your own fall picnic and take it to a local bonfire. Tasty sandwiches, granola bars, and a bottle of coffee would all be spot on.
However you celebrate it, fall can be a great time to take inspiration from the holidays and festive traditions happening all around you—including Halloween and the Harvest Festival. See what you can enjoy in your area and create your own events too!
Plant-Based Options
Because seasonal produce is so distinctive and enticing at this time of year, there’s never been a better time to explore plant-based options. Make the most of your fruits and vegetables with fresh, tasty recipes, and don’t hesitate to look up online resources if you’re unsure.
More people than ever before are reducing their meat intake and increasing their vegetable consumption. This can have very beneficial effects on both your health and the planet. Why not start by making one of your own personal favourites more plant-based, such as a hot dog, burger, or chosen soup? There are more plant-based options available than ever before—even for your favourite meat and cheese styles!
If you cater to guests—or run a culinary business—offering a plant-based option is always highly appreciated. It’s not just for vegans, vegetarians, and those with allergies. Plant-based eating can be healthy, vibrant, and exciting; ideal for adventurous meat eaters!
4. Oktoberfest
Why not get some inspiration from abroad this fall season? Celebrations like Germany’s Oktoberfest are becoming more common—London is celebrating its own version!—and they often have great food ideas.
Sausages (including plant-based options), pretzels, fresh bread, quality beer, and more can all be found-often by a roaring fire or in a cosy pub. Create your own party outside at a barbecue or in the cosy seclusion of your lounge.
As the nights draw closer, celebrations and gatherings over dinner are a great way to keep the spirits high during the darker months. Food has long been known for its many mood-boosting properties, and fall is a great time to take advantage of them!
5. Special hot beverages
A certain famous coffee producer launches their Pumpkin Spiced Latte at this time of year-so why not make your own? A wide variety of fall flavours are perfect in drinks, even if you don’t have time to cook an elaborate meal.
For example, adding cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg will instantly make a drink feel more warming and soothing. You can be inspired by fall favourites such as apple pie, spiced cider, hot chocolate and pumpkin dishes. Be as creative as you dare!
Hot drinks are also a great way to cuddle and connect with loved ones on cooler evenings, as well as endlessly invite guests and clients!