Autumnal Bounty Dinner Party

"It is better to give than to receive." Sometimes I wonder about that adage. I believe the outcome depends upon which side you're on, the giving or the receiving. It's really just a matter of perspective. Last spring, AngelFood gave a gift certificate for a 6-course dinner party to the Moravian Academy. The gift certificate held a place at a massive silent auction during the Moravian Academy Ball (which was a blast!). It seemed like the certificate was lost amongst the many other entries vying for attention at the ball. Well, if it was lost, that evening it certainly got found. The winning bidder was a lovely lady from a town just up the road from us. After some discussion about food preferences, we developed a menu that we kept secret until that evening. On the menu: Butternut Ravioli in Walnut Sage Butter (photo on left) Wild Mushroom Cappuccino Baby Greens with Pomegranate Vinaigrette, 5-spice Pepitas and Goat Cheese (photo on right) Cranberry Thyme Sorbet (photo on left, served in cordial glasses with rainbow rock sugar and demitasse spoon) Roasted Rack of Lamb with Fig Relish, Pear (shaped)Potato Croquettes and Romanesco (photo on right. Romanesco is Roman Cauliflower.) Pear Tart with Brown Sugar Ice Cream and Balsamic Syrup It's an understatement to report that a good time was had by all. Although we did provide the gift certificate, we were far from the giving end of this event. When all of the AngelFood stars align and we're able to offer the impeccable service of beautiful food to gracious hosts and their appreciative guests, we feel as though we are the recipients of wonderful gifts.