Be it casual and relaxed, or stylish and elegant, Al Fresco eating certainly brings magic to the table. Eating in the open, under a tree, umbrella or covered patio, is one of the pleasures that our lovely summers spoil us with. It is the ideal way to entertain and equally good for a romantic meal for two.
Al Fresco eating calls for all those favourite summer recipes, cold and cured meats, a braai on the side with all the wonderful salads and side dishes, summery deserts and good wine. There are few things as relaxing as a long afternoon lunch under a tree or dinner on a warm evening with a table set with candles and lanterns.
Setting the scene is almost just as important as the food - the right atmosphere brings all the magic to the table.
There are thousand's of ideas you can use to make the most of what you have. Just a few of the right items will go all the way. Be creative and see what you have, a simple clever combination is all you need.
The most important element is where you place the table. Find the best spot you have, consider how the sun and shade will effect it, as well as possible wind. Try to make the most of the view, be it a landscape or a wall covered in flowering bougainvillea. Courtyards can be softened with small trees and shrubs in containers, and colorful flowers or herbs in pots.
Decorate the tables with what you have or like - from fresh herbs, pot plants, flowers to fruit. Let your creativity take over and indulge your senses - it will certainly be enjoyed by all!
Use colour as a theme, bright or subdued, to suit your taste and to bring everything together. Apart from that all you have to do is plan your menu carefully, get all the preparation done in advance, and enjoy the whole experience with your friends.
Don't be afraid to mix everything you like. Salads can be crisp, set in moulds or served as mousses. Hot and cold vegetables or side dishes can be served alongside each other. Meat dishes can be cold, cured or hot. Load the table with breads, preserves and cheeses - make it a real feast. Having a fire on the side not only adds to the magic, but tasty skewers with vegetables, sosaties or grilling the main course will add a bit of drama and a whole lot of magic!
There are thousand's of ideas you can use to make the most of what you have. Just a few of the right items will go all the way. Be creative and see what you have, a simple clever combination is all you need.
The most important element is where you place the table. Find the best spot you have, consider how the sun and shade will effect it, as well as possible wind. Try to make the most of the view, be it a landscape or a wall covered in flowering bougainvillea. Courtyards can be softened with small trees and shrubs in containers, and colorful flowers or herbs in pots.
Decorate the tables with what you have or like - from fresh herbs, pot plants, flowers to fruit. Let your creativity take over and indulge your senses - it will certainly be enjoyed by all!
Use colour as a theme, bright or subdued, to suit your taste and to bring everything together. Apart from that all you have to do is plan your menu carefully, get all the preparation done in advance, and enjoy the whole experience with your friends.
Don't be afraid to mix everything you like. Salads can be crisp, set in moulds or served as mousses. Hot and cold vegetables or side dishes can be served alongside each other. Meat dishes can be cold, cured or hot. Load the table with breads, preserves and cheeses - make it a real feast. Having a fire on the side not only adds to the magic, but tasty skewers with vegetables, sosaties or grilling the main course will add a bit of drama and a whole lot of magic!