Nibbles for Al Fresco Dining

Dining al fresco is upon us in southeast Louisiana with favorable weather in the afternoon. It’s a nice change of pace to sit outside and enjoy a few nibbles or a casual meal. It’s also a nice change in how I structure the meal. I prefer to make a few sharable appetizers rather than one large meal. Below are a few ideas to motivate you to enjoy dining outdoors.

This Peach and Prosciutto Tart is perfect for al fresco dining with a side salad. If you don’t have ripe peaches easily swap defrosted and drained frozen peaches, or substitue any stone fruit that is in season.

We’re seeing the last of our herbs and tomatoes as we head into cooler weather. My Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad is a great way to combine tomatoes and basil and serve it on a large platter to easily share these delicate flavors.

Manchego Truffled Popcorn is what I crave when I want a crunchy nibble packed with flavor. Light up the fire pit and start nibbling.

Give me a Country Terrine, delicious mustard and a glass of wine and I set for outdoor dining. I often teach this recipe in my cooking classes, and I always enjoy hearing how much you enjoy making and sharing this recipe.

Chorizo Lentils with Poached Eggs is a one pot meal that is perfect for cozying up to in chillier weather. The heartier flavors are a welcome combination for al fresco dining.

I call this The Simplest of Cakes for a good reason. It truly is simple to make this single layer cake the can be eaten plain for breakfast or a dessert. It can easily be dressed up with fruit preserves, a dusting of powdered sugar and season fruit as you gather around an outdoor fireplace for your al fresco dining.