SIMPLY DELICIOUS! SIMPLY CYNTHIA!

Cooking for family and friends in the summer can be as easy and delicious as a BBQ of grilled chicken and fresh corn but when you decide to host a large group you need to bring in the big guns. A professional caterer.  I wanted our party to be elegant (not stuffy) and highlight the delicious summer vegetables and fish available on the East End in a modern and inventive style. I interviewed several caterers asking them for sample menus, availability and cost and chose Cynthia Battaglia, a Sag Harbor based caterer with a delightful personality and classic but inventive style.  Cynthia immediately put my mind at ease. We went through an extensive list of sample hors d'oeuvres (they all looked delicious!) and chose....

 

Corn and shrimp fritters

Petite Crab cakes with spicy remoulade

Seared Tuna on cucumber with wasabi caviar

Sirloin wrapped in bacon with gorgonzola on a skewer

Mushroom truffle risotto bundles

Local red and yellow tomato, mozzarella stacks with fresh basil

Thai chicken salad in phyllo cups with spicy peanut sauce

Cynthia's tips:

-include vegetarian alternatives for your guests

-half the hors d'oeuvres should be hot and half cold 

-include a variety:  2 vegetarian, 2 meat, 2 fish 

-make sure you have enough: for a 2 hour cocktail party you should be prepared to serve 12 hors d'oeuvres per person

 Cynthia's trays were modern and nature inspired.  White beans line a sleek black lacquer tray and beautiful greens and flowers add visual interest.

Her amazing staff working hard to make the party look effortless!

 

Delicious mushroom truffle risotto bundles and seared tuna-perfect summer fare! 

Hope you are all enjoying your Labor Day!

See you soon, Barbara