I have several vintage cookbooks that are my absolutely favorite things to read on a rainy day. There is something so relaxing about reading recipes, table setting ideas, and ways to wow your guests all from the comfort of your couch. And it seems the older the book, the more descriptive and detailed the ideas become. How to set a table for different meals throughout the day using the same centerpiece tickles some domestic part of me. The proper way to serve coffee following a buffet dinner or how to greet guests right when they walk in the door while making sure your dinner doesn’t burn in the oven are all fascinating tidbits to learn. So when it comes to having friends or family over, even if I don’t serve one recipe mentioned, I will always start by reading one of my vintage cookbooks. It puts me in the right frame of mind and ensures I plan the most perfect meal.
Today I wanted to share with you one fabulous meal entitled Harvest Feast. This comes from my Betty Crocker Hostess Cookbook from 1967. I adore this cookbook and am pretty sure I have read it at least 20 times with no signs of getting bored of it yet! While I have to be honest and say that I can’t see myself cooking any of these recipes (except maybe the cake), I absolutely adore the idea of having a meal focused on harvest. Not a Thanksgiving meal mind you, but a dinner that embraces all things warm, cozy, and autumn. Here are the two pages from the cookbook which outline exactly how to create your own Harvest Feast:
Any proper Harvest Feast must have the proper table setting. Here are few of my favorite pieces:
Natural Leaves Placement from Pier One
Pumpkin Soup Tureen from Macys
So whether its a harvest feast for two or twenty, embrace the tones, textures, and flavors this season has to offer!
