Catering for a Friend

This past weekend, a friend and former kitchen colleague had a beautiful wedding ceremony at a gorgeous puget sound location. The night before, I had the honor of catering the rehearsal dinner for  her very close friends and family.

For many years, I have assisted many chefs in their catering gigs even back when I was just a culinary student.  Catering has it's many quirks. Each event is unique, each site is different and has it's own challenges to overcome and compensate for. 

Yet with challenges and uncertainties, and time not being on my side, the vision was realized.  We were lucky to arrive to a gorgeous water-side house with a fully loaded kitchen, and with a plan, managed to put out the menu without a glitch.

It is a special feeling to have accomplished something of my own - with the help of a couple of supportive friends - but still my own in concept, recipes, flavor profiles, direction, and execution.  It's a true high.

Here are some images:

Theme:  Casual, Family Style BBQ

Menu:

Roasted Vegetables finished with balsamic vinaigrette

Slow Roasted Brisket, Warmed Coleslaw, Pickled Onions, Tomato Jam (not pictured), 

Spicy bbq sauce

Grilled Chicken Breast, Summer Vegetables, Tangy bbq sauce

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad with Chipotle Vinaigrette

Herbed Corn Bread

Lemon Merengue Tartlettes

Strawberry-Raspberry Galette

Rhubarb Shortbread