Notes from the Cutting Board

BY TRAVIS

SIMMONS | EXECUTIVE CHEF

In the coming months you may find yourself planning a themed party, so here are a couple of tips to help you along the way. First, and this may be most important, you must go all in. If you’re asking yourself “is that too much?” then you probably haven’t gone far enough with the theme. You will know when the theme is just right. Think of your party space as a blank canvas where your vision and theme become a reality. Decorations, music, games, and entertainment are just the starting point for a great themed party, but they are also essential. Don’t hold back with these items!

When it comes to the menu for a themed party, I often will find one ingredient, concept, or a phrase to start building off. Anything that speaks to you from the theme is a great place to start.

Once you have your theme and a good starting point, use recipes that are in your comfort zone no need to try a new, complicated recipe. Go with what you know. You can change an ingredient or name to fit the theme. I enjoy taking traditional recipes and finding clever ways to change them just enough to fit the theme. For example, this year’s Member Guest theme was the movie Animal House. There is a scene from the movie where mashed potatoes play a big role in starting a food fight. I took that inspiration and created garlic herb potato coquettes with a spicy tomato sauce for dipping. The coquettes fit the theme quite well. In short, find the “hook” and run with it.

When building a menu for your guests, start with a couple of different appetizers or snacks. Next, add a salad or two and maybe a vegetable board with a creative dip that would tie back into your party theme. I don’t normally theme the main course items, but if you have a great idea, then go for it. Two or three main dishes usually work for a diverse guest list.

Desserts and/or cocktails are where you can shine with your creativity. Small dessert bites can offer variety and a nice way to tip your hat to the theme. Funky cocktails with fun names, ingredients, and history are another awesome way to emphasize your theme. A Mint Julep is perfect for a Kentucky Derby party or a Great Gatsby-themed event; a Dark and Stormy will amp up the air of intrigue at murder mystery; and, of course, a Piña Colada is perfect for a luau. Don’t forget to play with color at the Breakfast at Tiffany’s Ladies Tennis Member Guest in June we mixed Blue Curaçao and champagne then added a citrus twist to make a Tiffany Blue cocktail that added to festive ambiance (and looked great in photos).

Remember to have fun with whatever the theme may be!