Celebrate autumn with this festive menu showcasing apples, pears, butternut squash and more. These tips will help you host a perfect gathering:
- Decorate the table and space in warm autumn hues of amber, gold, brown, copper and taupe.
- Layer round placemats over rectangular ones to add texture and color.
- Decorate the mantel or sideboard with fall fruit, such as pomegranates or apples, along with branches and votive candles.
- Fold napkins into squares, tie each with a length of ribbon, and tuck in a spray of dried grass or wheat.
Wine recommendations: Serve an off-dry Riesling or a citrusy Sauvignon Blanc. For the red, choose a light and spicy wine, such as Syrah or Pinot Noir.
Work plan:
Up to 1 day in advance:
Make the flatbread
Prepare the celery for the salad
Up to 12 hours in advance:
Make the ravioli filling
Up to 2 hours in advance:
Make the ravioli
Before dinner:
Prepare the cider
Assemble the salad
Cook the ravioli
Make the crisp

Spiced Hard Apple Cider
Manchego Cheese and Quince Paste with Sesame Flatbread
Celery, Pear and Toasted Hazelnut Salad
Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter and Pecans
Apple-Pear Crisp