  I've always believed that the heart of any memorable event lies in the joy of sharing delightful food. During the holiday season, this belief is even more significant. Today I wish to share with you one of my go-to recipes for casual, drop-in guests. This recipe is a consistent crowd-pleaser at all my events when served - the Mushroom Flatbread. More than just an appetizer, it’s a conversation starter, a centerpiece of casual elegance that keeps my guests asking for more. The appeal of the Mushroom Flatbread lies in its simplicity and versatility. With a few readily available ingredients, you can have this dish ready in no time, making it ideal for holiday gatherings and spontaneous drop in guests. The base is either homemade or pre-made pizza dough, and here’s a little caterer’s tip: bake the dough first, brushing it with garlic-infused olive oil while still warm, for that extra zing. The topping I recommend is a mix of assorted mushrooms - cremini, shitake, oyster - or any combination that tickles your fancy. Roast these with red peppers in garlic oil, adding a pinch of salt and pepper for taste. The blend of mushrooms not only adds a rustic charm but also a rich, umami flavor that complements the festive season. The final touch is slices of brie cheese and shaved parmesan, melting into the warm dough to create a gooey, irresistible texture. For your friends with dietary restrictions, you can offer a gluten-free version using gluten-free dough, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this savory treat. And while the combination of mushrooms and red peppers is a client favorite, I encourage experimentation. Try alternative toppings like caramelized onions, spinach, or even artichokes to add your personal twist to this versatile recipe. What sets this flatbread apart is not just its taste but also its presentation. Once out of the oven, cut it into squares for easy serving. It’s not only a dish but a visual treat, with its golden-brown crust and vibrant toppings making it a festive centerpiece on any holiday table. Pair it with a glass of your favorite wine or a festive cocktail and you have the perfect setup for a cozy holiday evening. The Mushroom Flatbread is more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder of the simple pleasures of life - good food, good company, and the warmth of sharing. As we welcome guests this year, let this Mushroom Flatbread be a part of your holiday celebrations. Easy to prepare, delightful to taste, and a sight to behold, it's a recipe that speaks the language of love and joy. From my kitchen to yours, here’s to a season of effortless entertaining and lasting memories! So, this holiday season, try this Mushroom Flatbread recipe and watch as it becomes a new holiday favorite in your home, just as it has in mine and the many homes I've had the pleasure of catering to. Happy holidays and happy hosting to all of you, my friends. RECIPE
Ingredients and easy steps
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Nola’s Events would love to assist in making your dream a reality. Here is our story of how we can make this happen for you: As a local, Premier Boutique Catering & Event Planning Company, it is a true pleasure to be a part of the planning and execution process of a beautiful, outdoor wedding rain or shine. From the initial consultation meeting with a couple, we know when an event is going to be a special event that requires careful planning and attention to detail. Every event we plan gets the special attention it requires. During the planning process, we work closely with the couple to understand their vision for the day. Our couples want an outdoor wedding that feels elegant, unique, and timeless, with a focus on delicious food that impresses and appeals to their guests. We love hearing their ideas and find working together to create a menu that would bring their vision to life very satisfying. Being the creative artists we are, we spend countless hours testing recipes, selecting the perfect ingredients, and designing the presentation for each dish. We want every bite to be delicious and visually appealing, so we put our hearts into every detail. As the day of the wedding approaches, we are thrilled to see all the details coming to fruition. We arrive early to set up the outdoor dining area, making sure that everything is arranged perfectly and that every detail is in place. If a space is new to us, we visit weeks in advance to map out the area. When a site is familiar, we are able to make recommendations that will contribute to the success of the event.  We plan ahead for the moment the guests start arriving so that details are set for guests to effortlessly park and get situated. We want them to become immersed in the setting and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, the delicious appetizers, and the refreshing drinks. We are thrilled when we hear their compliments about the food, and it is rewarding to see them enjoy every bite. Throughout the event, we not only work hard to keep the food flowing, making sure that everyone had enough to eat and that the service is impeccable, we also monitor the grounds to make sure that all activities are going as planned. It is very gratifying to see the happy couple and their guests enjoying the delicious food, dancing to the music, and celebrating the special day without being concerned about a thing. It is our satisfaction to know our impeccable attention to detail is instrumental in making that possible. As the event draws to a close, we feel a deep sense of satisfaction and joy. We are so grateful to be a part of each wonderful event and to have had the opportunity to create a memorable and delicious experience for the happy couple and their guests.  As the event draws to a close, we feel a deep sense of satisfaction and joy. We are so grateful to be a part of each wonderful event and to have had the opportunity to create a memorable and delicious experience for the happy couple and their guests. As we look back on the entire process of planning and executing the wedding, we feel a great sense of pride and accomplishment. When we are able to bring the couple's vision to life and create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved our mission is accomplished. It is truly a pleasure to be a part of each special day, and we look forward to creating more beautiful memories for our clients in the future. The following is a list we’ve created to help planning your outdoor event be easy and worry free. We continue to add to this list from our experiences from challenges that arise to the solutions that are found. Outdoor Event Planning List Overall, planning a summer outdoor wedding requires careful consideration and preparation, and it can result in a beautiful and unforgettable event for everyone involved. Let’s look at some of the things we know to be important as you consider an outdoor event and choose the right location for you and your guests. Weather conditions: We in the Pacific Northwest know how changeable the weather is! Make the Boy Scout Moto your own: “Be Prepared”. It seems obvious yet, consider the typical weather patterns for the time of year you plan to host your event. Choose a location that offers shade or shelter if the weather is hot or rainy. Tip: If there is a chance of rain, have umbrellas handy! Or perhaps set up portable tents for comfort stations. As you invite guests and gather your wedding party have them “dress for the weather”. Provide shade, hydration and in those extreme chilly areas – a heating station or bonfire.  Accessibility: Consider the location's proximity to your guests and whether there is ample parking or transportation options available. Also, check if the location is handicap accessible. Do you have guests with special needs? How can you make the site available to them as well. Regulations and permits: Check if the location requires any special permits or regulations that may impact your event. For example, some locations may have noise ordinances or restrictions on alcohol consumption. Nola’s Events has a liquor license and is accompanied by our very own bar tender with her magical touch. Catering and alcohol policies: Check if the location allows outside catering and alcohol or if they have in-house catering and bar services. Let us share with you local event locations that welcome your full bar for your guests.  Lighting: Provide appropriate lighting for the outdoor space, such as string lights or lanterns, to create a romantic and enchanting atmosphere Natural surroundings: Choose a location with natural surroundings that complement your event's theme and style. For example, a beach or garden location is perfect for a romantic or nature-inspired wedding. In the Pacific Northwest many vendors are ready to create your perfect space. Timing: Schedule the ceremony and reception during cooler times of the day, such as late afternoon or early evening. Consider travel time from other locations. Is it a destination wedding where all will be accommodated nearby or is it a one-day event where they need to travel to the location?  Insect control: How will you manage insects, such as mosquitoes or flies, that can be a nuisance for guests. Check with the venue to know what to expect and their recommendations for solutions! Outdoor-friendly décor: Choose décor that is suitable for outdoor use, such as potted plants, lanterns, or natural elements such as wood or stone. With our experience, we are able to advise about these details – somethings work well and others “melt” or blow away… Amenities: Check if the location offers necessary amenities such as restrooms, seating, lighting, and sound systems. Do they offer set up and take down or will you need to handle that yourself? Is the area quite so a sound system is not necessary for guests to hear the ceremony?  Power sources: Ensure that there are power sources available for lighting, sound, and any other equipment needed for the wedding. Capacity: Choose a location that can comfortably accommodate the number of guests you plan to invite. Do you wish to have a private small gathering or an extra-large event? Noise and traffic: Consider noise levels and traffic patterns in the area, especially if you plan to host your event during peak traffic hours. Perhaps even animal interruptions like cows or other critters.  Privacy: Consider if the location offers privacy for your event. Ensure that there are no competing events or disturbances that may impact your guests' experience if that is your personal preference. Some public spaces cannot protect the privacy of your event. (think wedding crashers) Costs: Understand the costs associated with the location, including rental fees, deposit requirements, and any additional fees for services such as catering or parking. Also, check if the location offers any discounts or packages for certain days or times of the year. Planning an outdoor event includes attention to detail. We would love to meet with you and assist you in planning. Contact us today to get started right now. [email protected]   The team at Nola’s Events thrives on crafting amazing experiences uniquely designed for each of our clients. We specialize in personalizing your Wedding or event celebration experience. We take pride in our local and sustainable catering, event planning, and wedding coordination services. One of the reasons you hire us is because planning an event can be a complex and challenging task. It requires attention to detail and the ability to anticipate and solve problems. Our skilled staff allows you to relax and enjoy your own event. It is our joy to allow you to have a worry-free event and and it is clear from our client's rave reviews that we have done so. We are excited to share with you two recent reviews that more than made our day! Thank you!   Holiday Cocktail Party – Katy W. “Nola's provided catering and bartending services for our holiday cocktail party with about 30 friends at our home. I corresponded with Nola herself a couple of times in the weeks leading up to the event, and she was very accommodating and patient with me as I changed my mind a couple of times regarding the menu and level of service. It is not cheap to have an event catered, period, but we wanted to have it be an extra-special celebration where we could enjoy ourselves with our guests without the hassle of preparing, warming, plating and serving food and making individual cocktails for everyone. Nola's came through, big time! Nola herself and her bartender, Brandi, arrived a couple of hours early and got themselves set up. We barely had to do a thing once we discussed with them where the bar and food platters should go. We got to just go upstairs and take our time getting ready, and come down a few minutes before the party start time and have Brandi fix us a drink to have in hand as our guests arrived. So luxurious! The party was so fun, thanks in large part to Nola and Brandi and the fabulous food, drinks, and service. Our guests raved about all of the yummy platters - particularly the shrimp with aioli sauce, the mushroom flatbread bites, the smoked salmon toasts, and the charcuterie board with roasted and pickled vegetables. People got extra glowy and happy from Brandi's amazing cocktails, including incredible manhattans and French 75s. Nola and Brandi chatted with our guests and even joined in some of the dancing at the end of the evening! We got to get glamorous and visit with everyone fully after so many months of cancelled and postponed events and having to worry about getting together with too many people. It was, in a nutshell, a truly special and memorable event thanks to Nola's, and was completely worth it. We will definitely be using them again. Highly, highly recommend.”   Wedding "Magical Meal" – Katie F. “Incredible experience with Nola's Catering. They were pleasant, professional, and a delight with which to work. They staffed my 40-person wedding at TreeHouse Point and I cannot imagine a more wonderful catering and bartending experience. Thank you for making our out-of-town guests feel comfortable and for helping us create an unbelievable and magical evening.” When we receive your reviews confirming your expectations were met, it truly warms our hearts. Your review not only validates all of the hard work and dedication our team puts into delivering exceptional service and creating unforgettable experiences, it also tells us you were able to relax and have a good time - the whole reason we love doing what we do! Reading your reviews fills the team with a sense of pride and happiness. Knowing that our efforts have made a positive impact on your life and created an unforgettable event truly means so very much. Thank you.  We have two more festive drinks for you today to extend your celebrations! These specialty beverages were created by our personal bartender, Brandi Moery. Brandi adds her magic at many of our events and we share these drinks with you, knowing how much you might enjoy them. Nola's Events can provide all of your alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with our full liquor license or you can provide the beverages and we can serve it for you. CARAMEL APPLE SPARKLER  This drink is a delicious blend of sweet and crisp flavors. It starts with a base of apple cider, which adds a refreshing apple taste. To that, add a splash of sparkling white wine, which adds a bit of effervescence and a touch of dryness. To bring out the sweetness and add a touch of indulgence, we mix in a teaspoon each of caramel, sugar, and cinnamon. The result is a drink that is perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of sweetness and a refreshing apple and sparkling wine finish. It's the perfect drink to enjoy on a cool fall evening, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something special. INGREDIENTS 2 oz apple cider 4 oz sparkling white wine 1 teaspoon caramel 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon DIRECTIONS
 PEAR GIN FIZZ
This sophisticated and unique drink combines the bold flavor of gin with the delicate, sweet taste of pear nectar. To balance out the flavors and add a touch of sweetness, we mix in a half-ounce of simple syrup or maple syrup. The addition of an egg white gives the drink a creamy texture and a luxurious, velvety mouthfeel. A squeeze of fresh lemon adds a bright and refreshing note, while a splash of soda water gives the drink a light and effervescent finish. This drink is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening, or anytime you want to impress your friends with a creative and delicious cocktail. INGREDIENTS 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) gin 1/2 ounce of pear nectar ½ ounce (1 tablespoon) simple syrup or maple syrup 1 egg white* Squeeze of fresh lemon Soda water DIRECTIONS
Looking back over this past year, all of us at Nola’s Events are grateful for the Gifts and Blessings each one of you have given us as we served you and your friends at your events. As 2023 approaches, we celebrate you and the good things to come as we usher in a Bright New Year. Join us as we toast this new year with these tantalizing beverages: – A Cranberry, Bourbon, Negroni. - A Classic or Cadillac Margarita We have been honored to be a part of your 2022 and look forward to the joys 2023 will bring.  CRANBERRY BOURBON NEGRONI with sugar frosted glass SERVES 2 TO 3 PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES INGREDIENTS: 4 ounces pure cranberry soda 2 ounces bourbon 2 ounces Campari 2 ounces sweet vermouth Black Berries & Rosemary for garnish ½ cup Sugar Optional: Ice DIRECTIONS: In a cocktail shaker, add cranberry soda, bourbon, Campari, and vermouth. Top the shaker with a lid and give it a good shake. Moisten the rim of the glass and place it into sugar on a plate. Next, fill the glass halfway full of ice if you desire. Pour the cranberry bourbon mixture into the glass and garnish with berries and sprig of rosemary.  CLASSIC OR CADILLAC MARGARITA INGREDIENTS: 1 Tbsp. freshly grated lime zest 2 Tbsp. coarse salt (high quality) 4 oz. silver tequila (100% agave) 4 oz. fresh lime juice 2 oz. triple sec (high quality or Cointreau) 2 oz. Grand Marnier 2 oz. pure maple syrup (or other sweetener) 5 cups ice cubes DIRECTIONS:
Cheers to You and Yours!
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