ENTERTAINING ON THE EASY

THE HIP HOSTESS ILANA ECK SHARES HER TIPS FOR THE RIPEST PICK OF THE FALL PARTY SEASON

APPLE-PICKING PARTY

Early fall is the perfect time to host an apple-picking party—a fun outdoor activity that will get everyone outside
to enjoy the crisp, sunny weather. Make it an early-afternoon event and plan a post-picking picnic if the weather
permits. Or, plan a late-afternoon picking and head back to your house for a casual apple-themed dinner. Apples
are grown in all 50 states, with California, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington as the top
apple producers. To find a local orchard in your area, visit www.pickyourown.org.

PROVISIONS

Bring sturdy tote bags or baskets for carting your bounty home.
Pack a few blankets (and a tarp or garbage bags to put underneath the blankets in case the ground is damp) for lounging or picnicking.
Bring picnic basket basics—plates, spoons, a sturdy knife and napkins—if you plan to picnic.
Dress in layers to keep yourself comfortable while picking; you may want an extra layer if you plan to lounge around afterward.
Bring some extra cash along for orchard goodies, such as fresh-pressed cider, cider donuts and pies.

PICKING POINTERS

Pick apples from the outer branches, since that’s where they ripen first.
Choose apples that are firm and bruise-free.
Lift the apple and gently twist it off the tree—don’t pull or tug straight away from the tree.
To prevent bruising, gently place apples in a basket rather than tossing them in.

STORAGE TIPS

Leave the stems on the apples—it helps for storing them longer.
Store unwashed apples in a cool basement or in a refrigerated vegetable drawer.
Wash apples just before using to prevent spoilage.

MENUS

Apple-Picking Picnic Menu
Butternut squash bisque*
Green apple, cheddar and Dijon sandwiches on whole-grain bread*
Caramel dipping sauce, sprinkles, chopped nuts and mini chocolate chips

Hip Tips

Pack the soup in a thermos and serve in small mugs.
Slice the cheese and bread for the sandwiches before you leave home and layer with fresh sliced apples and Dijon when ready to eat.
Buy a premade caramel sauce or make your own and bring in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Serve the caramel apple toppings on small plates with spoons so everyone can make their own creation.

Casual Apple-Themed Dinner Menu
Sliced apples, brie cheese and a baguette
Apple-beet slaw*
Cider-roasted chicken*
Mashed celaric (celery root) or potatoes*
Apple and pear crumble with vanilla bean ice cream*

Hip Tips

Prepare the slaw up to three days in advance. The mashed celaric can be made in the morning and reheated in the microwave before serving. The apple and pear crumble can be made earlier in the day and reheated while dinner is on the table.
Use a few apples to make apple candleholders for your table. Make a flat surface for the apple to sit on by slicing a small piece off the bottom. Use a melon baller or small scoop to carve a half circle in the stem area of the apple, just large enough to hold a tea light. Insert a tea light (with its thin metal cover) into the carved center and gently press until it is flush with the flesh of the apple.
As a parting gift, give your guests homemade candy apples (dipped in caramel and covered in nuts, sprinkles, mini M&Ms or all of the above). Place in a cello bag and tie with yarn.

*Recipes available at www.hiphostessblog.com.

Ilana Eck is an attorney by day and the Hip Hostess by night. She writes a food and entertaining blog, www.hiphostessblog.com, offering recipes, tips and ideas for hosting with style. Ilana lives in New York City with her husband, Etienne, and doesn’t let her small space stop her from entertaining at home.