When summer and warm temperatures finally arrive, most of us want to spend as much time outdoors as possible, including enjoying meals outside. Dining alfresco comes from an Italian term al fresco, which loosely translates to "in fresh air" and simply means eating outside. Eating outside is a welcome treat here in the mountains, especially after the piles of winter snow melt away and the patio furniture is uncovered and ready for action.
Technically dining al fresco could be in any outdoor location from parks to restaurants, but what better way to turn your beautiful vacation home's deck or rooftop patio into a memorable al fresco dining experience? Indulge with your guests in a more refined al fresco style with a beautiful table setting, comfortable seating, and delicious summer foods.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN DINING AL FRESCO AT HOME
There are many benefits to dining outdoors: you get to enjoy the beautiful nature around you with your friends and family, breathe fresh air, gaze at the view… But to make the most of your experience, here are some important things to consider.
1. Check the weather
Colorado weather can vary by day, or by the hour. Check the weather and pick a day when you aren't expecting a lot of rain or wind. With that said, things can change on a dime, so just be prepared. Temperatures cool down once the sun goes down too, so plan for early meals, or have heaters or warm sweaters handy.
2. Set the table
This is the fun part. Beautiful al fresco dining can be dressed up casual-classy with table linens or placemats, fresh flowers, battery-powered candles (safety first!), and fun place settings. Layering plates with a folded napkin on top is an easy way to fancy up your table. On vacation? Don't be afraid to mix and match what is on hand, try colorful paper or plastic settings with whimsical decorations, napkins, or fun string lights. Finally, sparkling glassware adds festiveness and ambiance.
3. Pick the food
Summer brings plenty of healthy and colorful options to give your al fresco dining some wow factor. Keep the recipes simple with lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, and offerings from the local farmer's market. Try a beautiful salad, homemade bread, and freshly grilled fish cooked on your outdoor grill. Pasta with fresh cherry tomatoes, basil, and parmesan and a watermelon salad on the side is a big summertime hit, or shish kabobs, corn on the cob, and a cucumber tomato salad. Dessert lovers will enjoy ice cream and berries served in small mason jars for a farmhouse feel, or a simple strawberry shortcake. Don't be afraid to pick up a fresh dessert from your local bakery - after all, you are on vacation.
Not in the mood to cook? Ask us to arrange a private chef to prepare and serve your al fresco meal.
4. Summer cocktails
Cocktail or mocktail, what is dining outside without a fun fruity or frozen drink in your hand? There’s a variety of summer cocktails that indulge the flavors of the season such as minty Mojitos, strawberry margaritas, or a delicious mango daiquiri. For the kids, mix up a strawberry lemonade punch by blending strawberries with a can of frozen lemonade concentrate, topped with lemon-lime soda.
5. Pick the venue
Of course, the perfect al fresco dinner happens at the perfect vacation home with a perfect deck, patio, or rooftop to make your al fresco dining party the best it can be.
CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR FAVORITE DECKS IN OUR MOVING MOUNTAINS LUXURY MOUNTAIN VACATION HOMES IN:
