Pictured is a January wedding reception held in a sunny back yard in Southern California. January is not a typical month one plans an outdoor event, but it ended up the most beautiful day on record. The wedding reception was held at lunch time, and was less formal with simple dishes. Here the bride and groom chose a menu they loved and knew would be popular with their guests.
Appetizers
Appetizers were served from the hosts pool table which was covered with plywood and linens to create a large indoor double sided serving area. The shrimp was served in a cool but spicy tomato sauce with lots of fresh lime juice and avocado. The zesty jalapeño cheese spread was molded into a ring shape and served with crackers. Guests enjoyed the chef prepared quesadillas, with sweet and spicy mango salsa.
For a casual and tasty lunch, We served the tacos traditional style, with double tortillas and flavorful salsas The tacos could have been served with crispy shells which the recipe gives directions for making. Authentic Mexican Red Rice and Black Beans with Chorizo accompanied the tacos. Colorful vegetables were quickly grilled for a crisp and vibrant South American Grilled Vegetable Salad with Cilantro Dressing.
Click on any menu item to go to the recipe.
Wedding Reception Menu
160 guests
Jalapeño Cheese Spread with Crackers
Quesadillas with Brie and Mango Salsa
South American Grilled Vegetable Salad with Queso Fresco and Pepitas and Cilantro Dressing
Tortilla Chips
salsa ranchera, salsa verde, pico de gallo, fresh cilantro, onion and lime
Flourless Chocolate Cupcakes
We used rented square tables to add an interesting shape in the angled yard. The aqua swirl cloths were such a great color, shinny and bright. Using wooden chairs keeps the feeling relaxed and comfortable while crisp white plates and napkins made the setting fresh. The florist assembled the perfect mix of blooms and citrus, displayed in creative containers with the couples pictures circling the base.
Flourless Chocolate Cake Cupcakes
The couple wanted cupcakes instead of a wedding cake. The bride needed them to be gluten free so I used my recipe for Chocolate Flourless Cake to make a mini version. It was the perfect way to end the sunny day!