Jeff Mila
Food Editor
BACK TO EARTH
THE AGE OF THE MEGAWEDDING IS OVER. Today’s nuptial celebrations are becoming much more edited affairs than those of previous generations. You needn’t worry about offending the third-cousin-twice-removed because she didn’t receive an invitation.
In addition to the “less is more” idea, social consciousness is leaning increasingly towards eco-friendly and socially responsible events. Organic and local is the key here – from event location to flowers to great food.
For Back to Earth Organic Catering in San Francisco, sustainability isn’t just a marketing gimmick – it’s their passion. Says Back to Earth cofounder Ari Derfel, “Our clients include people who already live an organic lifestyle as well as people who embrace the idea of awareness of self, community and the earth.”
Back to Earth specializes in “serving fresh, seasonal cuisine, vegetarian and vegan fare as well as free-range natural meats and sustainable fish.” BOND
Back to Earth Organic Catering, Berkeley, Calif. Tel 510 652 2000 organiccatering.com
WORDS JEFF MILA / PHOTO CHRIS SOMERS
ORGANIC MENU
Passed Hors d'œuvres
Crab Rangoon Pursettes with Parsley Cream
Baby Artichokes with Lavender Aioli
Wild Mushroom Duxelle on Seasoned Crostini
First Course
Avocado Souptini
Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho
Second Course
Phyllo Wrapped Romaine with Toasted Walnuts, Pomegranate Seeds, Maytag Blue Cheese and Pomegranate Balsamic
Entrees
Braised Saddle of Lamb with Blackberry Mint Reduction, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Bitter Greens
or
Lemon Herb Halibut with Saffron Basmati, Grilled Seasonal Vegetables and Basil Oil
or
Sweet Corn Polenta Napoleon with Arugula Pesto White Beans, Spring Baby Vegetables and Fresh Herbs
Served with Assorted Freshly Baked Artisan Breads and Olive Oil
Desserts
Chocolate Wedding Cake
Fresh Raspberries, Mascarpone Espresso Butter Cream and Raspberry Coulis
Champagne Truffles
Beverages
Strawberry Lemonade
Herbal Tisane
Fair-Trade Coffee
Organic Wine
Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Sparkling Wine
MENU PROPOSAL BY EXECUTIVE CHEF STEPHANIE HIBBERT / BACK TO EARTH CATERING