Make the most of seasonal produce this autumn with California walnuts

As the leaves start to fall and we welcome in the jumper wearing, conker cracking autumn season (or ‘fall’ as our Cali friends call it) it’s the perfect time to plan a cosy evening in.

To help you make the most of delicious seasonal produce, we’ve put together a simple and flavoursome three course menu that you can enjoy at home – in that favourite cosy jumper – with your nearest and dearest…

To start…

Make the most of the beetroot season with this deliciously indulgent sharing starter, the California Walnut and Rosemary Crusted Goats Cheese with Beetroot Carpaccio. With a creamy, moreish baked goats’ cheese encased in a tantalising rosemary and walnut crust, this simple dish is a real crowd pleaser.

For the main…

This California Walnut and Pumpkin Open Lasagne is a truly different take on a comforting classic. Using autumnal pumpkin, creamy mascarpone and feta, and a fragrant, crunchy mix of sautéed California walnuts and sage, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to be one your guests haven’t tried before… but one where they’ll come back for more.

For dessert…

Our Flourless California Walnut Cake really is pear-fection and it just so happens to be gluten free too. Served with juicy, spiced poached pears and a dollop of crème fraiche, it makes a stunning centrepiece to wow family and friends.

Now the menu’s planned, why not get creative with your table dressing? Here are our three top tips for an awesomely autumnal table.

• Feel the foliage – collect large fallen leaves and write your guests’ names on them in a gold or silver pen as a place setter, adding a luxurious twist to your dinner party at no additional cost.

• Ditch the floral centrepiece for a squash/gourd masterpiece – head to your local farmers’ market or greengrocers and peruse their selection. Mini pumpkins (or munchkins) make for an excellent conversation starter.

• Stock up on tea lights – nothing creates a cosy feeling quite like flickering candles. Try floating tea lights in a large bowl of water with pine cones for an extra autumnal feel.

All you have to do now is decide who’s lucky enough to be invited over for dinner…