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Exploring the Perfect Pairings: Autumn Harvest Recipes with Knox Vineyards.

Writer's picture: Matthew Matthew

Autumn is a season of change, with leaves transforming into vibrant colors and harvest time offering a bounty of fresh, tasty ingredients. What better way to celebrate this season than with comforting dishes paired with the exquisite wines from Knox Vineyards. In this post, we will take you on a culinary journey, featuring autumn harvest recipes that beautifully complement the flavors of Knox Vineyards.




The Essence of Autumn Flavors


As daylight fades and the air turns crisp, kitchens become warm havens filled with delightful aromas. Autumn flavors shine through earthy vegetables, hearty grains, and spices that evoke memories of holiday gatherings. Seasonal ingredients like butternut squash, apples, and root vegetables can elevate both savory and sweet dishes.


When crafting your autumn menu, think about how these ingredients enhance the depth of Knox Vineyards. Whether you opt for reds, whites, or rosés, each pairing can elevate your meal into a memorable experience.


Roasted Butternut Squash Soup


One of the standout autumn recipes is roasted butternut squash soup. Its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor make it the perfect starter for gatherings.


Ingredients:


  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 4 cups vegetable broth

  • 1 cup coconut milk

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Olive oil for roasting

  • Fresh herbs (thyme or sage) for garnish


Instructions:


  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).


  2. Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.


  3. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.


  4. Add the roasted squash and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes.


  5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.


  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.


Wine Pairing:


Pair this creamy soup with a glass of Niagara. Its crisp acidity combined with notes of apple and pear perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the squash while balancing the richness of the coconut milk.


Apple and Goat Cheese Salad


This light and fresh salad showcases autumn's flavors while pairing well with heartier dishes.


Ingredients:


  • Mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice)

  • 2 apples, thinly sliced (choose a mix for added flavor, like Honey crisp and Granny Smith)

  • 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled

  • 1/4 cup pecans, toasted

  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries

  • Olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dressing


Instructions:


  1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, apples, goat cheese, pecans, and cranberries.


  2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, tossing gently to coat.


  3. Serve immediately as a refreshing side.


Wine Pairing:


Enjoy a glass of Catawba with this salad. The wine's floral notes beautifully enhance the tangy goat cheese and sweet apples, creating a delightful contrast on your palate.


Honey-Glazed Root Vegetables


A warm dish of honey-glazed root vegetables perfectly embodies the spirit of autumn and highlights seasonal produce.


Ingredients:


  • 2 carrots, sliced

  • 2 parsnips, sliced

  • 1 sweet potato, cubed

  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh thyme for garnish


Instructions:


  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).


  2. Toss all the vegetables in a bowl with honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.


  3. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.


  4. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.


Wine Pairing:


These hearty vegetables pair beautifully with our Noiret. The bold flavors of the wine complement the sweetness of the roasted vegetables, enhancing their natural caramelization, which can improve your dining experience significantly.


Spiced Pumpkin Pie


Every autumn gathering needs a classic pumpkin pie. This dessert is a must-have, sure to please anyone at your table.


Ingredients:


  • 1 pre-made pie crust

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée

  • 3/4 cup brown sugar

  • 2 eggs

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice

  • Salt to taste


Instructions:


  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).


  2. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, heavy cream, spices, and salt until smooth.


  3. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake for 15 minutes.


  4. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set.


  5. Allow to cool before serving.


Wine Pairing:


For a delightful finish, serve this dessert with our Corot Noir. It enhances the spices and sweetness of the pumpkin pie, leaving your guests satisfied and happy.


Savoring Autumn Together


As the leaves fall and the air transforms, autumn invites us to indulge in a feast of warm, comforting flavors. By including seasonal ingredients in your meals and pairing them with Knox Vineyards, you can create an inviting atmosphere for family and friends.


Autumn is not just about food; it’s about gathering, sharing experiences, and creating memories. Use these recipes as inspiration to explore the delicious possibilities that this season has to offer. Here’s to a wonderful autumn filled with good food and great wine!

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