Magical Dinner Ideas for Entertaining Under Your Pergola
According to studies, pergolas were first seen in some of the earliest garden plans in ancient Egypt dating back to 1400BC. The inspiration at the time could’ve been to merely provide shade from the sun or to add a new layer of beauty and enhancement to the space. Regardless of the original purpose for these pergolas, they have been adding new layers of magic and beauty to spaces. Whether they are placed in a cafe in Capri overlooking the water or in a cozy home with string lights on a winter evening, pergolas do add a magical touch to any space.
Entertaining in your Central Florida home can be quite the magical experience especially under your pergola. We hope to inspire you with some unique ideas to create a magical dinner under your very own pergola.
Italian Evening Under the Stars: Classic roman architecture is probably one of the first things people might think of when they envision pergolas so why not pay tribute to this classic feature with an intimate Italian inspired dinner under your pergola. Whether you choose to adorn your pergola with climbing vines and flowers, or you simply leave it as is, you can create a beautiful classic Italian evening under your pergola. If you’re a chef or chef at heart, create your favorite classic Italian meal and place it in serving bowls and dishes on your table with dishes and glasses creating an atmosphere of comfort. You can even order from your favorite Italian place in Central Florida and plate and serve. The sky is the limit. Wine and appetizers are always a great go-to or even try some new mocktail recipes of classic drinks for a magical evening under your pergola.
Opa! Pergolas for All: Of course we’re suggesting classics because how can we not embrace pergola dining without including some classic pergola inspiration. If Opa has not given it away, we’re going with a Greek inspired evening under your pergola. No, you don’t have to smash plates although if you do, no judgement here. Grab a beautiful salad bowl for a wonderful healthy option serving a nice large classic greek salad along with some hummus, tzatziki, grilled meats or veggies and kababs of your choice. Surely your tastebuds will transport you to a mini vacation. Oh, and If you have a sweet tooth, nothing says Opa! like a great baklava.
Southern Seafood Boil: Now we’ll circle back to a southern classic that still makes for a very magical evening: the outdoor seafood boil! Your pergola and outdoor kitchen is the perfect place to host a very fun dinner involving a hands on eating experience—the seafood boil. Grab some shrimp, corn, and everything in your favorite seafood boil recipe, and get to cooking. Many of the recipes give easy step by step instructions so even the timid chefs will be able to host a seafood boil. Next, grab some newspapers to place on your table under the pergola for a real authentic touch. The beauty of a seafood boil is that you can host this as a magical southern night under the pergola or even a big lunch in your outdoor kitchen near your pool.
BBQ night: BBQ and magical can in fact be in one sentence. In fact, for some, BBQ and magical is the only sentence that makes sense. The truth is, whether you are traveling the world through your tastebuds or indulging in some comfort food under your pergola, a magical evening is all about making your night your own. Light up the hanging string lights on your pergola, grab some cute mason jars with your favorite sweet tea, light up the fire pit and grab your favorite BBQ sides and essentials, your evening will feel like a magical memory. If part of your Central Florida lifestyle treats involves a smoker in the backyard, fire it up for a great homemade evening hosting under your pergola. If not, there are so many delicious local places to support. Have a fabulous evening supporting your local community and creating cozy memories under your pergola.
Magical dining does not always happen outside of the home. In fact, many times the most magical dining experience happen right at home. Your pergola can be the starting point for many evenings of fun and new adventure. With a little creativity and good intention, you will be creating magical evenings before you know it.
Your home is a place of infinite possibilities there are so many new memories to create. We are here to help you create the ideal space for you to thrive. To discuss new ideas and plan your next space contact U.S. Aluminum at 407-237-3128.