collage of strawberries, salmon, and seasonal salad

Set the Mood with Food

We’re getting a little science-y with the blog this month. With the holidays quickly approaching, we know many people are thinking about family celebrations, corporate parties and other festive events. If you’re planning any kind of get together this holiday season, we imagine that high on your list is the food! Of course, you know that food is a vital part of any successful event, but did you know that certain foods can actually set the mood of the entire evening?

 

Here are a few foods, perfect for this time of year, that have been scientifically proven to get folks in a good mood!

 

Leafy Greens

Kale and spinach are two of our favorites! They’re loaded with magnesium, a mineral that encourages relaxation and calmness. As we like to say here at Scarborough Fare Catering, every truly great event starts with a show stopping salad, and we have lots of options! Two salads great for this time of year are – Kale Salad with Sweet Potatoes, Golden Raisins, Apples, Beets, Red Onion, Candied Nuts and Maple Vinaigrette and Field Greens with Molasses Vinaigrette, Pancetta, Parmesan, Grilled Figs and Golden Raisins.

 

Fish

Fish have high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids that help in alleviating anxiety! Not to mention, they are often low in calories and won’t leave you and your guests feeling too full. Nothing beats the beauty of a perfectly plated fish entrée. Our favorite dishes featuring fish include: Bloody Mary Marinated & Freshly Grilled Halibut, Grilled Salmon with Bourbon Glaze, and Grouper with Pecan Sauce.

 

Beans

Beans and lentils are perfect for this time of year. Think about it, you crave a big pot of chili on a cold day, right? And, you know that cozy feeling you get when eating it, that could be because beans are rich in magnesium, that miracle mineral that’s also in kale. Chili with Assorted Beans, Sour Cream, Chives & Cheddar and Southwestern Alfredo Pasta are two great dishes featuring beans that your guests will love!

 

Berries

Berries, like cranberries, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are all high in vitamin C, which helps the body cope with stress – which we all know can creep in during the holidays. Some of our favorite dishes here at Scarborough Fare Catering that feature berries are: Raspberry & Brie in Phyllo, Strawberry & Caramelized Onion Flatbread with Basil & Goat Cheese, and our Chocolate Raspberry Chambord Torte.

 

Dark Chocolate

The ultimate comfort sweet, dark chocolate is full of protein and fiber that supports a positive mood and healthy cognition! And, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy at the end of a party! End the night with a lovely assortment of desserts featuring dark chocolate to send your guests off with a smile!

 

These are just a few foods scientifically proven to put you in a good mood! If you’re planning any holiday event, contact Scarborough Fare Catering in Greenville, NC. We serve from Raleigh to the  coast and we’ll work with you to plan the perfect menu.


Article Provided By: Allison Thomas