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Setting the Table for a Late B.C. Summer Celebration

A late summer spread featuring appetizers and Buy BC products including Farming Karma Mocktails, Sea Cider, Field House Brewing beer, and Phillips Brewing non-alc beer.

By Danika McDowell, Buy BC Brand Ambassador
September 12, 2024

As the sun sets on another glorious B.C. summer, I found myself preparing for one final celebration on my patio. With the golden hues of late summer as my backdrop, I set the table with a spread that highlighted the best of B.C.’s local offerings—perfect for a laid-back, end-of-summer gathering.

For the appetizers, I started with bruschetta, using Taste of the Okanagan’s Bruschetta Mix and Olive Tapenade from Royal Gourmet Foods Ltd. A sprinkle of Balsamic Fleur de Sel from Salt Spring Sea Salt added just the right touch of flavour, making these bites the perfect start to the evening.

A beautiful summer appetizer display of bruschetta featuring Buy BC products: Royal Gourmet Foods Olive Tapenade, Taste of the Okanagan's Bruschetta Mix, and Salt Spring Sea Salt's Balsamic Fleur de Sel.
Bruschetta appetizer. Photo credit: Danika McDowell 

The main course was all about burgers and chicken, finished with some incredible local sauces. For the burgers, I used Salt Spring Kitchen’s Onion & Thyme Savoury Spread and Charcuterie Mustard, paired with Yellow Deer Mustard’s Dill Pickle Mustard. Topped with Eatmore Sprouts’ Alfalfa Sprouts, these burgers were bursting with flavour.

B.C. Burger. Photo credit: Danika McDowell 
Barbecued B.C. Chicken. Photo credit: Danika McDowell 

For the chicken, I opted for a tangy finish using Peach Chipotle BBQ Sauce from Taste of the Okanagan, Ol’ Yeller Barbecue Sauce from Yellow Deer Mustard, and BBQ Blaster from Fat Chili Farm. These sauces brought the chicken to life, making it a true highlight of the meal.

Of course, no summer celebration is complete without drinks. Sea Cider’s Temperance Cider, IOTA Pale Ale from Phillips Brewing, and mocktails from Farming Karma provided perfect non-alcoholic alternatives. Meanwhile, Field House Brewing’s Golden Sour added a bit of zest for those wanting something stronger.

To set the perfect mood, I also created a fun Latin playlist, filling the air with vibrant tunes that complemented the warm, golden tones of the evening. As we enjoyed the spread, it was clear that this celebration was more than just about the food—it was a true tribute to the bounty of B.C. and the joy of sharing it with loved ones.

Whether you’re planning your own end-of-summer gathering or simply want to enjoy a taste of B.C. at home, these local products are sure to make your meal unforgettable. Cheers to a wonderful season and to the local producers who make it all possible!

Featured Buy BC Members

B.C. Drinks to Offer When You Are Hosting

A delicious slate of beverages from Buy BC Members. Photo Credit: Danika McDowell

No summer celebration is complete without refreshing drinks, and B.C. offers an incredible range of locally made beverages to serve at your next gathering. Here are a few top picks to ensure your guests stay cool and refreshed:

  1. Sea Cider’s Temperance Cider (Saanichton)– For a non-alcoholic option that’s crisp and delicious, Sea Cider’s Temperance Cider is a perfect choice. Made with a blend of apples, this refreshing drink is a great alternative to traditional cider.
  2. Sea Cider’s Platinum Anniversary Blend – Celebrate in style with this special anniversary blend from Sea Cider. Its harmonious balance of flavours makes it the perfect choice for pairing with BBQ dishes or serving at any special occasion.
  3. IOTA Pale Ale from Phillips Brewing (Victoria) – This non-alcoholic pale ale is ideal for those wanting a great beer flavour without the alcohol. With its light and crisp finish, it pairs well with grilled foods and summer snacks.
  4. Field House Brewing’s Golden Sour (Abbotsford) – If you’re looking to offer something with a bit of tang, this sour beer is a great option. Its bright, zesty flavour is the perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken or burgers.
  5. Farming Karma Fruit Co. (Kelowna) – These fruity sodas and 0% cocktails are a refreshing treat, made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re serving up their Apple Soda or Mellow Mimosa, they are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

Whether you’re looking for alcoholic or non-alcoholic options, these B.C.-made beverages will ensure your guests have a delicious drink in hand throughout your gathering. Cheers to supporting local while enjoying the best B.C. has to offer!

All photos credited to Danika McDowell.
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