When the evenings turn balmy and the leaves become shades from golden to red, you know it's time for the apple harvest. Even if family life remains hectic, life seems to take a slower pace, and inviting friends for dinner seems the natural thing to do.

Feature fall's harvest at your next dinner party with this month's Autumn Orchard Supper. The Special Cider Salad is an unforgettable combination of crisp apples, mixed greens, spiced pecans, blue cheese and cider vinaigrette. Apples also are featured in the entrée of Chicken Normandy, a simple yet elegant sauté.

The chicken pairs well with cooked egg noodles or white rice, but a side of sweet and savory Noodle Kugel is my preferred accompaniment. Blistered Brussels Sprouts sautéed with shallots, garlic and prosciutto will add a flavor punch to the plate.

Recipes:

	Marinated Olives and Cheese Garlicky, tangy and frankly addictive, my recipe for Marinated Olives and Cheese is a flavorful way to welcome unexpected guests. Served in small bowls with toothpicks, the bites of olive and cheese are a terrific accompaniment to cocktails and pair especially well with a dry red wine.
	Blistered Brussels Sprouts When I was growing up, I turned my nose up to Brussels sprouts. Little did I know that this strong smelling member of the cabbage family was a little gem when prepared properly.
	Chicken Normandy Apples are abundant year round but are at their peak in the autumn. Instead of baking them up into a pie for my Autumn Orchard Supper menu, I’m using them in a delicious entrée – Chicken Normandy.
	Midnight Cakelettes There’s nothing like a rich, decadent dark chocolate dessert at the close of a meal. Usually, just a few bites are all you need to satisfy your cravings. Restaurants have answered the chocolate call with little chocolate cakes, often called "molten chocolate cake" or "chocolate lava cakes."
	Noodle Kugel Noodle Kugel is a dish traditionally served for Jewish holidays, but this sweet and savory side dish is so delicious, I like to serve it as a year-round accompaniment to braised pork or my Chicken Normandy sauté.