Chef Bill Allen preparing a memorable meal. Photo by Bill Nixon.
Camille Esterman
Did you know that SaddleBrooke Ranch resident Bill Allen is a retired professional chef? He recently showcased his talents by using his extensive outdoor kitchen to prepare a gourmet dinner for a private party at the Ranch.
Billed as a Sangria Soirée, the event was hosted by Carmen and Bill Allen and Debbie and Bill Nixon. While the hosts prepared the meal, Amanda Kaminski helped organize the event, set the stage, and greeted guests. Set outdoors on a starlit night, the mood of the dinner party was enhanced with hurricane candles on the tables.
The menu included several dishes prepared by chef Bill: bacon-wrapped dates, grilled beef tenderloin with peppercorn brandy sauce (hot off the grill), Spanish paella, roasted potatoes, medley of fresh vegetables, dinner rolls with Irish butter, chocolate mousse, and key lime tarts.
The Nixon’s completed the menu by providing an artfully arranged cheese board with grapes and french bread, praline pecans, caesar salad, and sangria. Every mouth-watering dish was prepared from scratch, including the sangria.
What amazing, talented people live in our community!