A chilly evening begs for the company of a small group of friends. For this autumn supper, we warmed ourselves with a simmering pot of pasta e fagioli soup. The tantalizing aroma of the classic Italian bean soup filled the house, stirred the senses, and set the tone for the casual, relaxed get-together. To set the scene—literally—we moved the table in front of the fireplace. It created a new “dining spot” for old friends to enjoy. The table was covered with a richly textured kelim rug instead of the traditional tablecloth. The richness of the colors and material added texture and a splash of energy to the setting. Field flowers were arranged loosely in ceramic urns and set alongside candles in a silver candelabra, bathing the table in a gorgeous, inviting glow.

Once guests were seated, the soup was served family-style in a rustic wooden bowl so everyone could help themselves. It was practical and easy without sacrificing style! A fruity, green Tuscan olive oil was passed around for drizzling on top of the soup. The second course was a crisp salad of seasonal greens, dressed in a simple vinaigrette, and topped with piping-hot onions and flavorful cherry tomatoes caramelized in balsamic vinegar. A rich Pinot Noir with nuances of blackberry and cherry worked well with the robust flavors of both courses.

A dinner scene like this one calls for a warm dessert straight from the oven. A homemade yet surprisingly easy apple pie with a choice of whipped cream, crème fraîche, ice cream, or frozen yogurt was offered. Since it’s all about timing, the pie was placed in the oven when we first sat down for the soup and it finished baking just in time.

After dinner, with feet propped up on the hearth, coffee and Cognac in hand, we agreed to have another intimate get together like this one before the end of the season. Now all we need to do is coordinate impossible schedules!