Happy Friday, gang – and Happy Halloween! Can you believe we’re already saying goodbye to October? The air is crisp, the trees are glowing, and golden hour seems to last a little longer this time of year. For this week’s Fridays with Oscar, we’re keeping things simple and seasonal — a Sparkling Pear Gin Cocktail and a Roasted Sweet Potato & Arugula Salad that’s light, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
🐾 Here’s What You’ll Find in Today’s Post
- 🍸 A Sparkling Pear Gin Cocktail that’s crisp and subtly sweet
- 🥗 A Roasted Sweet Potato & Arugula Salad with goat cheese and maple vinaigrette
- 💡 FAQs for both recipes with prep and pairing tips
- 🐾 A cozy behind-the-scenes peek at Oscar & Ollie
- 👖 A peek at what Beth and Kelly are wearing while preparing this week’s recipes
🍸 Sparkling Pear Gin Cocktail
Light, refreshing, and just a touch sophisticated — this cocktail combines pear nectar, gin, lemon, and sparkling water for a crisp drink that feels like autumn in a glass. Perfect for happy hour or a cozy dinner at home.
✨ Beth’s Tip: For an extra fall touch, rim your glass with cinnamon sugar or swap the sparkling water for prosecco.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sparkling Pear Gin Cocktail
Q: Can I make this without gin?
A: Yes — vodka or even non-alcoholic gin substitutes work beautifully for a lighter version.
Q: What’s the best pear juice to use?
A: Look for 100% pear nectar (like Looza or R.W. Knudsen). It’s thicker and naturally sweet, giving the drink its silky texture.
Q: Can I make this ahead for guests?
A: Absolutely. Mix everything except the sparkling water, then chill until ready to serve. Add bubbles just before pouring.
Q: How do I make it more festive for a party?
A: Add a splash of St. Germain or prosecco and garnish with a sugared pear slice.
Q: What food pairs well with this cocktail?
A: It’s lovely with light salads, soft cheeses, or roasted vegetables — especially the salad below!
Sparkling Pear Gin Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 4 oz pear nectar or pear juice
- 3 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup or honey
- Sparkling water or club soda
- Fresh pear slices & rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
- In a shaker with ice, combine pear nectar, gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake until well chilled, then strain into a coupe or rocks glass.
- Top with sparkling water and garnish with a pear slice and rosemary.
Did you make this recipe?
We’d love to see! Tag us @styleatacertainage
🥗 Roasted Sweet Potato & Arugula Salad
This salad is everything I love about fall cooking — colorful, simple, and packed with flavor. The warm roasted sweet potatoes contrast beautifully with the peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and tangy maple vinaigrette.
✨ Kelly’s Tip: Add a poached egg or leftover roasted chicken on top for an easy weeknight meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roasted Sweet Potato & Arugula Salad
Q: Can I roast the sweet potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes — roast and refrigerate up to 2 days ahead. Reheat or serve at room temperature.
Q: What can I substitute for goat cheese?
A: Feta or blue cheese works great. You can even try shaved parmesan for a nutty flavor.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Skip the cheese and add avocado or roasted chickpeas for creaminess.
Q: Can I make the dressing in advance?
A: Definitely — it keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake before serving.
Q: What wine pairs best with this salad?
A: A crisp Pinot Grigio or dry rosé complements the earthy sweetness of the roasted vegetables.
Roasted Sweet Potato & Arugula Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled & cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 4 cups arugula
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
- 2 tbsp toasted pecans or walnuts
- 2 tbsp dried cranberries optional
Maple Vinaigrette:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast 20–25 minutes, until golden and tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk vinaigrette ingredients until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, goat cheese, nuts, and cranberries.
- Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.
Did you make this recipe?
We’d love to see! Tag us @styleatacertainage
Celebrate Golden Hour!
After a busy week, Fridays are all about slowing down and savoring the simple things — a good meal, a cozy outfit, and a little time with Oscar and Ollie. Kelly and I love reaching for our favorite fall neutrals and easy layers, proof that comfort and polish can absolutely go hand in hand. Whether we’re unwinding at home or taking Oscar for an evening stroll, these effortless looks are made for relaxed Fridays and the promise of the weekend ahead.
Beth’s Golden Hour Outfit
There’s nothing like classic stripes and soft neutrals to welcome the weekend. I paired this Striped Boatneck Tee with a Cashmere Structured Cardigan for an effortlessly polished look that feels cozy but put together. The Mid-Rise Flare Crop Jean keep things modern and flattering, while the Pointy Toe Croco Ballet Flat add just the right touch of texture and shine. It’s a simple, timeless combo that’s as comfortable for a casual Friday at home as it is for running a few errands before the weekend begins.
Shop Beth’s Outfit
Kelly’s Golden Hour Outfit
I kept my look relaxed and easygoing with a favorite pairing for fall — denim and a cozy sweatshirt. The J.Crew Nipped Straight Jean in Rigid has that structured, vintage-inspired feel I love, and it balances perfectly with the Oversized Crewneck Sweatshirt in a rich autumn hue. I added the Classic Belt in Suede for a bit of shape and polish, and finished the outfit with Sam Edelman Laguna Chelsea Boot, which bring a touch of rugged practicality to this casual, off-duty look. Perfect for a crisp Friday afternoon — comfortable, classic, and ready for the weekend.
🍂 🐾 Cheers to Golden Hour
As October fades into memory, I’m reminded that sometimes the simplest things — a well-made cocktail, a beautiful salad, a cozy evening at home — are the ones that linger longest. These recipes are my little tribute to the golden hour of fall, when the light is soft, the air is cool, and life feels full of warmth and gratitude.
🐾 Oscar, Ollie, Kelly, and I wish you a beautiful end to October and the start of a cozy new season ahead! Check out our Halloween post to see our costumes and what we cooked up: Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martinis & Spooky Snacks.
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