Serve Up a Little Envy: The Story Behind My Favorite Autumn Tradition
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October—the season of harvest and abundance!
The fields and orchards overflow with color and flavor, the air carries that unmistakable scent of autumn leaves and spice, and kitchens everywhere fill with warmth. It’s the perfect time to slow down, gather what’s fresh, and celebrate simple pleasures — like sharing good food and seasonal flavors with good company.
And that’s where the Envy Tray comes in.
What’s an Envy Tray?
You might be asking, “What on earth is an Envy Tray?”
It started as a lighthearted lockdown tradition. During those early pandemic days, when the world felt uncertain and connection was hard to come by, my friend Jeff, my sister, and I began a ritual. Every weekend we’d meet for “Happy Hour” — not in person, but over the phone. This became our weekend ritual.
Each of us would pour a drink, chat about our lives, and create little food trays to enjoy during our calls. Jeff’s trays usually came from a drive-thru — chips, fries, or a burger. My sister and I, however, took joy in crafting colorful spreads of cheese, fruit, veggies, and homemade breads making these gatherings comfort food moments which helped to ease the uncertainty of the times. One day, Jeff laughed and said, “So what’s on the Envy Tray today?”
And just like that, the name stuck, and a tradition was born!
What Goes on an Envy Tray?
Think of it as a personal charcuterie board — but more expressive, more seasonal, and more you. Just gather various seasonal ingredients and pair with some homemade chutneys and your favorite seasonal flavors.
Here are a few ideas to spark inspiration:
Cheeses: soft brie, aged cheddar, smoked gouda
Fresh picks: sliced apples, grapes, pears, roasted squash cubes
Savory bites: cured meats, olives, roasted nuts, marinated veggies
Sweet notes: chutneys, honeys, jams, or cinnamon-spiced apple butter
Homemade touches: artisan bread, pickled onions, or even a small dip or spread you’ve made yourself
Arrange it beautifully — a few flowers from the garden, a pretty platter, or special utensils can make it feel like an occasion all on its own.
Do your best to balance flavor, color and texture. It doesn’t have to be perfect or expensive, it just needs to express you and your tastes.
That’s the magic of an Envy Tray: it’s not about impressing others, but about celebrating your own taste, creativity, and gratitude.
Final Thoughts
Try it this weekend. This October, when the air turns crisp and the harvest calls, create your own Envy Tray. Pour something cozy, set the scene with autumn colors, and invite someone to share it with you — even if it’s just over the phone.
Because sometimes, joy is as simple as good conversation and a beautiful tray of food worth a little envy.
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