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Monroe Arts Center has a long-standing custom of pairing elegant cuisine and fine wines along with lively entertainment at their signature fundraiser – A Taste of Spring.  This year’s event on May 4 will be no exception, when Chef Sarah Jarret brings her culinary talents to the table for a savory evening featuring an eclectic five-course dinner.

Espanole, aioli, gremolata.  Foodies will relish the concept of cooking terms coming to life in the stocks, sauces, and condiments that are part of the menu.

Chiffonade, citrus-brined, cheese-stuffed.  Culinary artists will appreciate the techniques and classic presentation.

Appetizer through dessert.  All guests will leave the table thoroughly satisfied with the fusion of upscale, sumptuous fare and a perfectly paired wine to accompany each course.

Chef Sarah’s personal roots in the kitchen, however, are more of a fusion of family and favorites.  Her heart lies with the good, basic fare that her mother enjoyed preparing.  Raised in Libertyville, Illinois, as one of eight children in the household, she grew up on standards like Swedish meatballs, ham, lasagna, and potato salad.

“My mother was a wonderful cook – she fed us, and fed us well,” says Jarrett, who also points to her mother’s talents as an artist as a source of personal inspiration for being part of the Taste of Spring event to benefit Monroe Arts Center.  A number of years ago as a stay-at-home mom, Jarrett carried on the family traditions in the kitchen with the next generation.  In fact, two of her children have gone on to become pastry chefs.

Even if you’re not part of the Jarrett Family, you’ve likely enjoyed Jarrett’s cooking.  She currently leads the kitchen staff at Laughing Trout, previously having served as chef at both Monroe Country Club and the Monroe Clinic Hospital.

Chef Sarah is passionate about cooking – with personal tastes ranging from Southwest to sushi.  She considers the rotating daily specials on the menu at Laughing Trout to be an added perk in her job, allowing the opportunity for offering new dishes as well as offering a fresh spin on familiar favorites.  Jarrett is very pleased to be showcasing the staff of Laughing Trout, with four members of the kitchen crew taking part in presenting the dinner for A Taste of Spring.

“We have such a great crew – they really care about food quality,” said Jarret.  “Each of the them will take ownership of a course; they’ll be there to prepare, plate and serve.”

In addition to fine dining, the event includes a live auction with offerings ranging from fine art to metal works and themed dinners; and a silent auction with one-of-a-kind gifts, artisan creations, and gift certificates.  New this year is a “Six by Six” exhibit and sale, featuring the works of local artists portraying their visions of “local goodness” in various mediums including pottery, glass, woodworking, and watercolor.

Monroe Arts Center invites you to support their amazing entertainment offerings and engaging exhibits by attending A Taste of Spring at Ludlow Mansion on May 4, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Individual seating is $75 ($45 tax deductible) and tables of eight are $500 ($260 tax deductible).  For reservations (by April 25) call (608) 325-5700 or 888-596-1249.