Ever wish you could put together perfect food and drink combos to wow your guests and get your tastebuds dancing? You’re not the only one. It’s that time of year when many of us start coming out of our shells and planning meetups with our nearest and dearest, so that’s why we’re going to start pairing up. Avoid those awkward social own goals that come from picking the wrong wine to go with your fish dish — and anything else you’re stressing out about — and glide through the evening in style.
Let’s take a closer look at the perfect combos so that you can plate up and pour a glass without a worry in the world!
Beer and burgers
We’ll start simple with a classic combo that no one should be shy about serving up on a summer afternoon. If you want to go for sliders you can, and if you prefer gourmet burgers, you can do that too. Have half a dozen different bottled beers in the cooler and your guests will be able to pick their tipple while also adding whichever sauces they want to their burgers. Throw in a sumptuous brioche bun and you really will have everything covered. Now it’s time we got a little more subtle and refined with our pairings.
Cheese and port
Nothing sets the tone for an elegant and refined evening like a roaring fire crackling in the background that is paired with a cheeseboard in the foreground. Add in a couple of varieties of classy port and you will be able to set the tone in a whole new way. Picking a dozen or so cheeses that cover every part of the taste range will really help tie the evening together. And don’t forget all those little extras that bring a cheeseboard to life. Olives, crackers, and a selection of biscuits will all go down well with your guests as they take their seats in the living room for the evening.
Martini and oysters
Whether you want it shaken or stirred, a martini is a classic drink that will work wonders when served alongside freshly prepared oysters. This delicate pairing is all about enjoy quality rather than quantity as you entertain your guests by being the host who truly has thought of everything. Ice and plenty of it will be the key to your success here and it’s something that is easy to get right if you give yourself a day or so to prepare. The colder the martini and the more elaborately you can present your oysters, the better the table will look when you welcome everyone through the door.
Champagne and caviar
A gentle fizz that has been refined with the seasons combines effortlessly with luxury caviar that has a salty yet elegant taste. You’re going to want to get out your best glasses so that nothing is overlooked, all while your guests reach for the assortment of luxury crackers and biscuits you have served alongside the caviar. Focusing on the lighting and some gentle background music will really help too as it will allow you to set the tone for an evening that is all about enjoying the finer things in life.
Margarita and tacos
Head over to your continental table for the evening and present your guests with a taste they will never forget. Your choice of drink is the perfect partner for a make-your-own taco spread that allows everyone to try something new and vary things up. It’s all about freshness and simplicity here, so don’t feel like you need to be too luxurious or exotic if you’re not in the mood. Think seasonal ingredients, plenty of seasoning, and a variety of combinations that will expand the options. Invite your guests to tuck in and have fun with it and you’ll love the way the casual vibes continue long after the food has been polished off.
White wine and fish
A classic that we simply wouldn’t dare to leave off our list! White wine has that crisp, timeless profile that perfectly balances the nuanced mouthfeel of elegantly cooked fish. Let the core ingredients speak for themselves rather than resort to overpowering sauces and we guarantee you will be pleasantly surprised by what you create. Keep your eye on the fish from the moment you pop it in the pan, and you will be able to judge the finish exactly how you need to. Once you’re ready, plate up and serve so it doesn’t rest too long.
Coffee and cake
Last but by no means least, we bring you a combo that works wonders at all times of the day. If you’re having a casual catchup with a couple of friends, is there ever anything more relaxing and inviting than this? We don’t think so, that’s why we invite you to give it a try at your leisure. Loose leaf tea, angel cake, and a freshly baked sponge are all you need to tie together the perfect couple of hours when you want everything to slot into place.
Final thoughts
No matter which direction you decide to take things in, make it social! You want to be able to get the most out of the occasion, and that means working with your partner to add those all-important finishing touches.
One of the great things about making cooking a social activity is that you and your partner each get to play your part while also feeling like you can relax. Having a daily activity pencilled in where you break the hold on your phones really does make all the difference.
Amazon shopping, YouTube Shorts, and the latest online casino games can take a backseat while you enjoy quality time together.
The result is a happy home, a delighted table of guests, and plates and glasses that won’t stay full for long. Now it’s up to you to set the tone for an evening unlike any other. Enjoy!
