It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. (A.k.a., time to crank your oven to 350 and shake up some cocktails.) With a calendar’s worth of upcoming festivities – from holiday-movie marathons with the kids to Secret Santa swaps with the gang – it’s a good idea to plan for something to nibble on and sip. Here are three recipe pairings ready to please a crowd.
Dinner Party with the In-Laws
There’s nothing a little champagne can’t solve – and mixed with fresh blackberries? Delish. (Especially when garnished with festive thyme.) Once the spirits are flowing, place these decadent crab-stuffed mushrooms at the center of the table. If you haven’t already won over your in-laws, we have a feeling this combo will do the trick.
Sip: Blackberry-Thyme Cocktail
Eat: Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
Secret Santa Swap with Friends
Once you have your present all wrapped up, focus on bringing a tasty hors d’oeuvre and cocktail duo. This pomegranate-orange punch tastes just as good as it looks. And paired with baked brie topped with figs, pistachios, and orange? It’s a citrusy match made in heaven.
Sip: Pomegranate-Orange Punch
Eat: Baked Brie with Figs, Pistachios, and Orange
Holiday-Movie Marathon with the Kids
Surprise the kids with a new tradition: movies by the fire with toasty drinks and mom-approved finger foods. DIY peppermint-rimmed hot cocoa will satisfy your little one’s sweet tooth (and feel free to spike it for the 21-plus audience). Then, bake up delectable mac ’n’ cheese bites. This is one evening you’ll want to repeat year after year.
Sip: DIY Peppermint-Rimmed Latte and Festive Hot Chocolate
Eat: Baked Mac ’n’ Cheese Bites
By Claudia Williams, Staff Writer
