Last week I shared with you a few tips for simplifying your holiday party prep and today I'm going to share more ideas for holiday entertaining when it comes to what to serve. My key to any gathering (big or small) is to serve something delicious and pour a great glass of wine. Keeping it simple is key. Let's start with the food.
You really cannot go wrong with a charcuterie and cheese pate. With this spread, there was something that appealed to everyone. Cured and dried meats, two different cheeses, smoked almonds, a variety of olives and even chocolate.
I think chocolate might be the one thing missing off so many platters like this but adding just a nibble of dark chocolate makes all the difference in my world. (Remember those individual cheese plates I shared a while back? Yep, chocolate there too.)
The other important element is the wine. Charcuterie and cheese plates pair very nicely with Beaujolais Nouveau (one of my staples this time of year). This Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau is fruity and easy-to-drink which appeals to both red and white wine lovers, making it just right for holiday celebrations.
I placed a few bottles and glasses on a bar cart in the main room we were all gathering (uncork them as needed). The wine was always on hand and I didn't have to play bartender. Guests were happy to pour themselves a glass.
Hostess Tip: Unlike most red wines, you'll want to put a Beaujolais Nouveau bottle in the fridge for 15 minutes before drinking. A slight chill will bring out the fresh flavors.
The bottle also happens to be so beautiful that it adds a real festive flair to your party set up. They also make great bottles to bring as hostess gifts this time of year.
Are you entertaining this holiday season? What will you be serving and pouring?
This post was done in collaboration with Georges Duboeuf and One2One Network, all opinions are my own. Cheers.
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