How to organize an aperitif at home

From seasoned pasta to vegetable salads. Crostini and canapés. And for drinks, try some unique cocktails.

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How to organize an aperitif at home 2
The ritual of aperitivo is one of those little things we've missed most during the long pandemic. And not just outdoors, on the streets, in bars, in places where we can meet in the open air. But also at home. And now that some restrictions are starting to ease, we can finally resume the good habit of planning some aperitif with friends or a good brunch in the warmth of our home walls.
The first thing to keep in mind is not to get confused: an aperitif is not lunch or dinner. It must have its simplicity and its sobriety, from the table to the food and drinks we offer, and it should offer the opportunity to spend time together in a light-hearted and convivial atmosphere. Very informal and, above all, in a cheerful atmosphere. Formalities include drinks and business aperitifs, which, however, do not fall into the category we're examining here.

READ ALSO: How to organize a children's party at home, without spending too much

HOW TO ORGANIZE A HAPPY HOUR AT HOME

To begin, you need to decide on the number of people to invite: much depends on the space you have available, but in general, try not to exceed 10 guests. For the buffet, choose simple foods and dishes that are not only easy to prepare but also easy to eat standing up, such as:

  • Various types of pasta seasoned with simple sauces.
  • Cous cous with courgettes and cherry tomatoes.
  • Savory pies stuffed with vegetables and mozzarella.
  • Omelettes cooked in the oven.
  • Insalate of mixed vegetables.
  • Macedonia of fruit.
  • Crostini to be enjoyed with tasty sauces do it yourself such as a tasty one mayonnaise prepared at home.
  • As for drinks, why not try welcoming your friends with a cocktail prepared using flowers or fruits grown in your garden?

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HOW TO SET UP AN APERITIF BUFFET

The setting in which you choose to set up your aperitif buffet is also important : remember to take care of the look of the table where the buffet will be served. Decorate it with flowers or create an original centerpiece , and don't forget some background music.

HOW SET THE TABLE FOR THEAPERETIF

Aside from the tablecloth (cheerful and colorful), arrange cutlery, glasses, and napkins in a clearly designated and organized space. Ideally, you should have two tables: one for food and one for other items. For each guest, provide two glasses: one for water and one for wine or other beverages. Drinks, including water, should be served in carafes. Plastic and paper plates are strictly prohibited, and in any case, don't overdo the decorations.

WHAT TO OFFER TO DRINK FOR APERETIF

Choose what to offer to drink for appetizer Depending on the season, it's important to have both white and red wine. If you have bubbles, offer them as soon as the first guest arrives. The five most popular cocktails are:
  • Americano. Made with bitters, vermouth, and soda water. A very Italian mix, despite its name, made with the addition of a slice of lemon or orange.
  • Spritz. Made with Aperol and Prosecco, it's a drink enjoyed by all ages.
  • Campari Spritz. The Campari variant.
  • Negroni. With bitters, vermouth, and gin. A classic born in the 1920s in Florence, in property of Count Negroni. Hence his first name.
  • Gin and Tonic. With gin and tonic water. Best suited to the end of the evening, but also widely used. including appetizerA classic to improve your evening mood.

SIMPLE COCKTAILS AND LIQUORS TO PREPARE AT HOME:

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