Let's be real, we all know that wine and cheese is the classic pairing. But sometimes you want to mix it up, ya know? Here are 10 of the best snacks to serve with your next bottle of red wine.
1. Dark chocolate - The tannins in red wine can make chocolate taste bitter, but dark chocolate has a higher cocoa content which balances out the sweetness. Plus, it's a rich pairing that'll leave you feeling satisfied.
2. Roasted nuts - roasted almonds, cashews, pistachios... take your pick! Nuts are the perfect salty snack to have on hand when you're craving something savory.
3. Hummus - this one's for my vegan friends out there! Hummus is a great alternative to dairy-based dips like ranch or French onion. Plus, it's packed with protein and fiber, so it'll fill you up without weighing you down.
4. Dried fruit - sweet and chewy, dried fruit is the perfect snack to pair with a big glass of red wine. Just make sure to stay away from sugary fruits like raisins or candied fruit; they'll make your wine taste bitter.
5. Prosciutto-wrapped dates - dates are inherently sweet, so they're the perfect foil for a dryer red wine. And wrapping them in prosciutto adds a nice savory element that takes this snack to the next level.
6. Olive tapenade - olives are another salty snack that pairs well with red wine. If you're feeling fancy, whip up a quick olive tapenade by blending olives, olive oil, garlic, and herbs in a food processor.
7. Sausage rolls - who doesn't love a good sausage roll? Pairing one with red wine is the perfect way to indulge in comfort food without overindulging.
8. Parmesan crisps - these bite-sized snacks pack a big flavor punch thanks to their cheesy goodness. They're also super easy to make; simply bake Parmesan cheese in the oven until it's golden brown and crispy.
9. Spicy popcorn - this snack is for those who like things on the spicier side! Mix popcorn with chili powder, cayenne pepper, and sea salt for a zesty treat that'll pair perfectly with your favorite bottle of red vino.
10. Charcuterie Board - last but not least, we have the classic charcuterie board! A charcuterie board is basically an appetizer plate consisting of cured meats, cheeses, breads, fruits, and vegetables. It's the perfect way to try a little bit of everything and find new flavor combinations that you love.
So there you have it! 10 of the best snacks to serve with your next bottle of red wine. Whether you're looking for something sweet or savory (or both!), there's sure to be a snack on this list that'll hit the spot. Bon appetit!