Platings pairings a food blog focusing on great simple dishes and the wines that pair with them

Platings pairings a food blog focusing on great simple dishes and the wines that pair with them is a food blog that was founded on the belief that food and wine are meant to be enjoyed together. We strive to create simple yet delicious recipes that can be paired with the perfect wine to elevate any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, we want to help you feel confident in your ability to create a meal that will impress your guests.

The Basics of Food and Wine Pairing

When it comes to pairing food and wine, there are a few basic principles to keep in mind. First, consider the weight and intensity of both the food and the wine. A light-bodied wine will be overwhelmed by a heavy, rich dish, while a bold, tannic wine will overpower a delicate dish. It’s also important to consider the flavors and aromas of both the food and the wine. Look for complementary flavors, such as pairing a citrusy white wine with a seafood dish, or contrasting flavors, such as pairing a spicy red wine with a rich, creamy pasta dish.

Pairing Wine with Cheese

A cheese plate is a classic appetizer that is perfect for entertaining. When pairing wine with cheese, it’s important to consider the intensity and texture of the cheese. Lighter, milder cheeses such as goat cheese pair well with crisp white wines, while stronger, more pungent cheeses such as blue cheese pair better with full-bodied red wines. Aged cheeses such as cheddar and gouda pair well with medium-bodied red wines such as Pinot Noir.

The Best Wines for Grilling

Grilling is a popular summer pastime, and there’s nothing better than enjoying a juicy steak or a grilled vegetable skewer with a perfectly paired wine. When it comes to pairing wine with grilled meats, look for bold, tannic red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. For grilled vegetables, try a crisp, acidic white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Pairing Wine with Seafood

Seafood is a delicate and nuanced protein that requires a wine with similar characteristics. Lighter seafood dishes such as shellfish pair well with crisp, acidic white wines such as Chablis or Muscadet, while heartier fish dishes such as salmon pair well with medium-bodied white wines such as Chardonnay. For a more adventurous pairing, try pairing sushi with a sparkling wine or a dry rosé.

The Perfect Wine for Pizza Night

Pizza night is a beloved tradition for many families, and finding the perfect wine to pair with your favorite toppings can take your meal to the next level. When it comes to pizza, look for wines that have similar flavors and aromas. For a classic Margherita pizza, try a light-bodied red wine such as Chianti or Barbera. For a meat lover’s pizza, try a bold, tannic red wine such as Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Pairing Wine with Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can be a challenge to pair with wine, as the heat can overwhelm the flavors of the wine. Look for wines that have a slightly sweet or fruity character, as this can help balance the heat of the dish. Try pairing spicy Asian dishes with a slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer, or spicy Mexican dishes with a fruity red wine such as Zinfandel or Grenache.

The Best Wines for a Summer Picnic

Summer picnics are a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and indulge in some delicious food and wine. Look for wines that are refreshing and easy-to-drink, such as a crisp, acidic white wine or a light-bodied red wine. Rosé wines are also a great choice for picnics, as they are versatile and pair well with a wide range of foods. For a classic picnic pairing, try a sparkling wine such as Champagne or Prosecco.

Pairing Wine with Chocolate

Pairing wine with chocolate can be a bit tricky, as the richness of the chocolate can overpower the flavors of the wine. Look for wines that have a similar flavor profile to the chocolate, such as a full-bodied red wine with dark chocolate, or a sweet dessert wine with milk chocolate. For a unique pairing, try pairing white chocolate with a sweet and floral Moscato.

Conclusion

At Platings & Pairings, we believe that food and wine are meant to be enjoyed together, and we hope that this article has inspired you to try some new pairings at home. Whether you’re grilling outdoors, enjoying a picnic in the park, or indulging in some chocolate and wine, there’s a perfect pairing for every occasion. We’ve shared some of our favorite recipes and wine recommendations, but the most important thing is to experiment and find the pairings that work best for your palate. Happy pairing!