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With Summer just around the corner, lately this warm weather has been inspiring us to celebrate in style outdoors. Since we all enjoy effortless entertaining, pairing wine with an easy appetizer (that’s tasty and simple to make) is the perfect way to toast to the season of good vibes and fun outings. In collaboration with Notable Wines, today’s entertaining guide shows you how to host a “Good Vibes Only” Happy Hour, including an easy appetizer recipe that pairs perfectly with Chardonnay.
What Makes Notable Wines Different?
Since Chardonnay is one of the most popular wine varietals to serve, depending on your personal preference, Notable Wines offers two types of Chardonnay – a California Chardonnay (that has oaky and buttery notes) and an Australian Chardonnay (with crisp, fruit-forward flavors).
What sets Notable Wines apart is their distinctive wine bottles, which prominently feature the notes (like vanilla, oak, and butter) directly on the bottle, making it easy to find the wine of your choosing.
Notable is the first and only wine that highlights the flavor profiles on the front of the bottle, helping make the wine aisle a less confusing place. Wines vary in style, region, and taste, yet most labels don’t define the delightful flavor you’re about to sip. So when a wine elegantly showcases its taste prominently on the front label, it can lead you to the wine you want. All you have to do is follow the flavor notes!
Garlic Shrimp Recipe:
Since California Chardonnays are often rich and buttery, an ideal appetizer to serve with this type of wine is Garlic Shrimp. These bite-sized appetizers are not only robust in flavor and easy to serve, they’re also a healthier option for your guests, since they’re high in protein and full of nutrients.
Ingredients:
- Fresh Jumbo Shrimp (30-50 pc)
- 2 Lemons (juiced)
- 8 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 2 Tsp. Black Pepper
- 1 Tsp. Paprika
- 10 Tbs. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 Cup Notable California Chardonnay
- 2 Tbs. Fresh Parsley (chopped)
Step 1: Sauté the chopped garlic in a pan with Extra Virgin Olive Oil on medium heat.
Step 2: When the garlic begins to brown, stir in the Chardonnay, lemon juice, paprika, and black pepper.
Step 3: Continue to cook ingredients on low-to-medium heat for approximately 3 minutes. Add shrimp to the pan, and turn up the temperature to medium. Cook for 3 more minutes, and flip the shrimp in the pan.
Step 4: Immediately remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and transfer to a serving dish. On a long serving platter, elegantly lay-out fresh pieces of romaine lettuce (to act as a “bed” for the shrimp to lay on). Put the shrimp on each lettuce leaf and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve warm with chilled Chardonnay.
How To Host a “Good Vibes Only” Happy Hour
When you’re hosting a “Good Vibes Only” Happy Hour, aside from the food & wine, music is always a must-have. Whether you bring your own guitar or just turn on your favorite playlist, set the mood for fun with upbeat music that gets you into the groove.
While you’re at it, why not bring your favorite four-legged pal along with you?! Pets always lift people’s spirits and make us happier, so grab a leash and bring your furry friend down to the happy hour to add to the merriment.
If you’re planning on hosting a happy hour in a park or near the beach, it’s best to pack your belongings in an easy-to-transport picnic basket. Plus, disposable paper plates and utensils make it convenient for entertaining outdoors. A few added extras – like a cozy blanket and tasty treats – allow your guests to relax and enjoy the festivities.
To shop for Notable Wines, head to your nearby grocery store, or visit Notable online. For more food & wine pairing ideas, check out the Entertaining section on Inspirations & Celebrations.
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