A Perfect Pair: What to Eat with Rosé

Glass of rose wine in the backlight

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Glass of rose wine in the backlight

Photo by: Bernd Schmidt

Bernd Schmidt

Glass of rose wine in the backlight

If picturing yourself drinking a glass of chilled rosé wine conjures up images of hot summer nights spent outdoors, eating and chatting with friends, there’s a good reason: Rosé was made for warm-weather drinking. Factor in its food-friendly, easy-to-drink nature, along with a generally affordable price tag, and it’s no surprise that rosé is a popular party choice. So when choosing foods to serve with your rosé, it should come as no surprise that spring and summer party fare is just the ticket.

While some food-friendly rosés are beefy enough to stand up to regular burgers, an even more perfect pairing for them is the aptly named Perfect Turkey Burger from Food Network Magazine, topped with ripe avocado and Manchego cheese.

Cheeses and cured meats also play nicely with rosé. For an elegant appetizer, try a chilled glass alongside bruschetta, like this version that’s topped with prosciutto, ricotta and arugula. If you’re after a main dish, try creamy Pasta with Prosciutto and Asparagus.

Hearty picnic salads, like Ina Garten’s Tomato-Feta Pasta Salad are lovely with rosé wine. Guy Fieri’s Roasted Beet Salad with Chickpeas and Red Onion (pictured above) is also a nice choice, as is a BLT Pasta Salad. Bring one of these cold, zesty salads along with a bottle of pink wine to your next potluck party and you’re sure to be invited back.

Pairing wine with spicy foods can be tricky, but remove some of the guesswork by choosing a bottle of rosé. Many varieties can stand up to bold, spicy food (and even barbecue!) while still retaining their light and refreshing character. Here’s a slam-dunk duo: a robust rosé served with spicy Shrimp-Avocado Tostadas.

Looking at a large pan with paella that is cooking on the grill.

Looking at a large pan with paella that is cooking on the grill.

Looking at a large pan with paella that is cooking on the grill.

And for a wow-worthy outdoor meal and wine pairing, try Bobby’s Grilled Paella alongside rosé or even a sparkling rosé. Gather some friends around the fire, crack open a nice cold bottle and hope the night (and the warm weather) never ends!

And if you forgot to chill your rosé, have no fear! Here’s a quick, foolproof way to get it cold, FAST!

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