The casual apéro dînatoire takes a page from cocktail hour. But there are still rules.
Recipes for a casual French dinner party, clockwise from left: Roasted Red Pepper and Hazelnut Dip; Garlic-Herb Palmiers; Mushroom Pâté; and Savory Ham Cake With Cheese and Herbs. By Ann Mah May 13 at 12:00 PM It is a truth universally acknowledged that meals in France are long. Dinner parties usually follow an elaborate ritual of four courses with paired wines, multiple place settings, and pre- and postprandial drinks.
While the main course of the meal is also bite-size, it’s more substantial — and usually served hot. “I like to serve one or two hot bites — meatballs, quiche or a galette,” says Asselin. Often, a homemade savory cake will appear — a quick bread studded with bits of cheese and cured meat. These generous loaves are popular with French home cooks, who call them cakes salés. “You can make a savory cake a day or two in advance,” she suggests. “They reheat beautifully.
Whatever you’re pouring, remember that the ultimate goal is ease and simplicity: “One of the best things about apéro dînatoire is that, done right, they should be easy,” says Peppler. “Flexibility and a relaxed, open mind are key factors.” The apéro dînatoire isn’t just a party — it’s a way of life.an easy apéro dînatoire Keep staples on hand.
Add condiments to make it fancy. “Charcuterie platters are extra impressive when you round them out with condiments like cornichons and a jar of mustard,” says Peppler. For oeufs mayonnaise on the fly, she suggests seasoning store-bought mayo with lemon juice, black pepper and paprika. Scoop a dollop on hard-cooked egg halves.
Do end with dessert — but keep it simple. “If don’t have time to make dessert, I’ll take a big bar of dark chocolate and break it into pieces,” says Asselin. “People help themselves.” Fresh fruit is another good choice. Steps Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Use some butter to grease a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan. Line the bottom and two longer sides of the pan with a sling of parchment paper.
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