The Easiest (and Best Last-Minute!) Holiday Cocktail Party You’ll Ever Throw
Hosting just got a lot less stressful this year.
Photographer: Thomas J. Story. Tabletop prop and food styling by Alana Stipech and Brooke Stupar.
Procrastinated and need some ideas for a holiday gathering? Look no further than these recipes that won’t have you spending hours in the kitchen and will grant you more time with your guests. These pretty, ranch-inspired holiday appetizers and spritzes come from Bodega Los Alamos and proprietor Alana Stipech. They can all be made in advance of guest arrival for a gracious and serene gathering. And the dishes aren’t just for the holidays either, some of them might make it into your regular entertaining rotation.
Quick Party Recipes
Bodega’s Sunset Spritz
This well-balanced beverage is earthy and bright—the perfect low-ABV winter cocktail.
Tinned Fish Tray
A modern twist on the classic charcuterie board or relish tray, tinned fish is served alongside a lemony garlic aioli with pickled vegetables for a briny bite and radishes for a refreshing reset. For a wine pairing, try a bold Albariño with a citrusy edge.
Whipped Ricotta, Garlic, and Zesty Herb Oil Tartine
A grilled tartine topped with creamy cheese and fresh ingredients is a sure party pleaser. Make one sweet and one savory like this to satisfy every craving.
Goat Cheese Honeycomb Tartine
This tartine, with its combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors, is an irresistible party snack.
Winter Beet Soup
A beauty to look at, this hearty vegetarian soup will brighten any winter table. Pair the soup with our wine pick from Santa Barbara County that finishes with a twist of black pepper.
Winter Panzanella
Refreshing yet comforting, a winter panzanella offers the key to low-stress holiday hosting. It’s simple, quick, and an all-around favorite, so you can easily switch out ingredients and make it what you want. Bonus: The sturdy radicchio won’t wilt, so you can prep this in advance. The salad goes well with this pinot noir that has a healthy dose of citrus zest.
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