Eat Your Way Around the World: Celebrate the Olympics with International Appetizers, Mains, and Desserts
summer olympics 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are just around the corner, kicking off on July 26th and running through August 11th. While traveling to France to experience the games firsthand might not be in the cards for everyone, there’s a delicious way to bring the international spirit home: throw an Olympic watch party filled with global flavors!
summer olympics 2024 This article is your one-stop guide to planning a menu that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of participating countries. From Greek favorites to Korean street food, we’ve got recipes for appetizers, mains, and sweet treats that will tantalize your taste buds and fuel your cheering throughout the games.
A Culinary Journey Inspired by the Olympics
Greece: The Birthplace of the Games
Since the Olympics originated in Greece, it’s only fitting to kick things off with some Mediterranean staples. Our Mini Phyllo Feta Bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring salty feta cheese wrapped in flaky phyllo dough. Drizzled with honey and sprinkled with flaky salt, they’re the perfect bite-sized indulgence.
For a refreshing dip, try our Greek Feta Dip. Creamy whipped feta is flavored with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cucumber, and olives, making it a delicious accompaniment to pita bread or crudités.
France: A Toast to the Host Country
Embrace French flair with our Croissant Hot Dogs. This playful twist on the classic ballpark hot dog elevates the experience with a buttery, flaky croissant bun. Top it with your favorite condiments for a fun and unexpected finger food.
For a sophisticated cocktail, try the French Blonde. Featuring gin, Lillet Blanc, St-Germain liqueur, and grapefruit juice, this refreshing drink is light and citrusy, perfect for a summer soiree.
Canada: Comfort Food Classics
Poutine, Canada’s national dish, is a must-have at any Olympic watch party. Our recipe features crispy fries, savory gravy, and melty cheese curds, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.
South Korea: Street Food Sensation
Korean corn dogs have taken the world by storm, and for good reason! These deep-fried delights are coated in a batter studded with goodies like fries, puffed rice, and crushed ramen. We’ve included a recipe for these addictive treats, along with a sriracha-soy mayo dipping sauce for extra flavor.
United States: A Patriotic Feast
No Olympic watch party would be complete without a nod to the American spirit. Our American Pie is a showstopping centerpiece filled with fresh summer fruits and boasting a star-spangled crust. It’s a delicious and festive way to celebrate the games.
Beyond Borders: Exploring Other Global Delights
Team Lebanon and Syria: Kibbeh-Spiced Lamb Skewers are a flavorful appetizer or main course option. Marinated in a blend of spices and featuring orange zest for a unique twist, these kebabs are sure to impress.
Team Germany: For a hearty side dish, try our Hot German Potato Salad. Unlike the chilled version you might be familiar with, this salad is served warm with a bacon vinaigrette, adding a smoky and savory depth of flavor.
Team Nigeria: Jollof rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s considered a national treasure in Nigeria. Our recipe features a perfect balance of heat, sweetness from tomatoes and peppers, and aromatic spices, making it a standout addition to your Olympic spread.
Team China: Hosting a watch party for Team China? Get your hands on some Homemade Dumplings. These little pockets of joy are traditionally made with family and friends, and their shape is said to symbolize prosperity, wealth, and health.
Team Chile and Argentina: Empanadas are a delicious staple in both Chile and Argentina. Our recipe features a savory chicken filling with peppers and olives, but feel free to get creative and explore other fillings.
Sweet Treats for the Win
No celebration is complete without dessert! Our Mochi Donuts are a delightful fusion of Japanese and American flavors. These chewy treats combine the texture of mochi with the crispy sweetness of a donut, making them a unique and irresistible ending to your Olympic feast.
For another fun option, try our Blooming Quesadilla Ring. This playful take on the quesadilla is perfect for sharing, and the blooming presentation adds a touch of whimsy to your dessert table.
Conclusion: A World on Your Plate
With this diverse menu as your guide, you can turn your Olympic watch party into a global culinary adventure. So fire up the grill, whip up some delicious dips, and prepare to cheer on your favorite athletes while indulging in a taste of the world. After all, the Olympics are a celebration of international unity, and what better way to embrace that spirit than through the universal language of food?