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Monday, November 11, 2024

10 Cocktails That’ll Shake Up Any Dinner Party

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Sangria, an old fashioned, and oyster shooters. 1 of 11

A successful dinner party is comprised of three things: fun company, great food and delicious cocktails. While figuring out the invite list and the main menu is important, nothing transforms a simple get-together into a memorable occasion quite like pinpointing a festive libation. If you need some help in the drink department, serving refreshments that work for your particular theme is easier than you might think. Whether it's your first time acting as a host or you're a dinner party pro, these cocktail recipes will give your guests a reason to celebrate.

Image Credit: eHow White sangria. 2 of 11

Kick Off a White Sangria Summer

The beginning of warmer weather is the perfect excuse to dust off your deck and host an outdoor dinner party for all of your family and friends. Pair any of these three white sangria recipes with grilled meat or seafood, and everyone will be in for a flavor explosion.

Image Credit: Julia Mueller Gimlet. 3 of 11

Serve Gimlets at a Romantic Dinner for Two

Who said a dinner party can't be an event for two? If you're looking to spoil your S.O. with a home-cooked meal, a spin on a classic drink is in order. Put this cucumber-garnished gimlet next to the main dish, and you'll have everything you need for a romantic night in.

Image Credit: Trisha Sprouse Pomegranate-flavored gin and tonic. 4 of 11

Cheers to Fruity Gin and Tonics at a Housewarming Party

Congrats on the fresh digs! But now everyone's coming over for dinner to celebrate your abode, and you're not sure what to do. You'll want to make a cocktail that wows everyone as much as your fancy new place will, and a pomegranate-flavored gin and tonic is the answer. Don't forget to pick up some cured meats and cheese to nibble on, too!

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley Mai Tai. 5 of 11

Mix Hand-Crafted Mai Tais for Game Night

Inviting your neighbors over for a game night is a no-fuss way to get to know them better and establish yourself as the MVN: Most Valuable Neighbor. Serve these craft Mai Tais with Hawaiian-inspired fare just before breaking out Yahtzee or Clue, and everyone will feel like a winner.

Image Credit: Raul Zelaya Bloody Mary oyster shooters. 6 of 11

Eat Brunch for Dinner with Bloody Mary Oyster Shooters

Just because the sun has set doesn't mean that you can't serve brunch fare at your next dinner party. Try making these Bloody Mary oyster shooters to complement a seafood platter. Once you post a photo of these shooters on your Instagram, all of your followers will experience some serious FOMO.

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley French 75 cocktail. 7 of 11

Clink Classic French 75 Cocktails on New Year’s Eve

Lemon + gin + champagne = the secret to a smashing New Year's Eve dinner party. This bubbly cocktail combination, known as the French 75, will pair perfectly with decadent hors d'oeuvres and a juicy prime rib just before midnight.

Image Credit: Shaina Olmanson Hot beer cider. 8 of 11

Have Hot Cider at Your Holiday Soirée

The holiday months are prime time for dinner parties. You'll be ready for both the company and the hosting, inviting your guests in from the cold for a hot cider made from ale and spices. Try serving this drink with a hearty casserole, and your guests will feel cozy and warm.

Image Credit: Jackie Dodd Margaritas. 9 of 11

Drink Unique Margaritas at Girls’ Night

You're hosting dinner for your #squad at your house, so you know what that means — margaritas are a must. Mix up some cucumber-mint grapefruit margaritas for the fiesta, and don't forget to whip up tacos and extra guac.

Image Credit: Yvette Marquez Ginger beer. 10 of 11

Make Ginger Beer for a Barbecue

If your dinner party guests want to skip the alcohol, no worries — you can still serve a delicious beverage that makes barbecued dishes taste even better. Stir up lemon, ginger and mineral water for a non-alcoholic ginger beer that will keep your drink situation on lock. Pro tip: for the guests that do want a little booze, use the ginger beer to make a Moscow Mule.

Image Credit: Raul Zelaya Old Fashioned. 11 of 11

Put Together a Family Movie Night with Old Fashioneds

You're ready to spend some time with family by watching beloved movies, and you need a cocktail that is as classic as the chosen films' characters. After a big steak dinner, serve old fashioneds with popcorn and press play.

Image Credit: Kristan Raines

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