This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #HolidayPairings #CollectiveBias The following content is intended for readers who are 21 or older.
Grab the wrapping paper, the holidays are just around the corner. Intimate gatherings, family togetherness, and a time to savor the flavors of the season, the holidays are the perfect opportunity to share time with your favorites. Whether you’re aiming to feed the entire party or simply looking for an intimate night in for two, this Estancia Wine inspired three-course pairing of sweet and savory favorites is the perfect menu.
One of the first steps to a fabulous holiday night in is to start with quality ingredients and recipe starters.
Estancia Wine pairs well with cheese, chocolate, and pasta, so this is the perfect foundation for a meal fit for a king & queen.
Might I suggest eating your courses in reverse for a bit of intrigue?
Estancia Pinot Noir Chocolate Fondue for Two
The key to this rich dessert is ingredients that add depth and sweetness to the overall chocolate dip. You will need a 1/4 cup of Estancia Pinot Noir, 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, 4 oz. dark chocolate, 4 oz. bittersweet chocolate, 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, and 3 tbsp. brewed coffee, cooled. Estancia is a super premium wine found at Walmart – the richness without the price tag.
Start by simmering your cream and coffee until slightly bubbling and warm. Pour over your chocolate and let set for 1 minute. Stir gently to combine, add your Estancia Pinot Noir, and serve warm and melted. I love incorporating Estancia wine because it is hand-crafted and grown with passion – the perfect addition to your date night in.
Serve with your favorite Pepperidge Farm Cookie Collection – perfect for dipping, scooping, and sweetening the evening. I love these Collections by Pepperidge Farm quick and easy to put together for all of your holiday entertaining needs. Plus, it makes putting together this Fondue a snap!
This Fondue for Two is the perfect start to an evening or as the finishing touch to a holiday party. Plus, you should have plenty of Estancia wine leftover to enjoy with your meal!
Fresh Caprese Pasta
This delicious fresh pasta incorporates fresh ingredients, one-pot pasta, and can be put together in less than 15 minutes. You will need 1 box of Barilla Pronto Pasta Penne style, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, 3 leaves of basil, 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan for garnish.
Cooking your one-post pasta meal has never been simpler! Start by cooking 1 box of Barilla Pronto Pasta in 3 cups water or broth. Pronto provides the quality of Barilla with the convenience of a one-pot cook and clean-up method. I love that this entire recipe can be made in one pot which means the less to clean up, the more time to enjoy with family and friends.
Toss this simple pasta with your ingredients and a little olive oil. Serve garnished with shredded Parmesan. Bon Appetit!
Finishing Touches
Whether you’re putting together a beautiful tablescape or slicing the last bits of cheese to go with your Pepperidge Farm Cracker Trio, the details, such as using a premium wine, are the most important.
For the table and serving ware, I incorporated plaids, pinecones, and wood serving trays for my cheese and cracker platter. Little vintage elements help to bring the look of the table together and provide that quality your guests will love!
Inspired by Estancia Pinor Noir, this three-course meal is a triple threat of delicious flavors, convenience in assembly, and quality ingredients.
Ready to start your party preparations? Head to Walmart and get everything you need for all of your holiday entertaining needs! Be sure to visit the Simple Entertaining Hub here to find out about a tasting or pairing event at a Walmart near you!
Find even more from your favorite brands on social media:
Barilla: Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Pepperidge Farm: Facebook | Twitter
Estancia: Facebook | Twitter
For even more simple entertaining ideas, head to the hub of #HolidayPairings. What are your favorite ways to keep holiday entertaining simple?
You wouldn’t have to twist my arm to eat the fondue with cookies first! I love everything about this three-course meal for two. This would make a great date night in on a budget, which we all need around the holidays! [client]