A Parisian-Inspired Afternoon: Savoring the Cosmo in Blanc
Imagine an afternoon infused with the charm and elegance of Paris, right at home. The perfect way to transport yourself to the City of Light is through a menu that captures the essence of French cuisine and the artistry of cocktail crafting. Indulge in a Parisian-inspired gathering, complete with a refreshing cocktail and an array of delectable hors d'oeuvres.
At the heart of this afternoon soiree is the Cosmo in Blanc—a sophisticated twist on the classic Cosmopolitan. This version features the smooth, clean notes of vodka, white grape juice, lime and Pavan, a luxurious French liqueur made from Muscat grapes and orange blossoms. The result is a cocktail that is as light and elegant as a Parisian afternoon, with a delicate balance of sweetness and floral undertones. The recipe will follow at the end of the post.
To complement this exquisite cocktail, we've selected a trio of hors d'oeuvres that are as delightful to the palate as they are to the eye:
-
Smoked Trout Spread: A rich and creamy blend of smoked trout, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon, this spread offers a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness of the Cosmo in Blanc. Spread it generously on crisp toasts or serve it alongside delicate crackers for a perfect bite.
-
Shaved Yellow Squash Ribbons with Fennel, Olive Oil, Lemon, and Roasted Hazelnuts: This light and refreshing salad brings a burst of color and flavor to the table. The thin ribbons of yellow squash are dressed with shaved parmesean, zesty lemon, and rich olive oil, then topped with crunchy roasted hazelnuts. It's a vibrant, textural contrast to the creamy trout spread and a wonderful match for the bright notes of the cocktail.
-
Gougères (Cheese Puffs): These airy, cheesy puffs are a quintessential French treat, combining the rich flavors of Gruyère cheese with a light, tender pastry. Warm and savory, they are the perfect finger food to enjoy alongside your Cosmo in Blanc, adding a touch of indulgence to your Parisian afternoon.
Whether you're gathering with friends or simply treating yourself to a moment of indulgence, this Parisian-inspired afternoon is sure to delight. The harmonious blend of flavors, from the elegant Cosmo in Blanc to the sophisticated hors d'oeuvres, creates an experience that is both refined and approachable—a true celebration of the art of living well.
So, raise your glass and toast to a day of elegance, flavor, and the joy of creating unforgettable memories. Cheers to your next Parisian-inspired adventure!
Cosmo En Blanc
Yields 1 cocktail
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Pinnacle® Original Vodka
- 1 oz French muscat liqueur (such as Pavan® Liqueur)
- 1 oz white cranberry juice
- ½ oz fresh squeezed lime juice
- Green grapes and sugar for garnish
Preparation:
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker, add ice and shake until chilled. Served up. Garnish with green grapes rolled in sugar and placed on a cocktail pick.
*Tip: Roll grapes in simple syrup and let them dry a bit until they are sticky before rolling in sugar.
