As our second Super Bowl during the pandemic approaches, the urge to make ordinary events feel special closely follows. While to some, the Super Bowl is definitely no ordinary event, others tend to appreciate the social aspects of one of America’s favorite sporting traditions more. If you’re looking for ideas on how to make Super Bowl Sunday a fun and spirited gathering for all, you came to the right place. Here’s our guide to hosting your sporty and maybe not-so-sporty friends for the most important night in football.
THE FOOD
Most people would argue that food is the most important element of a good Super Bowl party, and they would be right. Aside from the more obvious food essentials (wings, chips, etc.) there are some food choices you can incorporate that can help elevate the entire experience. For example, by having something bright and acidic like salsa or ceviche next to something creamy and warm like spinach artichoke dip or even a fondue station, you can create a balanced and satisfying arrangement where there is something for everyone. Another staple of any Super Bowl spread is finger foods. This year, try incorporating a finger food option with something more to it, like this delicious pigs in a blanket recipe with a twist:
(Image via @pizzaree)
Miso Dijon Celery Seed Pretzel Buns
Ingredients:
1 package of hot dogs
1 pound ball of pizza dough
4 tbsp butter
baking soda
1 tbsp white miso
1 tbsp dijon
salt
pepper
celery seeds
Melt four tablespoons of butter, set half aside. Use one tablespoon’s worth of butter and add a tablespoon each of dijon and white miso, along with a tsp of black pepper to make a buttery paste.
Cut a package of good quality hot dogs in half. Then roll out a ball of pizza dough into a large thin rectangle and cut strips about one inch thick. Brush each strip with the miso butter dijon mix and wrap tightly around the hotdog pieces so that it won’t fall off, pinching on each end of the dough strips to seal it around the hotdog.
Bring a pot of water (about five cups) to a boil, and add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda.
Once it’s boiling, dip the hotdogs wrapped in dough in the water for about 30 seconds (work in batches).
Place on a baking tray and brush with the remaining butter or you could use an egg wash.
Sprinkle with celery seeds and salt and bake at 425 for `5-20 minutes until golden brown.
(From the kitchen of New York resident and hosting genius, Emma).
THE DRINKS
Aside from the drinks your guests will probably bring, it’s a good idea to have your own drink plan as well. If you’re feeling creative and drinks are usually your specialty, try taking a stab at creating two signature “rival cocktails” (or mocktails), that are inspired by each team. If that sounds like too much work, you can also just make or get two drinks that represent each team’s colors. This way all your guests can have fun with their drink of choice for the evening.
Personally, we are going for this Grapefruit Shandy to satisfy both the beer lovers and the cocktail connoisseurs. So sporty!
(Image via craftbeering.com)
THE EVENT
Now, for the actual viewing of the game there are some things to keep in mind. For instance, you may have more serious sports fans in the mixed company of those who are mostly there to speculate and gossip about the halftime show and commercials, and some who genuinely enjoy partaking in both. In this case, it’s a good idea to have a strategy for how to share the space without getting in each other’s way. Try having a designated gathering area apart from the game watching area, so people have a place to talk or escape to when the game gets stressful. Perhaps within earshot of the T.V. and also close to the kitchen/food area if you have a space that allows. Here 's a few of our recent projects that are perfect Super Bowl Sunday ready entertainment areas and “gathering areas” that are sure to impress and keep your guests happy and refreshed!
Our Cedar Crest kitchen design spills right into a great room area with a comfy couch for die-hards and a mingling spot with a view of the action.
This Leslie Court project optimizes a sunny deck, kitchen space, and a smooth transfer to the living room. Plenty of space for lounging, eating, and chatting. All in eye shot of those
famous commercials.
And of course our two OREGON HOME superstars...both formerly dark enclosed spaces magically transformed by our team into bright, open social spaces for the whole crew.
Mt. Tabor Basement (Design: Wise Design)
Knight Street
(All other photo credits @clementinehage.photography)
Feeling inspired to upgrade your home entertainment centers for optimal hosting? Contact us here or email us at info@webuildforward.com to get started on your next remodel. We’d love to discuss your ideas and how to make them happen!
Comments