What Food Goes With Prosecco? Discover the Best Pairings
Prosecco, a sparkling gem from Italy, is celebrated for its bright, fruity, and floral notes.
This bubbly delight is not only perfect for toasts but also a versatile companion to a wide array of dishes.
Understanding what to serve with Prosecco can elevate your dining experience, making every sip and bite a celebration.
Starters and Appetizers
Begin your meal with starters that complement Prosecco’s light and airy nature.
Seafood: Shrimp cocktail or calamari served with a tangy dip enhance Prosecco’s crispness.
Cheese: Opt for mild cheeses, like mozzarella or a soft brie, which pair beautifully with Prosecco’s subtle sweetness.
Bruschetta: The fresh tomatoes and basil on a slice of toasted bruschetta balance the wine’s effervescence.
Main Courses
Prosecco is more food-friendly than you might think. It can accompany a variety of main dishes.
White Meats: Chicken or pork in light, herby sauces work well with the refreshing profile of Prosecco.
Vegetarian Dishes: A vegetable risotto or a fresh green salad with a citrusy dressing complements the floral notes of the wine.
Seafood
The natural acidity and bubbles in Prosecco cut through the richness of seafood.
Sushi and Sashimi: The clean flavors of raw fish are enhanced by Prosecco’s crispness.
Lobster and Crab: These richer seafoods are balanced by the light and refreshing nature of Prosecco.
Desserts
Finish your meal on a sweet note with desserts that echo Prosecco’s sweetness.
Fruit Tarts: The acidity in Prosecco pairs delightfully with the sweetness of fruits.
Sorbet: A lemon or peach sorbet refreshed by Prosecco’s fizz makes for a perfect ending.
Snacks
Prosecco is ideal for an evening of conversation and light bites.
Popcorn: Believe it or not, the saltiness of plain popcorn goes wonderfully with the sweetness of Prosecco.
Nuts: Almonds or cashews provide a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the wine’s bubbles.
The best part about pairing food with Prosecco is the joy of discovery.
Each bottle may bring its own character, and the best pairings often come from experimentation.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet night in, or celebrating a special occasion, Prosecco can make your meal more festive and enjoyable.
So, uncork a bottle, pour a glass, and start experimenting with the pairings suggested to find your personal favorites!
| Prosecco Brand and Type | Food Pairing | Reason for Pairing | Price Range | Serving Temp | Glassware |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Marca Prosecco (DOC) | Seafood risotto, fried calamari | The crisp acidity and light bubbles cleanse the palate from the fried foods.
| $15-$20 | 38-45°F | Flute |
| Nino Franco Rustico (DOCG) | Sushi, grilled chicken salad | The fine bubbles and floral notes complement the delicate flavors of sushi.
| $18-$25 | 38-45°F | Flute or Tulip |
| Mionetto Prosecco Brut (DOC) | Bruschetta, assorted cheeses | The dryness and effervescence contrast well with the creaminess of the cheese.
| $12-$17 | 38-45°F | Flute |
| Bisol Jeio Prosecco (DOCG) | Fruit tarts, berry sorbet | The sweetness balances the tartness of the fruits, enhancing dessert flavors.
| $20-$25 | 38-45°F | Coupe or Flute |
| Andreola Dirupo Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore (DOCG) | Lobster pasta, garlic butter shrimp
| The minerality and zesty profile elevate the richness of shellfish. | $22-$30 | 38-45°F | Tulip |
Key:
- DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata): Indicates that the Prosecco is produced under specific regulations in certain Italian regions, generally high quality.
- DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita): A higher classification than DOC, with stricter regulations, ensuring a superior quality.
Serving Tips:
- Temperature: Always serve Prosecco chilled to enhance its freshness and flavors.
- Glassware: Flutes and tulips are preferred as they preserve the bubbles and aroma of the Prosecco better than wider glasses.
Would like to measure the bottle temperature? Check out this cool digital bottle bracelet!
FAQs:
1. Can Prosecco be paired with spicy foods?
Absolutely! The effervescence and slight sweetness of Prosecco can help balance the heat in spicy dishes.
Try pairing it with mildly spicy Asian cuisines like Thai or Vietnamese for a delightful contrast.
2. Is Prosecco suitable for pairing with red meat?
While Prosecco is typically paired with lighter fare, you can pair it with red meat if you choose lighter preparations.
For example, a thinly sliced roast beef or carpaccio can go well with Prosecco, especially if the dish includes a tangy sauce or dressing.
3. What type of Prosecco is best for food pairing?
Dry Prosecco, labeled as ‘Brut’, is usually the best choice for food pairing because of its versatility.
However, if you prefer something sweeter, a ‘Extra Dry’ Prosecco can be a great match for desserts or very spicy foods.
4. How should Prosecco be served?
Prosecco should be served chilled, typically around 38-45 degrees Fahrenheit (3-7 degrees Celsius).
This temperature highlights its fresh, vibrant characteristics, making it more enjoyable, especially when paired with food.
5. Can I use Prosecco in cooking?
Yes, Prosecco can be used in cooking to add a unique flavor to dishes.
It works particularly well in risottos and seafood dishes, where it can introduce an extra layer of flavor and help deglaze the pan.
6. What are the best occasions for serving Prosecco with food?
Prosecco is perfect for a wide range of occasions, from casual get-togethers and brunches to more formal celebrations like weddings and holiday parties.
Its versatility with food makes it easy to incorporate into any meal.
7. Are there any foods that should be avoided with Prosecco?
Prosecco is quite adaptable, but it’s best to avoid very heavy, creamy, or overly sweet dishes that might overwhelm its light and fresh profile.
Instead, aim for balance in your pairings to enhance both the food and the wine.
