By FitMenCook™
December is here, and as we head into the holiday season, there is nothing I enjoy more than spending time with friends and family. While hosting big holiday events can be a daunting task for the chef, I’ve found that a simple wine tasting with some innovative, healthier food pairings is the best way to cozy up with those you love.
While many will pair their favorite wines with gourmet cheeses, I’ve reimagined a fall themed wine tasting. My tasting pairs a low calorie, three course meal, with the perfect wines for each course. Who doesn’t love a good meal and a smooth wine, that doesn’t break the calorie bank? Heck yea! To have a wonderful wine tasting, first we need the wine! Cupcake Lighthearted curates five, vegan-friendly and gluten free, lower calorie wines that taste amazing. I’ve paired three of these wines with an easy-to-make, low calorie recipe that warms the soul and keep your guest wanting more.
Our first wine-dish pairing is sure to start the night off right. Cupcake Lighthearted Pinot Noir, is only 80 calories, 0g of. protein and fat per 5 oz. serving, and is the perfect selection to kick off a fun, fall evening. The bursting fruit flavors will complement my Shrimp Avocado Mango Couscous Salad perfectly. This recipe is only 370 total calories, and topped with a Green Chile Lime Blend Seasoning to bring out the Pinot favor. This delicious, light starter will set the tone for the night and have you ready to start on your next course in 20 minutes or less.
Now that the mood is set and your guests are comfortable, it’s time to move to the dinner pairing of the night; and set a more savory tone. Let’s pop open a bottle of LightHearted’s vibrant Sauvignon Blanc, also only 80 calories per 5 oz. serving. It has vibrant flavors of fresh citrus, lime, and apricot for a light and smooth finish. Let’s reimagine your grandma’s homemade dinner stew, and create a seafood stew, with four types of seafood; clams, shrimp, tilapia, and halibut, prepared in 30 minutes or less. This stew will warm the palate and the soul. This mouthwatering, 410 calorie dish can be topped off with a toasted piece of sourdough bread, or served over a bed of cauliflower rice.
Our final pairing is one that will leave a lasting impression on your guest and their stomachs. Cupcake Lighthearted Chardonnay has <1g of sugar per 5 oz. serving, with subtle hints of oak and vanilla. Like with any Chardonnay, this wine is best paired with a dish that can bring out the wine’s buttery notes. Let’s reimagine cobbler like you’ve never done before! This Low Carb Blackberry Blueberry Cobbler is the perfect fall dessert that compliments the notes of vanilla in the wine, and the rich colors of fall and winter. At only 290 calories, and five minutes prep time, this recipe is delicious and easy to prepare.
And BOOM! Just like that you have mastered a delicious, three-course meal with wine pairings that are perfect for the season. Who knew eating this good could be so healthy? Until next time, keep it healthy, but NEVER boring! ~BOOM
For more calorie-conscious recipe ideas and inspiration, you can follow me on Instagram, visit fitmencook.com or download the Fit Men Cook app on iPhone and Android.
