Super Bowl Parties: The Menu

We’re continuing on with our Super Bowl week – if you’re just joining us, here’s the lowdown:

• Football-inspired theme decor from around the web was the focus of Monday’s post: Football Geek
• On Tuesday I showed you the Make Merry! version of a chic, South Beach-inspired game day party: Miami Chic
• Yesterday I gave directions on making super easy (and cute!) Colts and Saints Cocktail flags

Now, on to the food and drink! Our Super Bowl party menu is a little bit upscale, a little bit laid-back, and inspired by both football and our Miami Chic theme.

Clockwise, from top left:

Baked Mini Corn Dogs
The homemade rolled dough and skewers add a bit of sophistication to an old favorite. (from Food Network)

Dungeness Crab Guacamole with Endive
Adding crab and serving in endive cups is another upscale take on a game day classic. (from CHOW)

Meatballs over Creamy Polenta
I’d go with a make-ahead, less-fuss main dish like these hearty meatballs. The polenta makes it a little more special. (from Food Network)

Mojitos
The classic Cuban drink goes perfectly with our theme and is always a crowd pleaser.

Cuban Sandwiches
Assemble the sandwiches and set them out with a sandwich press for your guests to help themselves as the day goes on. Any sandwich that grills well would work here, but I’m partial to a perfectly pressed Cuban; this recipe is authentic, especially if you make your own roast pork. (from Food Network)

{image from Mainebrew.com}

I’d also love to throw in a beer and cheese pairing station – it’s easy, trendy, goes with the theme (beer? football? of course!) and gives your less-sports-minded guests something fun to do. Here’s some inspiration: The Nibble has a great pairing chart, and Artisanal has a selection of cheese you can buy for each type of beer.

… and if you’re wondering where the sweets are, I’ve got a fun surprise coming up later today.