Are you looking for ways to spice up your summer meals? Look no further than apple cider! While it’s commonly associated with fall, this versatile drink can be paired with a variety of foods during the warmer months. In this post, we’ll provide you with some tips for pairing apple cider with food, and share five new recipes perfect for summer.

Consider the sweetness: When pairing apple cider with food, it’s essential to consider the sweetness of both the drink and the food. You don’t want your drink or your food to overpower the other. If your cider is sweet, pair it with something salty or savory to balance the flavors.

Think about acidity: Apple cider has a tangy, acidic taste, so pairing it with foods that are also acidic can enhance the flavor. For example, pairing your cider with a salad dressed with vinaigrette can bring out the citrus notes in your drink.

Don’t forget about texture: The texture of your food can also affect how it pairs with your cider. Crispy or crunchy foods can contrast nicely with the smoothness of apple cider, while softer foods can complement the drink’s texture.

Consider the alcohol content: Some apple ciders are alcoholic, and this can affect how they pair with food. Alcoholic ciders can go well with hearty, meaty dishes, while non-alcoholic ciders can be paired with lighter fare.

Consider the temperature: The temperature of your cider can also affect how it pairs with food. If your cider is cold, pair it with warm, hearty dishes. If your cider is warm, pair it with lighter, cooler foods.

Now, let’s dive into some new and refreshing apple cider food pairings perfect for the summer:

  1. Grilled Chicken with Apple Cider Glaze: This juicy grilled chicken is perfectly paired with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze. Serve it up with some grilled veggies for a complete meal. (Recipe: https://www.delish.com/uk/cooking/recipes/a31075952/grilled-chicken-apple-cider-glaze-recipe/)
  2. Caramelized Onion and Apple Cider Pork Chops: These pork chops are cooked to perfection with a delicious caramelized onion and apple cider sauce. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies for a hearty summer meal. (Recipe: https://www.jessicagavin.com/caramelized-onion-apple-cider-pork-chops/)
  3. Apple Cider Margarita: This cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic margarita, featuring apple cider and tequila. Sip on this drink while enjoying a summer evening. (Recipe: https://www.thespruceeats.com/apple-cider-margarita-recipe-760579)
  4. Apple Cider Vinegar Coleslaw: This tangy and crunchy coleslaw is the perfect side dish to any summer meal. The apple cider vinegar adds a refreshing twist to the classic recipe. (Recipe: https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/apple-cider-vinegar-coleslaw-51207460)
  5. Apple Cider Donuts: For a sweet treat, try these apple cider donuts that are perfect for summer. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds the perfect touch to these fluffy, apple-flavored donuts. (Recipe: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/apple-cider-doughnuts-recipe-2042604)