Picture that perfect time in the afternoon, when the sun is setting, the clouds are turning a spectacular array of pinks and oranges, and to the West you can see the colours of the night sky setting in. You have finished a hard day’s work or a day of home isolation, and now what better way to relax with your family, housemates, loved ones, pets, than to enjoy a delicious apéritif together.

Now is the perfect time to slow down and take a look at the essential things in life. Spending time with the people around you and fostering those precious relationships couldn’t be more important. Whilst we are all going through these uncertain times, enjoying the company of those around you, sharing stories and dreams, being present and thankful for human relationships can really help us to unwind, relax and stay optimistic. 

Here at Apéro we believe one of the best ways to spend time with your loved ones is by enjoying an afternoon Aperitif together. Never done this before? Don’t worry, we are here to help give you the basics so that you can create the perfect French-inspired Apéro time in your home. Let’s get started!

Apero platter

FOOD

First, you need to make something simple to snack on. It can be anything, some roasted nuts, chips, fruit or my personal favourite Aperitif, a delicious cheese platter. 

To create the perfect platter, you will need a few simple things:

  • To start, slice up a crunchy baguette and lightly toast it in the oven for a delicious fresh bread crunch and warmth (we love to accompany this with a dish made of 1/3 balsamic and 2/3 olive oil - simply dip the bread and enjoy). 
  • Next, add your cracker of choice and pick up some of your favourite cheeses. A few classic French options include comté, camembert and brie – our personal favourite is a truffled cheddar. 
  • If you’re a meat eater, add on a few different types of cured meats, like dry cured sausage, prosciutto or soft hams. 
  • Now add some other essentials: olives, quince, relish or jam and don’t forget to add something sweet, like some juicy grapes, apricots or berries.

Apero Spritz

DRINKS

Next comes the drink. An aperitif, in case you didn’t know, is an alcoholic drink served before a meal to get you in the mood for eating. Usually not too sweet and nothing too high in alcohol content. You may choose a dry white wine, a rosé, or try your hand at a classic aperitif cocktail. One of our personal favourites is the Aperol Spritz. For this one, you will need to follow the ratio of 3:2:1. Three parts Aperol, two parts prosecco (or sparkling wine) and top it up with a splash of soda water, lots of ice and a slice of fresh orange. Delicious! What’s your drink of choice? Pick something that makes you feel happy! Remember it doesn’t have to be Friday to enjoy a homemade cocktail or glass of wine with your Apéro time :)

Apero tees and knit jumpers

ATMOSPHERE 

If you have a backyard or a balcony, this is definitely the place to go! Breathing in the fresh air, whilst enjoying those last few rays of the sun is the perfect setting. You can still make the inside of your home the perfect aperitif sanctuary, however, just make sure you are near a window for that natural light and sunset views. Set up your table or picnic rug as beautifully as you can. Add a bunch of flowers, your finest plates and glasses, plants and greenery, some fairy lights or candles for when the sun finally sets, go all out. You deserve to treat yourself and the ones around you, so why not make a night of it.

Another cute idea is creating a romantic blanket fort. Yes, this may be a lot of effort, but it will be sure to bring back all the memories and nostalgia from your childhood and make for a great date night or hang time with your kids. 

Lastly, don’t forget to cosy up in your favourite Apéro tee or Apéro embroidered jumper, to top it all off! Who said we can’t look cute in the comfort of our own home…no one! :)

We hope our tips for the perfect afternoon aperitif will bring a little extra joy to your night. Let us know your go-to food, drink and setting for an aperitif and why not send us a photo of what you create. We love connecting with our Apéro fam.

Enjoy! xx