Photo by Jessica_Ruscello from Freerange Stock
The Olympics is not just about incredible athletic achievements; it’s also a celebration of global cultures, bringing people together through shared experiences.
As we gear up for the Paris 2024 Olympics (which are on from July 26 to August 11, 2024), if you weren’t able to go to Paris to watch the games, what better way to enjoy the events than by hosting a watch party at home with delicious homemade meals?
Here are five easy recipes that will inspire your Olympic spirit and satisfy your taste buds, all from the comfort of your home.
Chicken Empanadas – Argentina
Do you support Team Argentina or Team Chile? Prepare a batch of empanadas, the national dish of both nations. Empanadas can be made in a variety of forms and with various fillings. This version has soft chicken thighs, peppers, olives, tomato paste, and paprika to boost the flavors. If you’d rather have ground beef, you can use that instead.
Get the recipe here: Chicken Empanadas
Mac and Cheese – America
A classic comfort food in American cuisine, mac & cheese is loved by both adults and children for its creamy texture and delicious cheesiness. This classic dish consists of cooked macaroni pasta coated in a creamy cheese sauce, made with a variety of cheeses such as Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar. It makes for a hearty and delicious dinner.
Get the recipe here: Baked Mac and Cheese
Greek Chicken Chili – Greek
This Greek-inspired chili is the perfect dinner for serving a crowd at an Olympics watch party, as it is both filling and light. It is made up of tender dark meat chicken, creamy white beans, and tender vegetables. The stew is flavored with a bouquet of hearty herbs and can be easily prepared in a single pot, resulting in minimal mess and maximum flavor.
Get the recipe here: One-Pot Greek Chicken Chili
Photo by Pixabay
Quesadilla – Mexican
The quesadilla is a popular Mexican dish made with a maize tortilla toasted on a griddle, stuffed with cheese and other contents (meat, veggies), and folded over for eating. A perfect game-day recipe!
Get the recipe here: Quesadilla
Panzanella – Italy
Panzanella is an Italian salad, prepared from soaked stale bread, along with tomatoes, onions, basil, and an olive oil and vinegar dressing. This is a typical summertime Tuscan salad that is made using seasonal, fresh summer veggies.
Other ingredients, including cheese, cucumbers, and olives, can occasionally be added to Panzanella. Panzanella is thought to have been created out of necessity as a way to use undesired ingredients, such as stale bread.
The dish’s name is a combination of the terms pane, which means bread, and zanella, which means soup bowl.
Get the recipe here: Classic Panzanella Salad
Kibbeh – Lebanon/ Syria
These delectable kibbehs, a national dish in both Lebanon and Syria, can be served as a main course with rice or as an easy starter at the Olympics cocktail party. The grated onions make the kebab juicy, while the use of different spices brings a surprising flavor profile that seasoned meat to perfection.
Get the recipe here: Kibbeh Recipe
The Wrap-Up!
Hosting an Olympics watch party is an excellent way to enjoy great food while celebrating international unity and athletic prowess. These easy homemade recipes offer a diverse range of flavors and cuisines, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re savoring a Mexican quesadilla or enjoying comforting mac & cheese, your watch party will be a big hit. Enjoy the games and bon appétit!