The matchup for Super Bowl LVIII is set, but if your favorite team is out of contention, you may be more interested in what’s on the table than who’s on the field. Still, we’re all fans of the game. So let’s embrace a football state of mind as we plan our game-day party with these tips and recipes.
› Form a game plan. Preparation is key, and also part of the fun. Appetizers are often the main attraction and a no-pressure way to experiment with ingredients or recipes. Start with these recipes — and don’t forget dessert.
› Rely on your bench. Party planning is a team sport. Choose a dish or two to make, and ask others to fill in the gaps. Just huddle up beforehand to make sure there aren’t six kinds of wings and no dips or vegetables. Variety is the spice of life, and key to a successful spread.
› Play defense. Entertaining doesn’t always go as planned. There are no-shows, or the friend who was supposed to bring meatballs brought chips instead. No problem, because you’re prepared. If you have time and ambition, make and freeze empanadas to pop in the oven as needed. If not, there’s no shame in shopping the freezer aisle.
› Take advantage of timeouts. The Super Bowl isn’t just a game; it’s a daylong event. Pace yourself, and the food, accordingly. Double-team foods that can transition from brunch to late-day noshes (think avocados or deviled eggs). And break up the day with games, trivia or create-your-own themed bingo. The Super Bowl in is Las Vegas, so here’s your excuse to play poker and blackjack.