HONOLULU (KHON) — Throwing an unforgettable party for the Super Bowl is a rite of passage for many. You want to serve the traditional favorites, but you don’t want to be cliche or boring.
This is why KHON2.com decided to investigate some unique and interesting food and drink options you can serve to your guests that will make your party for the Big Game truly unforgettable.
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So, for an unforgettable culinary experience, consider these unique food ideas that blend creativity with flavor. Keep in mind that these suggestions go beyond traditional party fare and offers your guests a memorable dining adventure.
Savory cupcake assortment
This is a truly fun idea. You can transform classic savory dishes into cupcake forms. Think mini meatloaf cupcakes topped with mashed potato icing; lasagna cupcakes with layers of pasta, ricotta and meat sauce; or mac ‘n’ cheese cupcakes with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
It’s a great way to eat food with your hands that would normally require plastic forks and paper plates.
DIY sushi making station
Who doesn’t love fresh and delicious sushi. With this idea, you can set up a sushi-making station with sheets of nori sheets, sushi rice and a variety of your favorite fillings such as fresh and pickled vegetables, cream cheese, fresh caught fish, cooked shrimp, sweet egg, unagi, etc… Include bamboo mats for rolling or let guests create mini sushi tacos.
Gourmet popcorn bar
Offer freshly popped popcorn with an array of seasonings and toppings. You can offer truffle salt, grated Parmesan, cinnamon sugar, caramel sauce. Add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit and nuts can elevate the experience. You can click here for more fun ideas.
Mini global street food market
Food trucks are so much fun and offer some of the best foods we can experience. This option is an homage to food trucks and allows you to feature small servings of street food from around the world. Whatever you want to serve, this idea allows guests to take a culinary tour without leaving the party.
Edible co*cktail Glasses
Serve co*cktails or mocktails in edible glasses made from sugar, chocolate or flavored ice. Not only does this add a unique twist to drinks, but these fanciful and fun edible food cups also eliminate the need for dishwashing!
Interactive molecular gastronomy station
Introduce a bit of science into your cooking with molecular gastronomy kits. Create spheres that burst in the mouth with flavor, edible co*cktails or instant ice cream using liquid nitrogen. It’s both entertainment and a culinary delight all in a single experience.
Click here to learn how to make molecular gastronomy at home. Click here for some recipe ideas.
Poi bar
Did you know that there around 200 varieties of kalo, a.k.a. taro? Did you know that poi comes in a multitude of colors? Purple, blue, pink, orange, green, on and on the colors go. You can eat it tangy as it was made traditionally or milder as some like it today. And poi is making a big splash at high end eateries and restaurants around the world.
So, reach out to a friend who raises kalo and makes poi or find a local shop that sells it and set a poi bar that will surely entice your guests to experience some truly amazing food.
Herb garden salad bar
It’s the Year of the Dragon and lots of zodiac signs need to ensure that they work on having a healthier diet. So, to provide some healthy options at your party, you can set up a salad bar where guests can snip their own fresh herbs from potted plants to add to their salads. Offer a variety of greens, toppings and dressings for a fresh, interactive experience.
Artisanal toast bar
For the last 10-12 years, toast has moved from being a side option at breakfast to being the star of a delicious meal. You can offer a selection of artisanal breads with an array of gourmet toppings. Include things like avocado mash, heirloom tomatoes, smoked salmon, nut butters and spreads, exotic jams, cheeses, dips sprouts, anything really.
This simple concept can be elevated with high-quality ingredients and unique combinations.
Flavor-infused ice creams and sorbets
Homemade or artisan ice creams and sorbets in unexpected flavors like lavender honey, basil lime, blueberry basil, strawberry basil, cherry fennel, blueberry lavender, rose, spicy chocolate, etc…. Serve alongside traditional toppings or unique options like edible flowers, gold leaf, balsamic reduction, fruit sauces, local honey, etc….
For a Big Game party that stands out, you can offer some uniquely creative and “out of the box” food ideas that blend traditional flavors with unexpected twists.
Mini football-shaped zucchini pizzas
Carve small zucchinis into football shapes, top with pizza sauce, cheese and pepperoni, then bake until tender. Use strips of cheese or sour cream to add lacing details.
Pigskin potato skins
Make potato skins but shape them like footballs and fill with traditional toppings like cheese, bacon and sour cream. Add chives to create the appearance of laces.
Touchdown taco or sushi cones
Use large tortillas or sheets of nori to make cones. Fill them with taco or sushi ingredients and stand them up in a custom holder for easy eating. It’s a fun twist on the taco or sushi bar concept.
Bacon-wrapped jalapeño footballs
Stuff jalapeños with cream cheese and spices, wrap them in bacon and bake. Before serving, add thin slices of white cheese to mimic football laces.
End zone endive boats
Fill endive leaves with creative combinations like buffalo chicken salad, Mediterranean chickpea salad, mac salad or crab salad. They’re light, crunchy and easy to eat with one hand.
Quarterback queso fun dip
A molten cheese dip with Portuguese sausage or chorizo, roasted poblano peppers and tequila. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping. It’s a hearty, spicy option that’s a step up from traditional queso.
Field goal fruit and cheese platter
Arrange a fruit and cheese platter to look like a football field, using green grapes or apple slices for the field, cheese strips for the lines and a football-shaped piece of cheese as the centerpiece.
Hail Mary Bloody Mary bar
Set up a DIY Bloody Mary bar with various hot sauces, seasonings, vegetables and even shrimp or bacon. Guests can create their ultimate drink to enjoy during the game. You can infuse your vodkas with roasted red peppers or jalapenos to make the drinks extraordinary.
Blitz brownie bites
Make brownies in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats. Top each with a swirl of frosting in team colors and a mini football decoration.
First down fondue
Offer a cheese fondue with breads, sausages and vegetables for dipping, alongside a chocolate fondue with fruits and marshmallows. It’s a communal eating experience that encourages interaction.
Sack-the-quarterback sack lunches
This is a great idea for keiki who will be at your party. Prepare individual “sack” lunches with gourmet sandwiches, chips and a small treat. These can be customized for dietary preferences and make cleanup a breeze.
Playbook pretzel bites
Bake pretzel bites and arrange them on a platter in the shape of football play diagrams. Serve with mustard and cheese dip for a fun and interactive snack.
For some more traditional ideas, consider these fun and easy options.
Appetizers
- Wings: Buffalo, BBQ, teriyaki, honey butter or honey-glazed. Wings are a staple for any Super Bowl party.
- Dips: Guacamole, salsa, queso and hummus served with chips or vegetable sticks.
- Meatballs: Served in a variety of sauces, such as marinara, Swedish or teriyaki.
- Stuffed mushrooms: Filled with cheese, herbs, sausage or crabmeat.
Main dishes
- Sliders: Mini burgers, kalua pork or chicken sliders are easy to eat and make.
- Pizza: Homemade or ordered from a pizzeria, with a range of toppings to cater to different preferences.
- Chili: Beef, chicken or vegetarian chili, perfect for keeping warm and filling up.
- Tacos/burrito bar: A DIY taco or burrito bar with various fillings and toppings.
Snacks and sides
- Nachos: Fully loaded with cheese, jalapeños, beans, sour cream, and guacamole.
- Fries and tater tots: Offer a variety of seasonings or dipping sauces.
- Cheese and charcuterie board: A selection of cheeses, meats, nuts and fruits.
- Veggie platter: With a range of dipping sauces for a healthier option.
Desserts
- Brownies and cookies: Easy to make and can be decorated in team colors.
- Cupcakes: Decorated with icing in the colors of the teams that are playing.
- Ice cream sundae bar: With toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips and cherries.
- Fruit skewers: A fresh and light option, possibly dipped in chocolate.
Beverages
- Craft beers and ciders: Offer a selection of local and favorite brands.
- Soda and sparkling waters: Include a variety of flavors to cater to everyone.
- co*cktails and mocktails: Create a signature drink for the event or have a mix-your-own station with different spirits and mixers.
- Coffee and tea: For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages or want something warm.
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So, there are lots and lots of options for you to throw the best watch party for the Super Bowl. Regardless of which team wins, you have the opportunity to make this party truly memorable.
