Watching soccer matches is an exhilarating experience, and nothing complements the excitement like indulging in the best foods for watching Soccer matches. Whether you’re hosting a viewing party or enjoying the game solo, having the right snacks on hand can enhance the fun. This article will explore traditional game day snacks and international flavors that are perfect for any soccer match.
Traditional Game Day Snacks
Chips and Salsa
Chips and salsa are a classic game day snack that never goes out of style. The crunch of the chips paired with the tangy and spicy flavors of the salsa creates an irresistible combination.
Ingredients:
- Tortilla chips (or a mix of pita chips, veggie chips)
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapenos, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: mango, black beans, corn
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapenos, and cilantro.
- Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix well and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with a variety of chips and optional dips like guacamole and queso.
Presentation:
Serve the salsa in a decorative bowl surrounded by an assortment of chips. Add small bowls of guacamole and queso dip to enhance the spread.
Pizza
Pizza is a universally loved food that makes for an ideal game day meal. It’s easy to share, customizable, and satisfying.
Ingredients for Margherita Pizza:
- Pizza dough
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Arrange mozzarella slices on top and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the pizza.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Add fresh basil leaves before serving.
Presentation:
Cut the pizza into slices and serve on a large wooden board. Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch.
International Flavors
Empanadas
Empanadas are a delightful snack that brings a taste of Latin America to your soccer viewing experience. These pastry pockets are filled with a variety of ingredients, making them versatile and delicious.
Ingredients for Beef Empanadas:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green olives, chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine flour and butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water and mix until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and onions until beef is browned. Stir in olives, hard-boiled eggs, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough and cut into circles using a round cutter.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Presentation:
Arrange empanadas on a platter and serve with dipping sauces like chimichurri, salsa, or spicy aioli.
Bruschetta
Bruschetta, an Italian appetizer, is another great choice for a soccer match. It’s simple to make, fresh, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients for Classic Tomato Bruschetta:
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until golden.
- In a bowl, combine tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted baguette slices.
Presentation:
Serve bruschetta on a large platter, garnished with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Finger Foods and Small Bites
Chicken Wings
No game day is complete without chicken wings. They are a staple at any sports event and come in a variety of flavors.
Ingredients for Buffalo Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken wings with salt and pepper.
- Bake the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through.
- In a bowl, mix hot sauce, melted butter, and vinegar.
- Toss the baked wings in the sauce to coat.
Presentation:
Serve the wings on a large platter with celery sticks and dipping sauces like ranch and blue cheese.
Sliders
Sliders are mini sandwiches that are both adorable and tasty. They are easy to eat and can be made with a variety of fillings.
Ingredients for Classic Cheeseburger Sliders:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper
- 12 mini burger buns
- 6 slices of cheddar cheese, halved
- Pickles, ketchup, mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill or stovetop griddle.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef with chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Form into 12 small patties.
- Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side or until done to your liking.
- Place a cheese slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking.
- Assemble the sliders with buns, pickles, ketchup, and mustard.
Presentation:
Arrange sliders on a tray with small flags or toothpicks for easy serving.
Sweet Treats
Brownies
Brownies are a rich and indulgent dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth during the game.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Beat in cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Spread the batter in a greased 9×9 inch pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool before cutting into squares.
Presentation:
Cut brownies into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a dessert platter. Dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Cookies
Cookies are another great option for a sweet treat that is easy to enjoy while watching the game.
Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cookies:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp hot water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- Dissolve baking soda in hot water and add to the mixture along with salt.
- Stir in flour and chocolate chips.
- Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased pans and bake for 10 minutes or until edges are nicely browned.
Presentation:
Arrange cookies on a tray with a variety of options to please all guests.
Refreshing Beverages
Soft Drinks
Keep a variety of soft drinks available to cater to different tastes.
- Cola and Lemon-Lime: Classic choices that are always popular.
- Root Beer and Ginger Ale: Offer unique flavors for a change of pace.
- Diet Options: Include diet versions for those who prefer them.
Alcoholic Beverages
For those who enjoy a drink during the game, provide a selection of alcoholic beverages.
- Beer: A game day staple with options like lagers, ales, and stouts.
- Wine: Offer red, white, and rosé to cater to different preferences.
- Cocktails : Simple mixes like margaritas, mojitos, and sangria are always a hit.
- Mocktails: For non-drinkers, provide non-alcoholic versions of popular cocktails.
Tips for Hosting a Soccer Viewing Party
Setting Up the Space
Create a comfortable and inviting space for your guests to enjoy the game.
- Seating: Ensure there is enough seating for everyone, with a clear view of the TV.
- Decorations: Use team colors and soccer-themed decorations to set the mood.
- Tables: Set up tables for food and drinks, making sure they are easily accessible.
Game Day Atmosphere
Enhance the excitement with these additional touches.
- Music: Play upbeat music before the game to get everyone in the spirit.
- Trivia and Games: Organize soccer trivia or small games during halftime to keep the energy high.
- Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with props for fun and memorable pictures.
FAQs
Conclusion
Watching soccer matches is a thrilling experience that can be made even better with the right food. From traditional game day snacks like chips and salsa and pizza to international flavors such as empanadas and bruschetta, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. By providing a variety of delicious options and creating a lively atmosphere, you’ll ensure that your soccer viewing party is a hit.
Disclosure: Our blog contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
