Jell-O, rumaki, avocado pie, fondue, deviled eggs, and tequila sunrises took center stage of the culinary scene in the ’60s and ’70s. Although some of these items have faded away in popularity, others have endured the test of time and been updated to appeal to current-day tastes. Our vintage-inspired throwback menu features dishes reflective of decades past, and all are well suited for outdoor entertaining and for easy make-ahead prepping. So pull out your turntable and vinyl records, light the tiki torches, and serve up an old-fashioned poolside spread with some modern twists!
Pimento Cheese Ball
In an updated version of the ever-popular cheese ball, Cooking with Cocktail Rings adds bacon and a touch of minced dill pickle to sharp cheddar and silky cream cheese. The pecans bring a satisfying crunch, but if nuts aren’t in your diet, roll in chopped parsley or dill for extra flavor.
The Best Relish Tray
Relish trays were all the rage. Did you know that this retro item mostly consists of crisp pickled and brined vegetables? Take Two Tapas offers ideas to show off the colorful ingredients, like in these mason jars. Unlike a charcuterie platter, a relish tray is simple to put together and all the ingredients can be found in the supermarket or in your fridge.
Grandma’s Best Ambrosia Salad
Chewy marshmallows, juicy pineapple, fluffy whipped cream … this recipe by A Spicy Perspective can only be classified as deliciously decadent—but in a groovy way! A retro favorite, ambrosia salad has held its own throughout the years and is still a staple at barbecues and picnics throughout the U.S. There’s a reason the standards stick around!
Cocktail Meatballs
There was a time when you couldn’t attend any type of gathering without seeing toothpick-studded mini meatballs on the buffet table. Easy to pass and serve, these perfectly poppable bites from Once Upon a Chef combine ground pork, heavy cream, and garlic. Slathered in a snappy sauce, they’re not only a crowd-pleaser, but they provide a much-appreciated infusion of protein to a cocktail party.
Tom Collins Cocktail
The Tom Collins cemented its place as a favorite summertime refresher a long, long time ago. Herbal gin, tangy lemon, and fizzy soda make for a thirst-quenching drink that you can mix up as potent or weak as you like. Sip over ice as you recline in a lounger!
Mini Cherry Cheesecakes
Some things never go out of style—and fruit-topped cheesecake is one of them! Shugary Sweets brings this favorite into the present with individual-sized portions that don’t require fussy dessert plates and utensils by the pool. Don’t be shy with that canned cherry pie filling!
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