Food and Wine Pairings: Toddler Mom Edition

Since having kids, your dinner menu has probably changed quite a bit. Even the best eaters might refuse to even try your famous chicken piccata. So if you find yourself in new food territory, picking a complementary drink may take some trial and error. Luckily I’ve done the hard work for you (and dry January has come to a close). May I present my favorite food and wine pairings for toddler approved dinners.

I’m ready to pour

• Cheeseburger and Syrah
  • Even if somehow your kid has managed to eat the cheese right off your burger how and WHY?, a bold red like a Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon helps emphasis the peppery notes in the meat
• Mac and Cheese and Pinot Gris
  • Pretend that box of orange pasta is it’s sophisticated cousin, fettuccine alfredo. Pour a glass of white and enjoy
• Chicken Tenders and Fries and Champagne
  • Let me be frank: I could answer Champagne for each and every dish. It’s just good. But I really like it with something heavier (and greasier) like tenders or nuggets
• Pepperoni Pizza and Chianti
  • Every time we make a (gluten free) pizza at home I’m left trying to sneak a piece before the kids catch me, or else I just get stuck with their crusts. But regardless of the state of my slice, I think a classic Italian Chianti works well with it

Can I get that info in a cute little picture?

Why, of course! Heck, you could even print, laminate, and keep it on your fridge for easy reference.

Maybe it’s not quite as exotic as you are used to, but just remember that in about 15 more years you’ll be able to get back to your favorite meals. Until then, think of each dinner as the opportunity to figure out the best food and wine pairings.

Have you discovered any surprising pairings since becoming a parent? Or maybe something that does not work at all? Share them in the comments below so we can all benefit!

Pass it on!