If you followed me on Instagram over the summer, you’ll have noticed a trend (well, other than the appearance of lots more frites than usually appear on my feeds!). Many days, around 6-7pm, a photo of l’heure de l’apéro would pop up. L’heure de what???
Cocktail (apéritif) hour. The “apéro” as it’s known is the moment that signals your work day has ended and that you’re ready to relax. (if you’re interested in learning all about this oh-so-French routine, check out this comprehensive article over on France Today). You’ll eat dinner later but for now, you’ll enjoy a cold glass of something and perhaps a nibble of something savoury. For us this summer, it often meant rosé…
And you’ll notice chips (crisps) and “cheesy snacks” make quite an appearance as well…
Because, when in France, one simply must try all the cool flavours on offer…
If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, there’s always saucisson…
But if it’s something on the lighter side you’re after, you’ll love French radishes…
The pink drink in the photo above is a mix of homemade strawberry syrup (similar to this rhubarb/strawberry one) mixed into Soda Stream-ed fizzy water. Thirst quenching on a hot day.
On the other hand, radishes are a perfect partner for chips and cheesy snacks…
But good olives are always a sure bet too…
If you’re into prepping a little snack, gougères are always a good idea…
In fact, an apéro is always a good idea, period. Though I generally don’t drink wine during the week once I am back at school, I’m hoping to bring a little apéro action to my life through homemade syrups and fizzy water. The act of “mixing” a drink (alcoholic or not) and taking the time to enjoy it (outside if the weather permits) means you do stop and take a little time for yourself before dinner prep starts. And I say that can only be a good thing.
I’ve just started harvesting radishes from my garden, and now I know a lovely way to use them. 🙂 Thank you for the inspiration!
Ooo I’d love to try some french snacks too!