Those who love white wines such as Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay appreciate a good combination, and  the perfect taste they  create with our Alexian pâtés. White wines are a great choice of serving at any time since they usually have lower alcohol levels than red wines. They are better chilled, and when consumed with fish, salads, or light meals with vegetables, this kind of wine  leaves a refreshing feeling. Our suggestion of pairing with Alexian pâté will do the experience  even better.

Riesling wine goes well with Champagne Pâté, Sage & Pork Mousse Pâté, or Chicken Liver Mousse Pâté because of this wine’s flowery and aromatic character. Riesling wine is characterized for its dry, semi-sweet, and sparkling sip, so our pâté’s selection is a great match. 

Try pairing Sauvignon Blanc with Tomato Basil Pâté and Curry and Bell Pepper Pâté. This green-skinned grape variety is the fruity taste you want for a fresh pâté choice. 

Alexian Pâté pairing options for Chardonnay are Sage & Pork Mousse Pâté, or Truffle Mousse Pâté. This green variety of wine is used in the production of white wine, and it is its rich and creamy  flavor that makes it perfect for our  variety of products.

We have the perfect pairing for you to snack on.  Alexian Mousse on blinis are that sudden and delightful bite. In addition to the Alexian products you already know, we want to bring a delicious tip with blinis, which are an Eastern European mini pancake traditionally made from wheat or buckwheat flour, and served with several garnishes. Blini is one of the most-eaten dishes in this side of Europe, and we are introducing to you as the perfect match with our Alexian Mousse. Together they can be served on a variety of occasions since they are  great and tasty appetizers.

 Chicken Liver Mousse on Blinis:

This original duo will not  take more than a few minutes to prepare. Simply spread a generous portion of Alexian’s Chicken Liver Mousse over some blinis,  and top with strawberry or grape jam.

The Chicken Liver Mousse’s savory flavor is  perfect for  the sweetness of the jam. You may also slice some pickled grapes in half, and place on the pâté as a topping. 

Truffle Mousse on Blinis:

For this flavorsome combination, you need cherry tomatoes cut in half.  Spread Alexian’s Truffle Mousse on the blinis,  and top with cherry tomatoes for a sensational degustation. The rich Truffle Mousse flavor is much for  each bite.

Duck Liver and Pork Mousse with Cognac 

Boasting a sophisticated flavor profile, Alexian award-winning pâté  is the fresh, natural and definitively delicious option for a pairing. For this match we spread Duck Liver and Pork Mousse with Cognac on the blinis, and we enhance the plate with pear slices and celery sticks. 

Enjoy with a glass of wine!

Refreshing summer fruits are ideal companions to pâté; they make great appetizers for summer dinners, brunches, and cookouts.

To begin, choose three or four Alexian pâtés. A smooth and creamy pâtésuch as our Chicken Liver Mousse; a country-style pâté such as our Campagne Pâté; and a vegetarian choice such as our Tomato Basil all go well together.

After you have selected your pâtés, pick up some green onions, olives, and cornichons to add to the tray. Sliced nectarines or peaches make a delicious pairing with pâtéin the summer and are a terrific way to combine sweet and savory flavors. 

Another refreshing fruit pairing is sliced strawberries, raspberries, or red currants with chicken liver mousse, or pineapple diced with Pâté de Campagne. 

To complement your meal, incorporate some sliced pita, ciabatta, or baguette along with hot mustard and celery sticks for an unforgettable meal.

Place everything on plain white serving ware to highlight the brilliant hues. Enjoy!

Elegant and delicious, duck liver mousse toast makes for a perfect pre-dinner bite— especially during the holidays when you want to impress your guests. Best of all? It’s an incredibly simple appetizer to whip up with few ingredients and easy preparation.
From the ingredients to the instructions, here’s everything you need to know about crafting this scrumptious snack.

Ingredients for 1 Serving:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 sprigs thyme plus ½ tsp. fresh thyme leaves
1 ½ ounces Duck Liver with Pork Mousse and Cognac
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1 slice of toasted bread

Instructions:

Heat butter and thyme sprigs in a small skillet over medium heat, swirling occasionally until butter is melted and starting to brown. This should take around 2–3 minutes.
Season pâté with salt and pepper.
Increase heat to medium-high. Quickly heat the pâté, stirring and basting constantly, until warm and crispy on both sides. This should take around 30–45 seconds.
Transfer pâté to toast, drizzle with some butter from the skillet.
Scatter thyme leaves over.

Summer is just around the corner, and you know what that means: margaritas, pool time, and pâté. Erm, OK, so pâté isn’t technically a “summer thing,” but that doesn’t mean it can’t be. In fact, we sought out to hear from several pâté enthusiasts on how they incorporate the French classic into their summertime dishes— and as it turns out, they had a lot to say. 

Read on as 10 people reveal their favorite go-to summertime recipes when it comes to pâté.

“As soon as summer hits, I plan on creating one of my favorite recipes: pâté-stuffed mushrooms. I typically use Grand Marnier pâté, but the recipe works with just about any variety. It’s perfect as a light appetizer for a garden party.”— Aly C., 28

“Summertime calls for a pâté Caprese sandwich. First, I cut open the roll, slice the tomatoes, and spread pâté, to taste, on the underside of the top half of the roll. Then, I drizzle the dish with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Add basil and tomato to the bottom half of the roll and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top with fresh mozzarella and enjoy.” — David F., 33

“A light dish I love making once the weather warms up is tomato pasta salad. I typically incorporate 1 slice of Alexian Pâté de Campagne into the mix and top it off with some Parmesan cheese. So good!” — Rachel B., 31

“I’m all about enjoying a simple crostini by the pool. To make one, I place cheese and pâté on the bread and top with a cherry tomato slice. It’s a delicious snack I never get tired of!”— Barbara S., 25

 “I like to whip up a scrumptious omelette on summer weekends for me and my partner. And sometimes, if I’m feeling particularly adventurous, I incorporate coarse pâtés, diced and cubed, into the mix. My go-to is chicken and veal pâté as it pairs well with cheese, tomatoes, peppers, and onions.”— Peter J., 30

“As a big fan of savory crepes, a go-to summer staple of mine is Truffle Mousse with shredded chicken, asparagus, and roasted tomatoes. It’s honestly heaven-sent and way, WAY better than any banana-Nutella combo.”— Amy S, 26

“I like to get creative with my summer salads, and often toss Chicken Ballotine on top of my bed of greens. It’s a unique addition that instantly upgrades my meal.”— Laura A, 35

“I like to use Chicken Ballotine pâté as a base for my lunch wraps during the summer. After I cut it into bite-sized chunks, I mix it up with slices of pineapple, avocado, leafy greens, fresh bell peppers, and a light vinaigrette. The result is a tropical and fresh flavor that makes me feel like I’m lounging somewhere in the Caribbean— and not sitting at home in New Jersey.”— Jon D, 37

“For dinner on cool summer nights, I like to make pasta with Alexian Black Peppercorn Mousse for the whole family. The mousse adds a melt-in-your-mouth creamy texture to the pasta that’s better than anything I’ve ever ordered at a 5-star restaurant. “—  Leslie T., 44

“During BBQ season, I’m a big fan of grilling pâté-topped bistro burgers. My usual go-to’s are Alexian Truffle Mousse or Black Peppercorn with a layer of melted cheese, lettuce, caramelized onions, and sautéed mushrooms. It’s perfect for a summer cookout or anytime you want a special occasion burger from the comfort of your own home.”—  Dan F., 30

Everyone loves a garden party. And while spring weather is notoriously a little temperamental, it’s worth braving for an alfresco afternoon among loved ones

After what has felt like the longest winter, like, ever, of being cooped up inside, nothing feels more satisfying (and fun!) than soaking in the long-awaited sun. Think: delicious drinks, savory seasonal food, and pâté. Lots and lots of pâté.

Here, we highlight the ultimate guide to your next pâté garden party.

Dip is Essential

Make room for the life of the party: dips. We suggest making a dip for tortilla or pita chips by lightly mashing a vegetable or vegan pâté with a fork. Featuring a colorful three-layer composition of spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, and carrot mousses, our Vegetable pâté is a perfect choice for this appetizer. Warning: will be gone in 10 seconds flat.

Get Seasonal with Fruits

It’s no surprise that spring equates to gardening, fresh vegetables, and fresh fruits. In the case of a garden party, we suggest serving pâté slices with fruit. Namely, brandied cherries and/or sour cherries. Sprinkle them in with some extra Cognac or Brandy and… Voila!

Become One with the Grill

Grilling recipes are perfect for a garden party because, well, you don’t have to cook anything inside (especially important during these times). If you’re grilling steak, spread Truffle Mousse over the top of the meat once it has come right off of the grill for a European twist to an American classic.

More of a plant-based person? Don’t panic: Grill a mix of summer or spring vegetables, cut into long slices, then spread a thin layer of our vegan Tomato-Basil pâté on top while they are still warm. Yum!

Indulge in Libations

Really looking to make your garden party the talk of the town? One word: wine. And lots of it.

When it comes to white wine, Chardonnay pairs beautifully with Sage & Pork Mousse and Truffle Mousse, while Riesling is a lovely accompaniment to Chicken Liver Mousse and Mushroom Artichoke.

As for reds, we suggest a glass of Pinot Noir with our Forest Mushroom or Pheasant Rosemary for a beautiful-yet-boozing pairing. More of a Merlot or Rosé enthusiast? Then opt for our Grand Marnier variety, boasting hearty flavors of cognac and fresh orange.

Cheers!

It’s no secret that the key to anyone’s heart is food— and this is especially true on Valentine’s Day.

For some couples (or anything in-between), this means going out to a fancy restaurant and ordering a lavish five-course dinner. However, for others, a quiet night in with creative cocktails, delicious snacks, and a good Netflix binge is what it’s all about.

If the latter is more your speed, consider these four savory pâté-tizers that will show off your cooking skills this Valentine’s Day.

Brie and Fig Crostini

Not only is our Brie and Fig Crostini recipe creamy, smooth and delicate in flavor, it’s also incredibly simple. Slice brie and warm in a pan for a few seconds until just before it melts. Top crostini with brie slices. Then, add a layer of Duck Rillette, which has been brought to room temperature. Top with freshly sliced figs or fig jam. Voila!

Cilantro Tomato Bruschetta

Dice tomatoes and cilantro together and mix with salt and pepper. Then, dice up your choice of any of our coarse cut pâtés (we recommend our Herb de Provence or our Wild Forest Mushroom). Mix the pâté with the tomato mixture, top the bread to serve, and watch your partner swoon over their gourmet appetizer.

French Picnic Spread

If you’re looking to make a romantic statement to a new beau — without looking like a 5-stage clinger — our French Picnic Spread is just the thing.

For this, you will absolutely need: pâté (of your choosing); fresh, crusty bread; cornichons; good cheese; cured meat; and, naturally, some wine. Feel free to incorporate some fresh fruit and a little honey for the cheese, too. Oh, and pro tip: Dress the table with a gingham cloth for a final touch!

3-Ingredient Cracker Bites

Feeling extra low-key this Valentine’s Day? Don’t fret: Our 3-Ingredient Cracker Bites recipes are here to help.

Our Black Peppercorn Mousse goes perfectly with caramelized onions and a mild smoked gouda, while smoked cheddar complements the bold flavors of our classic Chicken Liver Mousse. Another great combination is any of our vegan or vegetable varieties paired with creamy hummus and crunchy cucumbers. Yum!

If you’re looking to learn a little more about pâté, there’s no need to dig through cookbooks for knowledge. These quotes about pâte— from food critics to the late Anthony Bourdain — will surely resonate.

Read on below as we unveil our favorite pâté quotes of the decade!

On first-time pâté nerves…

“You’ve made meatloaf, right? You’ve eaten cold meatloaf, yes? If so, you’re halfway to pâté. Nothing to be scared of!” — Anthony Bourdain, Chef, Book Author, Journalist, and Travel Documentarian

On the must-have flavors and textures…

“Pâté is cashmere for the palate. Smooth, rich and decadent, it seems more sinful than it is.” — Kathleen Willcox, Author of “Hudson Valley Wine: A History of Taste & Terroir.”

On the benefits (taste and otherwise) of indulging…

“It may be an acquired taste, but it’s something that you should go out of your way to acquire—like a learned language, or a rare book. The iron-y, gamey taste of liver, the most accessible of all the organ meats, sharpens all that it accompanies. It makes red wine richer and cheeses acid-bright; it can make your conversation wittier with each bite. It can make a lazy, homebound Sunday feel accomplished.” — Talia Lavin, Guest Contributor at Bon Appétit and Author of “Culture Warlords”

On the effortless plating…

“Foams and ballotines may impress MasterChef judges, but they’ll never hit the spot like a buttery hunk of pâté… It’s luxurious enough to make the table for your festive feasts (and can be made days in advance) but is easy to throw together for lunch all year round. Did I mention it’s dangerously easy too?” — Felicity Cloake, Author of Six Cookbooks and Past Winner of the Guild of Food Writers awards for Food Journalist of the Year

On how to serve it…

“Good bread and cornichons, of course. Other pickled vegetables are good, too. And wine! It is important to have a balance with the rich flavors of pâté. Always have wine with pâté.” — Chef Antoine Westermann of Parisian bistro Le Coq Rico, speaking to Food Republic Senior Editor Jess Kapadia

Feeling bogged down by cold weather blues? Then it may be time to head to the kitchen. 

When there’s a chill in the air, nothing beats a hearty, comfort meal. Which leads us to ask: What’s more hearty or comforting than pâté? The answer: nothing. Plus, if you’re stuck inside all day— whether due to frigid temperatures or heavy snowfall— you might as well eat some damn good food.

So, without further ado, here are our top three pâté picks for a winter night in.

Grand Marnier

Offering a savory experience that’s hearty but not overpowering, a bite of Grand Marnier pâté will leave your palate with lingering flavors of cognac and fresh orange. In other words, it’s as comforting as a warm blanket. 

For a light and quick winter snack, we suggest cubing Grand Marnier pâté and spearing it on a toothpick as you binge-watch your favorite TV show. Craving something a bit heavier? Pick your favorite crusty French bread and add lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles for an effortless sandwich.

Pro tip: Try Grand Marnier with a medium bodied red wine, such as Merlot. Trust us— you won’t regret it.

Truffle Mousse

Full-flavored and easy to spread, Truffle Mousse pâté boasts a delightful mixture of rich flavors and creamy, delicate textures— perfect for cozying up on the couch.  

For pairing, enjoy by spreading over a simple baguette or a toasted cracker. Watching your figure? Don’t fret: Truffle Mousse pâté also pairs wonderfully with salads, creating an instantly light and satisfying meal.

If you’re looking for a buzz, opt for a glass of Rosé or Chardonnay which will bring out the earthy tones of the truffle and the best of the wild mushroom flavor. 

Tomato Basil

Vegans, rejoice! Tomato Basil pâté is a totally meat-free option that’s low in fat and calories, clocking in at just 30 calories per serving.

For a quick and refreshing meal that channels Mediterranean cuisine, pair Tomato Basil with a green salad that incorporates balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. If you’re pining for some carbs (aren’t we all?), serve it with sliced whole grain breads and toppings of your choice for a delicious mini sandwich.

Other serving options include: flax crackers, raw pizza crusts, or dip for fresh veggies. 

Happy eating!

The holidays may be a little different this year, with fewer of our family and friends around the table, but you can still keep the holiday spirit alive with a show stopping dish. Two words: Charcuterie. Board.

We know, we know. You’re probably asking yourself: But how exactly do I transform a regular ‘ol charcuterie board into a magically festive meal for the holidays? Don’t fret: We’re here to help!

Here, we lay out everything you need to know about creating a holly jolly (not to mention, delicious!) charcuterie board for the holiday season.

The Cheeses

We suggest keeping it simple and using only three or four of your favorite cheeses. For a holiday charcuterie board, we always opt for a creamy Brie, a sharp cheddar, and a logof goat cheese. Not only are these cheeses well-loved by everyone, they’re also affordable and provide a nice variety..

The Meat

You didn’t think we’d go a whole blog post without mentioning pâté did you? When it comes to our holiday charcuterie boards, our top picks are our Grand Marnier, Chicken & Veal, and Herb de Provence. Also consider adding a smooth, spreadable option like our Truffle Mousse or Duck Liver Mousse with Cognac. Decadent and fulfilling, these pâtés can be perfectly paired with a multitude of cheeses and crackers, and are also always holiday favorites.

Hosting a vegan or vegetarian affair? Don’t panic: There’s pâté for that as well!

The Theme

Preparing a charcuterie board is like decorating: You can put a beautiful platter together with a mix of colors, textures, and shapes– just like you would a home. That’s why when it comes to a holiday charcuterie board, we suggest sticking to a theme; one that includes reds, greens, and whites.

Pears, grapes, and pomegranates are winter fruits that match the Christmas theme, while cranberries also add a dash of holiday spirit. Nuts and olives are a great festive choice as well, as well as some fresh rosemary. Oh, and don’t forget the crackers!

Overall, it’s essential to remember to place the large items like cheese and meats first. Then, fill in with nuts, fruit, and so on.

Happy holidays!

Much like wine, pâtés are filled with intricate flavors— and when paired, the full flavors of both truly come alive.

Overall, the acidity and refreshing nature of white wines are fabulous with most creamy, mousse style pâtés and vegetable pâtés, while the deep, satisfying flavors of red wines are a tasty companion to the heartier mousse and the traditional country style pâtés. That said, some pâté and wine combinations are more delicious than others.

Here, we lay out 5 of our favorite wine and pâté pairings.

Truffle Mousse can be enjoyed with red or white wines. This lighter bodied mousse calls for lighter bodied red wines, like a Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais. White wines are also a great companion and bring out the best of the truffle flavor and creamy texture. Try this pâté with a lighter bodied, unoaked Chardonnay or a glass of Champagne.

When it comes to Duck Liver Mousse with Cognac, we suggest pairing it with a classic Cabernet or a Port Winter. The sweetness of the Port plays well off of the pâté’s special blend of spices.

Garnished with fresh orange slices, Grand Marnier Pâté features pork, duck, and chicken liver with orange liqueur. Try this pâté with a Rosé wine. Rosé wines are medium bodied and many have the refreshing feel of white wine with a somewhat deep flavor more typical of a red.

OurForest Mushroom Pâté features the deep and earthy flavors of… well, mushrooms. To many wine enthusiasts, mushrooms should be thought of as red meat in terms of wine pairings. Pinot noir or Cabernet are perfect choices for these pâtés, or try a fuller bodied wine like Zinfandel.

Serve Tomato Basil Pâté or our Mushroom Artichoke with a dry Sauvignon Blanc. Sauvignon Blancis zesty and acidic, making it a great complement to foods that feature tomatoes or artichokes.

The perfect Holiday wish? Well, it depends on who you ask, of course. 

This year, Alexian asked 10 of our most loyal pâté enthusiasts about their wishes for the 2020 Holiday season. The response? Loving, thoughtful feedback that we hope can bring light and cheer to your day—  and the 2020 Holiday season. 

“My wish for this holiday season? May it fill all Americans’ homes with joy, your heart with love, and your life with laughter.” — Nora S.

“To a healthy, happy, and peaceful New Year.” — Alex D.

“As lovely as the holidays can be for many, they can also make some feel down and blue. I know this can be a difficult time of year, and I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’m sending you lots of love.” — Laura F.

“To an extremely joyful present and a well remembered past. Best wishes for happy holidays and a magnificent New Year.” — Kristin C.

“Whatever is beautiful to you. Whatever is meaningful to you. Whatever brings you happiness. May it be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year.” — Ronald C.

“Lots of laughter. Lots of good food. And lots of love. What else is there to life, anyway?” — Rebecca A.

“May your holidays sparkle with moments of love, laughter, and goodwill. Oh, and did I mention delicious food?” — Anne S.

“I’m wishing all my loved ones cookies and cakes and spices and cocoa… When it starts to smell like the holidays, it’s hard not to get into the spirit.” — Danielle F.

“Our family wishes everyone a joyous holiday season and a new year filled with happiness and hope for a world at peace.” — Donald N.

“This Holiday season, it’s hard to not wish for health around the world. Times are tough, but together we can all pull through.” — Debra T.