5. Go Big on Chips and Dips
"Dips are a no-cook crowd-pleaser, and
they're perfect for tailgating," Zahn said.
He serves guac, hummus and buffalo ranch
with tortilla chips, pretzels and veggie sticks
in single-serve disposable cups - no double
Tailgating without a grill doesn't mean compromising
on flavor or fun. With the right nocook
lineup - and a few strategic shortcuts -
anyone can host a winning party this season.
For more ideas, visit HormelGatherings.com.
10021158
No Grill, No Problem
5 Easy Tailgate Foods That Don't Require Cooking
FAMILY FEATURES
Tailgating season is in full swing, but
not everyone has time (or space) to
fire up a grill before kickoff. Whether
you're hosting friends in your driveway, tailgating
without a truck or trying to simplify
game-day prep, you're not alone.
According to Paul Zahn, entertaining expert,
fall is the perfect time to rethink the traditional
"You don't need a grill to impress your guests
- you just need the right mix of crowd-pleasers,
portability and no-fuss presentation,"
Zahn said. "It's all about creating a vibe that
feels fun and elevated, without requiring
hours in the kitchen."
The makers of Hormel Gatherings products
- known for their ready-to-serve party trays
loaded with premium meats, cheeses and
crackers - tapped Zahn to share his five goto
tips for building a no-cook tailgate spread
that scores big.
1. Lean Into Local Favorites
"I love anchoring my events with a theme
and what better way to celebrate your team
than creating food and drinks that pay homage
to them and their states," Zahn said. "I'm
talking hometown eats with a twist."
For instance, Virginia ham fans can stack
mild cheddar and honey ham between two
crispy crackers, hit it with mustard and
boom: instant ham-and-cheese bite. Bonus
points for pairing with a local brew.
2. Make It Portable and Shareable
"No one wants to juggle a plate and a beer,"
Zahn said. "Think grab-and-go."
He loads up Hormel Gatherings trays and
gets creative: caprese skewers with tomato,
basil, mozzarella and salami, or "jar-cuterie"
- mini jars layered with meats, cheeses and
crackers. It's a creative way to serve charcuterie
the grab-and-go convenience.
OVER 40 YEARS
tailgate menu.
FALL SPECIAL
A+
Rating
without the mess, and guests love
3. Sweeten the Deal
"A sweet treat always buttons up your tailgating
fun so dessert is a must-have," Zahn
said, "but keep it bite-size."
His go-to is mini doughnuts in football
themed cups with whipped cream and
team-colored sprinkles. Or go seasonal with
apple cider doughnuts, pumpkin cookies or
mini pies.
4. Don't Forget the Bevs
"I love creating signature cocktails for events
but no one wants to be mixing and muddling
drinks when tailgating with friends," Zahn
said. "Make your cocktails the night before
so you can actually enjoy the party."
He preps mason jars of team-themed drinks
(a Bloody Mary if your colors are red and
black) and loads them in a cooler with sparkling
waters, canned cocktails and local
beers.
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dipping, no mess.
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