beefeater gin cocktail sunset negroni aspect ratio 16 9

How to perfectly pair food with a Negroni

A Negroni is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Uniquely bitter, sweet and herbal, it’s packed with flavour from the equal parts gin, Campari and sweet vermouth.

These ingredients are what make the Negroni an excellent aperitif cocktail, originally created to awaken the senses before a meal. But it’s also a great sipper between bites. And with so much flavour to its name, there’s plenty of nibbles that complement it.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a relaxed night in, the right snacks can make all the difference.

Here are some delicious food pairings ideas to have with a Negroni cocktail.

BOLD CHEESES

The Negroni’s distinct bitterness from Campari calls for foods with strong flavours. And what better to pair it with than bold, salty cheeses? YUM.

Mature cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino and blue cheese have the intense taste needed to stand up to the cocktail’s robust profile. Their rich, umami flavours balance the Negroni’s bitterness beautifully, creating a seriously satisfying combo.

Consider serving a cheese board with a variety of textures and strengths. The creamy, tangy notes of blue cheese contrast wonderfully with the Negroni’s herbal notes, while the nutty, salty profile of Italian hard cheese adds a rich, savoury flavour.

Adding some dried fruits and nuts to your cheese board only makes this pairing even better, providing a mix of sweet and crunchy snacks that complement the cocktail’s balanced flavour.

Nibble between sips of a classic Negroni or try a Blood Orange Negroni, an extra citrusy sweet remix of the original that’ll work wonderfully with salty cheese.

GRILLED MEDITERRANEAN VEGETABLES

For a vegan-friendly option, grilled Mediterranean vegetables make a fantastic accompaniment to a Negroni, offering a fresh, earthy contrast to the cocktail’s bold flavour. The caramelisation and charred smokiness from grilling enhances the natural sweetness of veg like peppers, courgette and aubergine, pairing beautifully with the cocktail’s bitter edge.

These vegetables are flavourful and versatile, so you can serve them up however you like. Prepare a warm salad, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, or serve as part of a vibrant antipasto platter.

CURED MEATS

Cured meats, with their rich, savoury flavours and varying degrees of spiciness, are another excellent match for a Negroni.

Salty, fatty meats like salami and chorizo pair wonderfully with the cocktail’s bittersweet side – and are seriously indulgent. Whilst mild, lighter prosciutto complements the cocktail’s sweetness.

Prepare a charcuterie board with a selection of cured meats, crusty bread and pickles, for delicious pairing that also feels a bit fancy.

CITRUS-INFUSED DISHES

Given that the Negroni is often garnished with a twist of orange peel, it’s no surprise that citrus-infused dishes work well. The bright, zesty flavours of orange, lemon and lime can enhance the Negroni’s tangy edge, bringing a fresh and vibrant note to the pairing.

Dishes like citrus-marinated seafood, lemon chicken, or even a simple orange and fennel salad can complement the drink beautifully. Brightening the herbal, bitter tones.

Like lemons? Try a White Negroni for an extra zesty and slightly lighter alternative to the traditional recipe. Made with our lemon flavoured gin, Lillet Blanc and Italicus, it’s got all the freshness of a summer drink.

DARK CHOCOLATE

For a little bit of luxury, dark chocolate is an exceptional match for a Negroni. The rich, slightly bitter notes of high-quality dark chocolate are made for this cocktail. Chocolate’s sweetness balances the bitterness of the Campari, whilst its richness matches the Negroni’s refreshing taste.

Grab a line of your favourite bar or really go to town with a selection of dark chocolate squares or truffles. Try different cocoa percentages to explore various levels of bitterness and sweetness. And add some chocolate-covered nuts or fruits to mix up the textures and flavours.

Make the evening extra cosy with a Hot Negroni, a warming, citrus take on the original made with chamomile tea.

SPICY DISHES

Spicy foods can be a surprising but delightful pairing with a Negroni. The heat from dishes like spicy prawns, chilli-infused tacos, or even a fiery curry can complement the cocktail’s bitterness and sweetness. Adding an exciting layer of flavour that’ll become a new favourite for you and your friends.

The Negroni’s bitterness can help balance the heat, while its sweet undertones provide a soothing contrast. This pairing is perfect for those who fancy something a little unexpected.

NUTS AND OLIVES

Simple yet satisfying, nuts and olives are classic nibbles that pair well with any cocktail, including a Negroni. The mixture of salty and savoury contrast against the Negroni’s subtle sweetness. Plus they’re easy to prepare and serve, making them the ideal snack.

When it comes to nuts, anything goes. Try roasted or lightly salted almonds, cashews and pistachios to bring out the Negroni’s herbal and bitter notes. With green or black olives that have a briny, slightly tangy flavour.

FRESH SEAFOOD

Fresh seafood, particularly shellfish, is a delightful pairing with a Negroni for when you’re serving up something a little more sophisticated. The delicate, briny taste of mussels, shrimp or crab highlight the cocktail’s bitter and sweet notes. While the seafood’s freshness of the seafood brings lightness and fresh flavour to the mix.

Serve a platter of fresh oysters with a squeeze of lemon, or a prawn cocktail with a tangy sauce. However you do it, you’ll be sure to impress guests and win host points.

DESSERTS

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, pair your favourite dessert with a Negroni cocktail. Think along the lines of a dark chocolate torte, a fruity pie or even a slice of creamy cheesecake. The sweetness of these desserts will balance the cocktail’s bitterness, while their rich flavours will match its herbal complexity.

This pairing is perfect for those who love to finish their dining experience on a high note – and a top notch cocktail.

Pairing a Negroni with the right food is a sure fire way to elevate your cocktail experience. Whether you prefer the bold flavours of mature cheeses, the fresh and vibrant taste of grilled vegetables, or the indulgent richness of dark chocolate, there’s a perfect match for every palate.

Experiment with these pairings to discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this classic cocktail. And why not learn more about this classic drink? Discover the Negroni’s cocktail history and how it came to be so popular.

Did you know there’s also plenty of other ways to make it? Check out our favourite Negroni variations that put a twist on the original recipe.