Game, set, match! The Wimbledon [1] tournament starts today — and if you're planning on tuning in at all, there are a few classic drinks and dainty dishes to prepare to keep you in line with the event's Victorian heritage. From finger sandwiches to strawberries and cream, these Wimbledon-inspired recipes are light on the cooking yet heavy hitters on taste.
Champagne
Lanson Champagne [2] sponsors Wimbledon and sells its crisp Champagne by the bottle. Serve this special-occasion brut bubbly while watching the match live.
Strawberries and Cream
The most famous Wimbledon treat is actually quite simple to prepare. Delicate, ripe strawberries are served with a splash of cream.
Pimm's Cup
When spectators aren't popping bottles, they're drinking Pimm's Cup [3], a gin-based cocktail with ginger ale, cucumbers, and a sprig of mint.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea [4] has been a Wimbledon tradition as far back as 1877 [5]. Hot tea, scones [6], clotted cream, and strawberry jam [7] are essentials.
Gravlax Crostini
Simple and elegant, these gravlax crostini [8] are topped with a dollop of crème fraiche and a sprinkling of capers.
Tea Sandwiches
Classic cucumber and cream cheese finger sandwiches [9] hold up for hours and are light and refreshing to snack on throughout the match.
Quiche
Make this caramelized onion, red pepper, and sun-dried tomato quiche [10] ahead of time, and then serve the slices chilled.
Chicken Cornish Pasties
If dainty finger sandwiches and strawberries won't fill you up, then try these hardy Cornish pasties [11] stuffed with chicken, butternut squash, and carrots.