Backyard Gatherings: Our Guide to Easy Summer Entertaining

Backyard Gatherings: Our Guide to Easy Summer Entertaining

The summer season is for embracing the sunshine and gathering your friends and loved ones for some unforgettable summer entertaining!  We've put together this summer entertaining guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of summer entertaining with ease.  

From mouthwatering recipes to helpful tips and tricks, our guide covers all aspects of summer entertaining, ensuring that you can host with ease and confidence. 

So, whether you're hosting a casual get-together with friends, a backyard barbecue, or a poolside soiree, let us help you create lasting memories.

1. Festive Theme

The key to a successful summer gathering is creating the right atmosphere. Start by setting the scene with colorful decorations, ambient lighting, and comfortable seating arrangements. Consider adding pops of color with vibrant tablecloths, string lights, and floral centerpieces to create a festive vibe that will delight your guests.

2. Sizzling Summer Recipes

No summer party is complete without delicious food, and we've got plenty of mouthwatering recipes to choose from. Fire up the grill and treat your guests to juicy burgers, flavorful kebabs, and grilled vegetables straight from the garden. For a refreshing treat, whip up a batch of homemade lemonade or fruity popsicles to keep everyone cool and hydrated.

Grilled Citrus Chicken Skewers

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lime zest, orange zest, lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss to coat in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
  4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
  5. Serve the grilled citrus chicken skewers hot off the grill, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Watermelon Feta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups cubed watermelon
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
  2. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the watermelon mixture and toss gently to coat.
  3. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
  4. Serve the watermelon feta salad chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.

 

3. Cool Cocktails and Refreshing Beverages

Beat the summer heat with a selection of cool cocktails and refreshing beverages. Serve up classic favorites like margaritas, mojitos, and sangria, or get creative with signature drinks that reflect your personal style. Don't forget to offer plenty of non-alcoholic options for guests who prefer to skip the booze.

Refreshing Cucumber Lemonade

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a pitcher, combine the water, fresh lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  2. Add the thinly sliced cucumber to the pitcher and stir to combine.
  3. Refrigerate the cucumber lemonade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cucumber lemonade over the ice.
  5. Garnish each glass with a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh mint.

 

4. Fun and Games

Keep the party going with a variety of fun games and activities for guests of all ages. Set up a DIY photo booth complete with props and backdrops for silly snapshots, or organize a friendly tournament for some competitive fun. 

Cheers to a summer filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments!

Ready to host the ultimate summer party? Visit our website for more tips, recipes, and inspiration to help you plan the perfect gathering. Let's make this summer one to remember!

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