Summer Dinner Party with Best Friends

You’ve known these friends forever, but you live too far apart to see them often. Luckily the summer season gives everyone more time to travel, visit, and catch up with one another. You have one of those best friend catch-up weekends planned for this summer, and you want to make the most of it. Knowing that there will be lots of conversation, you want to spend as little time as possible in the kitchen so that you don’t miss out on one second of the fun. Not only should the food be easy to prepare, but it should be filled with seasonal flavors, and casual enough that it adds to the convivial spirit. Plan on serving this seasonal summer menu outside where nothing more formal is required than a pair of comfy shorts, tee shirt, and good conversation.

Setting the Stage

Set a table that is big enough for everyone to sit around and easily see one another.

Cover the chairs in comfy, washable cushions so that everyone is comfortable sitting and chatting for many hours.

Light bug repellant candles around your party area to minimize the pest attack.

Have candles ready to light when the sun goes down (you know the conversation will continue long after it grows dark).

Bring out a few fun outdoor games, such as horseshoes or bocce, for when everyone needs to take a stretch.

Locate your photo album with pictures from the last time everyone was together and leave it out for reminiscing. Naturally, have a camera on hand to add new pictures to the album.

The Menu

Vodka Tonics - Mix up a pitcher of these for a refreshing summertime cocktail.

Boiled Shrimp with Oil and Lemon Sauce - This recipe can be served as a cold appetizer, allowing you to prepare it in advance.

Moroccan Chicken Kebabs - These savory, flavorful kebabs can be marinated overnight and simply grilled when you and your guests are ready for them.

Lemon Herb Orzo Salad with Pistachios - This light summer salad will be a delicious complement to your dinner.

Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter - Make a simple ear of corn special with this compound butter that can be prepared weeks before your dinner party if you freeze it.

Tossed Green Salad - A simple vinaigrette dressing is all you need when lettuce greens are in season.

Fresh Peach Ice Cream - Ice cream is the perfect dessert for a hot summer day. And peach ice cream makes the most of one of summer’s favorite fruits.

As the day cools down, pull out a tray of ingredients for making s’mores. It will make everyone feel like a kid again, and give a sweet finish to a delicious day.