Summer Dinner Parties That Aren’t BBQs

While backyard barbecues are always a hit, let’s face it — sometimes we want a delicious summer meal that doesn’t involve charred food and sweating over smoking hot flames. There’s more to explore when it comes to summer food staples, and for the remainder of summer 2017, we urge you to try something new! Put down your spatula and basting brush, and whip out the wine glasses, pasta bowls, and flower vases. Check out our recommendations for a summer dinner party that doesn’t involve burgers and hot dogs.

A Little Buzz 

Whether you’re a Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or Chardonnay fan, white wine in the summer is a refreshing pre-dinner drink that jumpstarts any party into liveliness and conversation. If you need help choosing the perfect white, check out a Sommelier’s guide, or surprise yourself with something you’ve never had before! You never know, you could fall in love with a new bottle (summer romance, anyone?) Pro tip: keep all of your bottles nice and cool before you’re ready to uncork and unleash the beauty.

For a tasty and fruity treat with an adult spin, try sweet Mango-Peach Sangria or a Cucumber-Honeydew Freeze. Both drinks are cool and light, and will keep you and your friends refreshed and revitalized as you bask in the warmth of the summer.

Start It All Off

Before you hit the main course, indulge in a simple snack or two. Light appetizers prime the taste buds and get a fun and relaxed vibe going. Put your beloved Jersey tomatoes to use with this Bruschetta. The recipe uses tasty red and yellow grape tomatoes piled onto toasty, buttery baguette pieces. This crunchy delight is surely something to write home about.

Nothing says summer quite like delicious, succulent seafood. Close your eyes, feel the sand beneath your toes, and smell the saltwater with plump, savory Crab Cakes with Garlic Aioli. This crowd-pleaser is easy to make, and only takes about 35 minutes. Dunk this app into your homemade aioli and watch your guests swoon.

Dinner Fit for Foodies and Friends

Pasta with fresh veggies and cheese? We chose this awesome Orecchiette with Corn, Greens, and Ricotta for a reason! Summer pastas are the cream of the crop, and this recipe from Bon Appétit will show you why. Tender pasta doused in fresh corn kernels, Swiss chard leaves, bacon, and ricotta makes for a main dish that’ll leave every plate spotless.

It may be hot outside, but there’s nothing wrong with a little spice in your food. Sesame Noodles with Chili Oil and Scallions will set your taste buds aflame — in the best way possible, of course. The Sichuan pepper and crushed red pepper flakes will amp up the heat at your table. These flavorful noodles are so good, you’ll want to slurp them up until they’re gone.

Sweet, Sweet Summertime Desserts

After a hot dinner, cool off with a sweet and chilled dessert. Banana Split Kabobs are super easy to make, and combine those delicious summertime flavors that you love. With strawberries, pineapple, bananas, brownie bites, whipped cream, and chopped nuts, these fun and delightful treats are the sweetest skewers you’ll ever eat.

If you love finger food as much as we do, you’ll go crazy over these gorgeous Strawberry Rhubarb Shortbread Bars. They’re small, cute, and insanely buttery and sweet. Finish off your fun summer party with an equally-as-fun handheld dessert! Your guests will leave delighted.

Spruce It Up! 

We’re firm believers that summer dinner parties aren’t only about the food. The ambience and character of your dining area, whether it be inside or outside, helps define the heart of your friendly gathering. Adorn your table with your favorite decorations that speak to you and your values. If you want something casual, try navy blue bandana place mats. If you like simple elegance, use gorgeous magnolias as a centerpiece. If you’re crazy about fun and funky trends, try bright sunflowers paired with lemons as place cards.

It’s not just the look, but the thought behind it. Treat your guests to a beautiful table, incredible food, and even better conversation. This summer, throw an unforgettable dinner party without the grill! Let the warm sun remind you of summers past, future, and most importantly, the best one of all — this summer.