Summer is just around the corner and before you know it, it will be time to bust out the grill! This sunny season is the perfect time to host your shower or engagement party right in the backyard or any outdoor location of your choosing. To get you ready for your outdoor celebration, here are some delicious things you will want to add to the menu to keep people talking about your event for long after summer has ended!
Refreshing Hors D’Oeuvres
With summer comes the delicious, juicy fruit we have all missed out on for the past few months, and everyone knows you really can’t go wrong with fruit! One of the best things about fruit, besides it’s delicious and refreshing taste, is that it can be enjoyed by everyone including vegans, vegetarians, dairy-free, and meat eaters! A decorative fruit display is a great option if you are going more casual. However, if you want to step things up a notch, there are endless possibilities for passed hors d’oeuvres. One of my most popular hors d’oeuvres (and a personal favorite) is watermelon cubes with crumbled feta, basil and balsamic. The flavors of this treat pair perfectly together, it’s a guaranteed hit!
Colorful Salad
Summer is all about pops of color! Bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries, grapes, pears and so on, the possibilities are endless. Strawberries & Spinach, Pear & Bibb Lettuce, and Tomato & Mozzarella are all delicious duos to consider! You can also throw a twist on a traditional mixed greens salad and add new variety to it by mixing up the textures. I love adding grilled broccoli or mushrooms to the traditionally raw salad, not only is it delicious, but it ties in the summer grilling vibe.
Spiked Strawberry Lemonade
There is no doubt that you need the perfect summer signature cocktail to complete your summer menu! Lemonade is an obvious choice, and you really can’t go wrong with a spiked strawberry lemonade. Below is the recipe for the delicious summer cocktail, you may even find that it tastes like everyone’s favorite pink Starburst, YUM!
Here is what you will need:
1¼ oz Spiced Rum
½ oz Simple Syrup (or one stevia packet if you want to reduce sugars)
1 Sliced Strawberry
1 Slice of Lemon
5 oz of Fresh Lemonade
Club Soda (optional)
- Muddle the strawberry, lemon, and simple syrup
- Add the spiced rum, lemonade and ice then shake
- Serve in a highball glass, top off with club soda (optional) and garnish with a lemon peel
Bonus Tip: If you want to go the self-serve route and make a big batch for your decorative drink dispensers, I recommend getting strawberry puree instead of using fresh berries to avoid blocking up the spouts.
So there you have it, three must-haves for your Summer Soiree. Summer is a great time to host your celebrations whether it be your engagement party, bridal shower, or even the big day itself! There are so many ways to have fun during the sunny months and the option to spend any or even all of your event outdoors is always great. Take advantage of the sunshine and be sure to add the sweet and refreshing flavors that come with it into your event as well. Happy wedding planning!
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