From outdoor cookouts to leisurely afternoon drinks with friends, summer is a time for celebration! This year, we're excited to dust off our grills and safely host family and friends once again. We partnered with Harry & David, Jess Larson of @playswellwithbutter and Kylie Mazon-Chambers of @cookingwithcocktailrings to put together our best tips and tricks for
summer entertaining al fresco!
Tip #1 Start Your Meal Like An Italian
Greet your guests with an Italian-inspired antipasto board like Kylie Mazon-Chambers. Build your board with a variety of cheeses, meats and special surprises like artichoke pesto and red pepper spread. The entire board can be prepped ahead of time, well wrapped and refrigerated until your guests arrive. Setting out a board sets the tone for the evening, transporting your guests to Italy without leaving the backyard!
Tip #2 Prep Ahead with a Burger Bar
Keep it simple and set out a burger bar like Jess Larson. Offer a selection of condiments, toppings and add-ons for guests to DIY their burgers. Add unexpected toppings and condiments to your bar for guests to experiment. Along with the usual suspects ketchup and mustard, crispy bacon, relishes and toppers like bruschetta and jalapeño jelly are always big crowd-pleasers.
Tip #3 Offer Suggestions
Even the most adventurous guests need a little nudge. Set out cards at your burger bar with a few suggestions:
The Old Reliable: Bacon, Colby Jack, maple hickory-smoked bacon, and caramelized onion spread or honey mustard.
