Summer time is just around the corner so I can’t wait to start planning for those outside parties, BBQ’s, and late evening alfresco dinners. It’s time to get out of the house and enjoy your backyard!

I love the outdoors and being able to connect with the beauty of nature that the Lord has created is a blessing. The softness of the blue sky as it fades into the quiet evening and catching those magnificent starry evenings make a great backdrop for entertaining. Although Texas can be extremely hot during the summertime just planning ahead can ensure that your event or outing is going to be perfect.

Last year I invested in a large misting fan for my pergola and it has made all the difference on those hot summer nights!! You can also pick up some personal misting fans for your guests to use and make them part of the tablescapes design. These are just a few tips for cooling down during the summer that can help you beat the heat! Your guests will thank you!

For decorating your outdoor table, you can look at the Tablescapes section of my cookbook “The Art of Entertaining”. I’d recommend a design similar to the one found on pages 108 and 109! However, feel free to gather additional ideas from the other tablescape designs in the section. Creating your own tablescape design can be fun as well. Just remember to try different colors and patterns with your dishes and napkins along with using different styles and sizes of glassware, centerpieces of fresh summer fruits or flowers, candleholders, etc. Set your own ambiance that welcomes your guests to a relaxing oasis.

Now for the menu! When planning your menu, think about dishes that you can prepare in advance so you have more time to spend with your guests. As far as what to serve, that is always the question when entertaining at home. It’s summer time so think of dishes that are quick, easy, light, and refreshing.

My Avocado Feta Crack Dip is always a big hit to get guests started. It's light, cool, refreshing and just delicious!! As your guests start to arrive you will need some show stopping appetizers like Watermelon Pizza – yes I did say watermelon pizza! It's an appetizer that requires one hand so guests can mingle and sip on their drinks as well. Also making a bowl of my Pimento Cheese spread to finish off the appetizers with assorted crackers and veggies will make sure your guests stay satisfied until it’s time for the main entrees.

Now for the main dishes that work well for a cookout if you're grilling or any alfresco dining party. My Summer Garden Pasta is always a big hit with the sweet summer tomatoes, fresh basil and garlic. It can be served at room temp and made ahead. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is also a great main dish for the grill. The chicken is marinated overnight in lemon juice, garlic, fresh rosemary and thyme and ready to grill off the next day. When considering your sides try some Roasted Corn w/ herb & garlic butter along with my Wedge Salad w/ Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing and some killer Baked Pinto Beans!

During the summer when drinking outdoors I recommend something that is cool and refreshing like a Watermelon Margarita or White Peach Sangria and plan to have plenty of ice cold water on hand!! You can also go with some mocktails that are cool and refreshing like Rosemary Citrus Spritz and or Sleedlip Palmona. Also, keeping the kids hydrated while out in the heat playing is critical – eliminate the high sugar drinks and replace them with something low in sugar and refreshing like Watermelon Lemonade or frozen treats that you can make ahead of time.

Enjoy the summer and look for more great recipes and table design coming from Andrea Ambiances!!!

**All food recipes in bold are available in the cookbook!

Chef Andrea

Summertime Entertaining

The Simple Things