Peter’s Guide to Easy Summer Entertaining
Well, it’s here! Summer has arrived and with it those glorious weekends that you wish could stretch from Thursday to Monday—and, the halcyon promise of dining outdoors with a table scattered with local flowers, the hum of the grill off in the distance, platters laden with local produce kissed by only salt and olive oil, and of course the splash of rosé in glasses. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Entertaining al fresco is the best, but can also cause stress if not planned out right. I’ve simplified things down to 4 easy steps so your summer entertaining is a breeze—I mean you want to enjoy the evening too, right?
Summer FOOD
Keep it easy! Shop locally and in-season—the better the food the less you have to do with it. Make as much as you can ahead so that things can simply be transfered to a serving platter and garnished. Plan dishes that can be served at room temperature. Take some help from the store—there’s no shame in a few prepared sides (or dessert) that come from your local market—a squeeze of lemon juice and a glug of olive oil and some fresh herbs is usually all it takes to brighten up a store-bought dish. Speaking of dessert, when your friends ask ‘can I bring anything’ tell them to bring dessert. See? One less thing to worry about.
Tomato Salad with Chili Crisp, Prosciutto and Burrata
Heirloom Tomato Salad with Garlicky Labneh, Preserved Lemon and Za’atar Sourdough
Shaved Zucchini Panzanella Salad with Ricotta Salata and Herbs
Herby Prosciutto and Melon Salad
Big Easy Tortellini Salad with Creamy Pesto and Butterbeans
Grilled Tuna Tonnato Leggero
Summer TABLE
There’s nothing better than timeless and classic with a seasonal twist. Classic white dishes are year-round, but with a pop of a linen or striped napkin or tablecloth, you’ve got instant summer vibes. And forget stemmed glasses (a pain to wash, am I right?), use tumblers for a super casual chill (and less accident-prone) vibe. Of course if you’re by the pool, keep ‘em non-glass. For flowers? Again, simple is best—a few low vases of field flowers or a row of bud vases down the center of a table and you’re done. Keep your arrangements around shoulder height (when sitting) —you want to be able to see your guests across the table!
Mateo Paddle Serving Board
Lithuanian Linen Runner
Pillivuyt Beaded Coupe Salad Plates
London Clear Hurricane Candle Holders
Pillivuyt Plisse Porcelain Oval Platter
French Linen Plaid Napkins
Marta Drinking Glasses
Vintage Champagne Flatware Set
Summer DRINKS
A summer bar can be done in advance too! Think about one batch signature cocktail made in advance and served in large pitchers—just add ice! That and a DIY bar with rose, sparkling water and a few basics (vodka, tequila, soda), and you’re golden.
Summer VIBE
Turn on the tunes, dim the lights and let the fun begin! A mix of summer hits, old favorites and background chill tunes are all you need. For lighting, candlelight on the table (use hurricane candle holders), the charm of string lights and you’re done!
