The first, and some might argue most important, step to any good get together is a stop at the beverage station, of course. Wine and beer are classic choices, but why not switch it up and impress your guests with a house-made cocktail? We’ve got you covered. Below are three of our favourite summer-inspired drinks, sure to convince your friends of your mixology skills.
Moscow Mule
A vibrant mix of lime, vodka and spicy ginger beer is sure to kick off the night on the right foot!
https://cookieandkate.com/best-moscow-mule-recipe/
Make it tonight:
Get prepared and pick up your own Moscow Mule Mug today!
Sparkling Strawberry Watermelon Limeade
Talk about refreshing, this drink showcases the best of summer fruit and is sure to garner you some respect as the party bartender. Either keep this virgin, or add in Tequila, Vodka, or Gin for those looking to add a little umph to their evening.
https://thefirstmess.com/2019/06/22/strawberry-watermelon-limeade-recipe/
Make it tonight:
Add some flair to your bar rail with these Classic Bar Blenders by Cuisinart!
https://www.iqliving.com/products/cuisinart-classic-bar-blender?_pos=4&_sid=6a12ba5ce&_ss=r
Red Wine Sangria
The ultimate crowd-pleaser, make sure to add a big batch of this Sangria to your party table.
https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/red-wine-sangria
Make it tonight:
The perfect pour. This drink dispenser is the perfect hands off approach to entertaining! Let guests pour their own all night long.
https://www.iqliving.com/products/artland-drink-dispenser?_pos=1&_sid=17ab58fc8&_ss=r
Now that drinks are taken care of, let’s move on to the dining portion of the evening! Something to nibble on to kickstart the evening. Here are three of our favourite simple and light appetizers, ideal for the busy host you are.
Greek Feta Dip
Creamy. Tangy. Bursting with flavour. This sure-to-please whipped feta dip is perfect to accompany warm pita, chips, or veggies!
https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a50968/greek-feta-dip-recipe/
Make it tonight:
Ensure the lightest dip possible with this 5-speed hand mixer at your fingertips!
Prosciutto Caprese Kabobs
Fun and flavourful, everyone will love these vibrant little skewers loaded with fresh summer tomatoes, creamy balls of mozzarella, salty prosciutto, and a tangy balsamic drizzle. What’s not to love?
https://thetoastedpinenut.com/caprese-kabobs-proscuitto/
Make it tonight:
These unique little bamboo skewers are the ideal way to impress your guests.
https://www.iqliving.com/products/emf-flap-bamboo-skewers?_pos=1&_sid=1b90c74fa&_ss=r
Lemongrass Shrimp
Perfectly grilled shrimp to impress your guests!
https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-grass-shrimp/10053/
Make it tonight:
Keep shrimp and veggies from falling through the grill with this handy stainless steel grill grid!
Let’s move onto the main event! Here are three options for something more substantial to keep everyone going!
Flank Steak Tacos
Tacos are a deceptively low effort meal to feed a crowd! Marinate and grill your meat, set all of your toppings out and let everyone build their own, leaving you all night to mingle with guests at your leisure.
https://www.wellplated.com/flank-steak-tacos/
Make it tonight:
Warm one big batch of tortillas and keep them warm and soft while they last!
https://www.iqliving.com/products/prepara-tortilla-warmer?_pos=8&_sid=e70a3eda1&_ss=r
Balsamic Portobello Burgers w/Caramalized Onions
Filling and packed with flavour, throw these portobello burgers into a searing hot cast iron pan on the grill and woah everyone with these beautifully vibrant burgers!
https://minimalistbaker.com/balsamic-portobello-burgers-with-caramelized-onions-garlic-aioli/
Make it tonight:
Cast iron will last you a lifetime! Throw these handy pans directly on the barbeque for your next backyard summer grill out.
https://www.iqliving.com/products/lodge-chef-collection-cast-iron-skillet?src=recomatic
Chicken Legs Under a Brick with Chile Oil
A unique way to cook everyone’s favourite protein!
https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/chicken-legs-under-a-brick-with-chile-oil
Make it tonight:
Use this press to get the crispiest grilled chicken in the neighborhood.
There you go. You’re now the hostess with the mostest. We hope you and your guests love these summery recipes! Happy entertaining!