Everybody out of the pool! It’s time to eat. I love to cook and entertain, but I’m also a big fan of big flavor without a lot of work. Plan your pool party or backyard bash around these recipes. You’ll have plenty of time to kick back and enjoy the compliments.
It’s an appetizer. It’s a salad. It’s a side dish. It’s delicious on a stick with chunks of feta, kalamata olives, English cucumbers and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and a kiss of fresh cracked black pepper.
Quick Pickled Dilly Green Beans
What a good idea. A zesty finger food that whips up in minutes and keeps in the refrigerator for up to a week. Does double duty as a great Bloody Mary garnish, too.
California Grilled Veggie Sandwich
Sandwiches are crowd pleasers. This vegetarian version has the added virtue of serving as a main course or, cut into smaller bites as an appetizer.
Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Never tried pizza on the grill? Refrigerator pizza dough makes it easy. Use a store-bought rotisserie chicken and eliminate another step.
Fiesta Rice Salad with Lime Dressing
A colorful side that’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish for vegetarian guests. Use pre-packaged frozen brown rice for quick, fool-proof assembly.
Avocado Chickpea Salad with Red Wine & Lemon Juice Vinaigrette
It’s pretty, yummy and ready in 10 minutes. What else do you need to know?!
Sparkling White Peach Sangria
When you make drinks by the pitcher you don’t spend the party tending bar. As always, you can eliminate the alcohol and have a refreshing, kid-friendly beverage.
Mojito Slush
Blend lime juice, fresh mint and rum for a cool green grown-up sno-cone in a glass.
Chocolate Trifle
Layer brownies, chocolate pudding and Cool Whip in a big bowl. Buy chunky brownies from the bakery and skip the cooking altogether.
Mixed Berry Hobo Packs with Grilled Pound Cake
This elegant dessert is super simple to make and you don’t have to go near an oven. Use any combination of fresh berries and serve with a side of good vanilla ice cream.
