Summer lovers, it’s last call! It’s the final chance to savor all that summer has to offer—at least in terms of weather and food. Gather your gang and take advantage of the dwindling days of summer with a late summer dinner soiree. Here are some dinner theme ideas to create a delicious and memorable alfresco party.
Mediterranean Mix
A large batch of grilled veggies like eggplant, bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and tomatoes go beautifully with grilled chicken or steak, hummus, pita bread, and a fresh garden salad.
Salsa Celebration
Turn that tomato harvest into a delicious salsa spread. Make a hot and spicy salsa, a fruit-forward salsa, and a roasted garlic variety. Make a big batch of margaritas or sangria and serve make-your-own-tacos fixings.
Gazpacho Galore
Chilled cucumber screams summer, and it’s a great way to use a surplus of cucumbers from the garden. Serve this tasty cold soup with a loaf of crusty bread and an easy side dish like bean and quinoa salad, or light tea sandwiches.
Basil Bonanza
A great way to use up garden basil is to make a big batch of pesto. Serve it mixed into pasta or as a spread for an appetizer board. A basil-garnished cocktail would be a fun addition.
Ice Cream Social
Skip supper and host a late-evening ice cream social. Make your own ice cream with fresh garden fruits like peaches, plums, cantaloupe, and more. Serve with chopped fresh mint and basil. Brew fresh coffee or tea for an after-ice cream finish.
Low Country Boil
Include fresh corn in the mix with a fun Southern-style low country boil. New potatoes, smoked sausage, shrimp, and corn are the star ingredients in the traditional dish. Add crab legs if you want to be fully authentic.
Perfectly Peachy
Summer peaches are sweet and super versatile for dinner, drinks, and desserts. Start with a peach and prosciutto appetizer, then toss fresh peaches into an arugula salad with goat cheese and red onion. End with grilled peaches served with vanilla ice cream or a simple peach crisp.
