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It looks like summer is finally here, and along with summer comes plenty of opportunities to host parties and invite people around to your home. When it comes to a party or another social event, the most important thing is the company. It doesn’t really matter where you are, as long as the company is great, you’re going to have a great time.
But while the people are the most important thing, it’s still a good idea to find ways to make everyone happy. People eat and drink, and as the host, it’s up to you to cater to that. Here are some ideas to help you level up that party food game so nobody goes hungry or thirsty.
Nibbles and Finger Food
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You can’t think about party food without considering classic finger foods. This is a quick, cheap, and easy way to feed a group of people. But it still requires some planning, and just because it’s simple, it doesn’t mean that it can’t be tasty.
One option to save time and money, and allow others to contribute is to ask people to bring something to the party. This means you’ll get a variety of options without putting too much strain on one person. However, you do have to make sure that you communicate with your guests and figure out who is bringing what to the party.
After all, nobody wants to discover that everyone brought soft drinks when you all sit down to eat. So, work out a plan of what you want and either ask people what they’re bringing or ask them to bring something specific. This way, everyone brings something different.
If you want to provide the finger food yourself, you can always find simple recipes for quick and fun snacks to feel a crowd. Or, if you’d rather spend money than time, you can explore your nearest grocery store for options that are either easy to put together or are practically ready to serve. The freezer section is especially good for this.
Simple Cocktails & Mocktails
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Of course, no party is complete without something to drink. Depending on your guests and your preferences, you might want to offer a selection of drinks. Cocktails are delicious and fun, and you have plenty of options to work with. It’s often a good idea to offer a small menu of a few cocktails, so you don’t need a fully stocked bar to serve everyone.
You can also get pre-mixed cocktails for an even quicker and easier option. Simply keep them in the fridge and pour into a glass when you’re ready to drink.
Some simple cocktails include mojitos, which are great for summer vibes. You also can’t lose with a basic spirit and mixer combo, like vodka and coke or rum and ginger ale. Or, if you want some classier options, try a martini.
Not everyone at your party might be up to drinking. If you are serving drinks, make sure they don’t feel left out by providing some basic mocktail options. Often, a sugar syrup and tonic or sparkling water combo is enough to provide that extra special feeling, especially if you serve them with a garnish like a lemon slice.
BBQ Season
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You never know how long summer will actually last before the weather turns again, so it’s time to take full advantage of BBQ season and get grilling. Barbecues can run from a simple weekday treat to a full event complete with loads of options.
You can’t go wrong with the classic sausage and burger combo, especially with some bread waiting for a quick burger or hot dog. But you can add some variety by grilling up some marinated skewers or even some fish along with the classic meats.
For something a little more special, consider a steak or a larger cut of meat. You can grill a whole chicken very successfully and break it up for a crowd. Ideally, the chicken should be brined or marinated so it stays juicy even on the harsh heat of the grill.
Or, if you have even more time to play with, consider smoking some meat. Smoked chicken is delicious, but smoked ribs or pulled pork is a great show-stopper for any barbecue.
Finally, don’t forget the sides. Grilled veggies are tasty and add some variety to the plate. You can also serve different kinds of salad, ranging from a classic greek salad to coleslaw, potato salad, or a mediterranean tabbouleh or couscous salad. You should also provide some sauces and dips to allow people to personalise their meal.
Summer Punch
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While cocktails, mocktails, and other simple drink options are great for parties, sometimes you want an even easier option for a crowd. The great thing about punches and other pitcher drinks is that people can pretty much serve themselves, allowing you to focus on other things. They also have that extra special touch.
You can’t mention punch without mentioning Pimms. It’s a classic British drink served with ice, lemonade, mint leaves, and fresh slices of fruit and cucumber. It’s tasty, refreshing, and a little bit alcoholic without being overpowering.
Another common summer punch option is sangria. This Spanish delight involves red wine, orange juice, and chopped fruits for a boozy and delicious option. Again, serve with ice to keep it cool. You can even add brandy for an extra hit of flavour.
Pina coladas and margaritas are great pitcher cocktails, and you can simply omit the alcohol for an easy mocktail option that’s still tasty. If you want to provide a classic mocktail, you can’t go wrong with the Shirley Temple. Simply add lime juice and grenadine to ginger ale. Serve with plenty of ice and a maraschino cherry for a finishing touch.
Coffee Breaks & Afternoon Tea
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If you want a more simple affair, a coffee break or afternoon tea is a wonderful idea to catch up with friends.
The first step is to make sure you provide great tea and coffee. Use a teapot for the tea and find a high quality tea so it tastes ever so slightly more special. If coffee is more your speed, consider breaking out the espresso machine for a proper cafe experience. You can serve espressos, americanos, or even cappuccinos or lattes.
If you do want to provide a bit of bubbly, sparkling wine wouldn’t go amiss when served with afternoon tea. Champagne is the posh option, but simply choose a bubbly that you like.
Finally, you can’t have afternoon tea or even a coffee break without some nibbles. Scones are a classic and delicious option, especially when served with clotted cream and jam. Or you can serve some other classic sweet bites like carrot cake or lemon drizzle cake. Afternoon tea is ideally dainty and easy to eat, so try to avoid huge slices.
Small sandwiches also go well with afternoon tea. Cucumber sandwiches might sound basic, but they’re surprisingly nice when served with cream cheese and a bit of black pepper. Or you can add some smoked salmon for extra flavour.
You can also consider serving other light bites like pork pies, small sausage rolls, and open sandwiches. Whether you make everything yourself or you buy your supplies, make sure it’s arranged in an attractive way for people to pick at and enjoy at their leisure. After all, the most important thing is the company and making sure you all have a great time.