This Summer’s Best Outdoor Menu

By Marion McGahey

The grill and a little prep work are the secrets to these 16 easy, delicious party recipes. 

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Outdoor Party Secrets

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns
There are three secrets to a great outdoor dinner party. The first is the grill. The second is the grill. The third? You guessed it: the grill. To make the easy, delicious recipes in this gallery, all you really need are those “three” secrets―and, of course, a little prep work. (But only a little. We promise.) So gather your friends and family, follow our tips and tricks, and try this vacation-friendly menu that will let you laze in the sun while keeping all your guests happy. Oh, and if they ask you how you did it? Just tell them it’s your little secret.
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Lemonade Iced Tea

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns

Recipe: Lemonade Iced Tea

Lemonade Iced-Tea is a fun, thirst-quenching update on two classic Southern favorites.

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Set a Pretty Table

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns
Set a simple and pretty table with natural bamboo plates topped with plastic patterned ones. Inexpensive dish towels as napkins complete the look.
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Easy Silverware Bundles

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns
Wrap your silverware in simple rubber bands to add both convenience and a pop of color.

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Budget Summer Flowers

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns
When it comes to decorating, you don’t have to spend a fortune. Just pick up summer flowers (only a few bucks), and place in an old colander.

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Peppery Grilled Okra With Lemon-Basil Dipping Sauce

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns

Start the party off with Peppery Grilled Okra With Lemon-Basil Dipping Sauce. It is a tastier and healthier alternative to the standard chips and dip.

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Flank Steak Sandwiches With Blue Cheese

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns

Serve a gourmet sandwich that will certainly impress your guests. Flank Steak Sandwiches With Blue Cheese are loaded with grilled onions, peppers, and arugula.

 

Related Recipes: Super Sandwiches

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Double Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns

Double Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are a delicious kid-friendly alternative to this holiday menu.

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Baked Bean Crostinis

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns

Recipe: Baked Bean Crostinis

Baked Bean Crostinis are a fun twist on an old stand-by. Feel free to load up on toppings; we love pickled jalapeo, bacon, and queso fresco.

Related Recipes: Our Best Barbecue Sides

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Double Peanut Butter Candy Bites With Granola

Photo Jennifer Davick / Styling Buffy Hargett / Food Styling Marian Cooper Cairns

Peanut Butter-Caramel Candy Bites With Colorful Candies are so easy to make. Our time-saving secret: refrigerated cookie dough.

 

Related Recipes: All Time Best Fruit Cobblers

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