(Vegan-friendly) Summer Soiree Ideas

The summer is quickly slipping away but there's still some time left to host a perfect little get-together while the days are still relatively long and the weather is still warm. This is actually my favorite part of summer to gather my friends for a night of fellowship because the nights have the perfect amount of chill in the air. While I was searching for recipes and ideas for a dog-days-get-together, a Google link led me here. Yes, to my own blog. Who would have thought? After doing a little bit of digging way back into the archives, I was able to pick out a few of my favorite menu ideas for a party. Let's break it down:

1. Raspberry Vodka Lemonade: This drink is a good one to start out with. It's so refreshing and fun and will get loosen up any of your more "awkward" guests. (If you're ever been to a get-together, you know that awkward people are a real threat. I would know. I'm usually that person. Or, I would be if I ever got invited to parties.) This drink is so versatile that it could be paired with any kind of appetizer. May I suggest Brussels Sprouts-artichoke-zucchini kabobs? Light, fresh, and so easy to make. Brush with some garlic and olive oil and toss 'em on the grill. 

2. Szechuan "Pad Thai": This will forever be one of my favorite meals and a crowd-pleaser for sure. (If you're not a vegetarian/vegan and you're freaked out by meat substitutes, chicken would make a good alternative.)

3. Grilled Fruit Kabobs: Who doesn't like fruit? Who doesn't like things off of the grill? I like using watermelon, pineapple and mango but peaches, pears, and strawberries work really well too. Guests can even have fun creating their own combinations... if they're into that kinda thing.

4. Fleur de Lillet Martini: As a lot of you may already know, this is my favorite cocktail creation. Fresh and perfect for a nice little after-dinner treat.

5. Banana Ice Cream: Just... banana ice cream. Need I say more? Make it interesting and include extra toppings so guests can make their own "sundaes." To keep vegan, carob chips, granola, and bing cherries are excellent options. If you're not, you have a little more freedom and can probably think of your own toppings.

I love the simplicity of all of these menu items because they're easy to create and, as the host, they won't take precious time away from catching up with friends. Bonus: They're all so delicious that I doubt anybody would miss the meat and animal by-products. Everyone wins! What do you guys think?

xo,

e.m.