NewsBite

How to throw the ultimate summer dinner party

It’s time to scrub up on your hosting skills as the season of dinner parties arrives.

A picturesque outdoor dinner party.
A picturesque outdoor dinner party.

There comes a point in everybody’s life that affirms whether or not they are cut out to host a dinner party.

Usually, the time arises when you move into your first home and the trusty bowl of chips and home-brand dip will no longer meet the expectations of your friends. But most recently, the thought of throwing the first dinner party post-lockdown is enough to send some into a spin. For many the responsibility comes naturally, as if they’ve been practising for this moment their entire lives. Maybe they grew up watching their parents host dinner parties every chance they got. Maybe they’re trained chefs. Who knows? But for others, it takes a whole lot of convincing before they offer themselves up as the sacrificial lamb.

Nevertheless, taking the leap is one way of proving you’ve emerged out of lockdown a bigger and better dinner party host than ever. It may require a few pep-talks in the mirror before the guests arrive and copious amounts of planning, but in the end, there are ways to throw a dinner party that won’t end in a panic attack.

Below, we’ve created a guide to ensure your first summer dinner party out of lockdown is faultless, and one you can enjoy as well.

Step 1. Plan your menu

A stressed hostess is never a good sign. In order to avoid becoming overwhelmed, don’t sweat the small stuff. Obsessing over the details will distract you from your guests and scupper your ability of being the best host you can be. The number of guests is also important to consider. Keep the numbers small to avoid having to over-cater and meet more dietary demands.

Luckily, hosting a dinner party during the summer time is all about simplicity especially when it comes to the food. Choose a menu where the majority of items can be prepped and cooked during the day. Grilled proteins like chicken or lamb paired with seasonal vegetables and fresh, crunchy salads will not only be easy to prepare, but give your guests enough variety. Finish off the menu with a crowd-pleaser, like homemade ice cream.

Cheesecake ice cream. Picture: Guy Bailey
Cheesecake ice cream. Picture: Guy Bailey
Roast rack of lamb with potato and asparagus salad. Picture: Guy Bailey
Roast rack of lamb with potato and asparagus salad. Picture: Guy Bailey

Step 2. Pick a time and date

There’s an expectation during the summer that dinner parties will be held outdoors, so pick a time in the evening when the temperature has cooled down from the otherwise scorching summer heat.

Step 3. Table setting

Hosting the dinner in the backyard will also help set the scene for the table setting. Textural linen place mats and napkins in a neutral colour matched with seasonal flowers in the centre of the table will make the dining experience stunning while still being totally relaxed.

Magical outdoor setting. Picture: Kristy Noble
Magical outdoor setting. Picture: Kristy Noble

Step 4. Drinks

When it comes to drinks, keep it light and fresh. Avoid cocktails because there’s a high chance one of your guests will have something to say about the spirit you selected. Instead, stick to wines, like a coastal white or a red that can be served chilled.

Step 5. Accept help

Don’t fall into the trap of doing everything yourself. While making sure you are still being attentive to your guests, if they offer you a hand don’t feel obliged to decline it. More often than not, getting a little help will mean you can spend more time with your guests while still having everything under control. Remember: a little help can go a long way.

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/life/food-drink/how-to-throw-the-ultimate-summer-dinner-party/news-story/cac4e07d5ad6bcf0386e599b7b91ef7b