A Fresh Take On Summer Entertaining

WORDS:: Chyka Keebaugh

PHOTOS:: Lisa Atkinson

Summer is just around the corner, are you as excited as I am?

One thing I love the most about these warmer days and nights, after months of hot, comforting foods, summer brings with it the need to eat lighter meals full of the crunchier crunches of fresh fruit and vegetables; and it feels as though with this my body breathes a sigh of relief!  We all know that eating better makes us feel better, so let's get to it.

Entertaining is at its peak in the summertime, we all want to make the most of the extra daylight and sun so eating outside is a no-brainer. I find that this is the best time of the year to entertain and I have come up with a little salad idea that not only looks fantastic, but it can be prepared earlier so you can enjoy more time with your family and friends.

Setting up a salad bar could not be easier. It’s all about the presentation and by creating a bar this way you invite your guests to DIY their salads, creating their versions of the perfect summer plate. By offering a selection of greens, nuts, cheeses, roasted veggies and meats, your guests can build, dress and garnish as they please. 

Simply find some open bench space in your home, and with a collection of matching plates, lay them out in a grid format like a fun hotel buffet and go crazy filling your plates and bowls. You can group foods in sections or just go with the flow, creating an inviting salad bar where everyone is guaranteed to get the salad of their dreams!