From graduations to weddings, pool parties or simple family get-togethers, summer is a time to enjoy and celebrate outdoors and in! Look no further than Whole Foods Market for the freshest ideas to make the most of the season.
Poolside – Go light and casual with mini wrap sandwiches, shrimp cocktail, guacamole opens in a new tab, fruit salsas or fresh fruit and veggie trays.Garden Party – Go fresh and elegant with crab cakes opens in a new tab, empanadas, mini quiches or tarts, cheese straws, goat cheese spreads, tomato crostini or antipasto platters.BBQ Bash – Go for hot appetizers right off the grill like bacon-wrapped shrimp opens in a new tab, chicken wings, tofu satay, quesadillas or stuffed jalapenos.
The Great Outdoors
For outdoor celebrations, be sure and protect your guests from too much sun by having mineral-based sun block that physically blocks the sun. And for those pesky uninvited guests such as bugs and mosquitoes, stock up on citronella candles and provide a few types of natural insect repellents (spray, lotion, fragrance free).
Bring Summer Indoors
Enjoy summer’s best when you’re inside, too, with potted herbs, cheerful sunflowers opens in a new tab and other seasonal blooms as centerpieces and décor.
Kudos for Kabobs
Fast-cooking and fun kabobs are an easy way to delight guests around the grill, whether it’s a group of four or 40. In addition to meats, seafood or tofu, surprise everyone by skewering up a wide variety of quick-cooking, flavor-packed small bites. Remember to oil the grill and to soak wooden or bamboo skewers at least 20 minutes, or for extra fun and flavor, thread foods onto rosemary sprigs instead of skewers!Skewer-friendly ideas:
cherry tomatoes
cubed summer squash
sweet or spicy peppers
olives
pineapple, mango or watermelon chunks
marshmallows
Try these favorite kabob recipes:
Seasonal Sippers
For events both large and small, check out our Summer Top 10 Wines opens in a new tab. Complement your wine selections with a variety of other refreshing, summer-inspired beverages:
Lemonade
Iced tea
Coconut water
Hefeweizen (wheat beer)
Margaritas
Mojitos
Make It a Tea Party
Trendy tea drinks are popping up everywhere this summer. Bartenders in the know are mixing iced tea, brewed from the finest loose tea leaves with everything from white wine to whiskey. Create your own festive tea cocktails at home using our premium, Whole Trade opens in a new tab™ and organic teas, adding flavor with natural fruit juices, freshly cut fruits and fresh herbs.
Fresh Gift Ideas
Select the perfect gift at Whole Foods Market for summer celebrations!
For hosts: summer fruit basket, seasonal flowers
For dads: collection of grilling marinades and seasonings
For gardeners: luxurious soaps and hand creams
For grads: cookbooks, kitchen gadgets
For everyone: Whole Foods Market® gift card
What are your favorite tips for easy summer celebrations?
