Labor Day Inspiration

It was only fitting that the weather decided to warm up like typical summer, just as we head back to school, work, and Fall. Which is why as the last celebration of the summer, Labor Day, approaches this weekend, entertaining hassles should be kept to a minimum. The weekend should be spent relaxing and enjoying, even if you’re the host. A no-cook picnic style spread of various salads, crusty breads, seasonal fresh crudités and homemade dips. And dessert, chilled fruit like watermelon works perfectly, as does an ice cream cake. Here’s just a bit of inspiration for a hassle free Labor Day, or any warm weather gathering.

Setup a casual setting with a long table and seating on throws atop the grass. I would just love to spend my Labor Day weekend, one of the last of summer like this enchanting dinner party underneath twinkling lights. {image above via}

Prep, and chill as much as you can the days before. Make a large batch of a simple cocktail, like summer fruit mojitos the night prior. Serve up an array of fresh tomatoes on ice, along with olives and radishes with dip.

Make a variety of easy salads with produce that is overflowing at the farmers market, and whatever fresh ingredients you might have already. These salad starters can be made beforehand, and then just tossed with greens and dressing the day of. Highlight special produce, like figs in this salad with cantaloupe.

Blend as much as you can, make a beet gazpacho or homemade jalapeño honey hummus.
Offer meat friendly options, even without cooking by creating a smorgasbord of charcuterie meats, like prosciutto and pate, or smoked salmon and cheeses for non-meat eaters, along with plenty of crusty bread, good olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Because there may not be enough time in the days to enjoy them, s’mores are a must to make, especially with white chocolate and jam. And of course a frozen yogurt cake makes every summer get together complete.

For patriotic inspiration see here and here |More outdoor entertaining inspiration see here and here