Summer Time Light Menu for an Afternoon Event

During the hot summer, there is nothing better than finding alternatives to cool us down. If you are hosting an event, you might want to serve a lighter, more refreshing menu to make the heat more bearable. Serving a “light side” menu doesn’t mean your guests won’t fill up. They will love the freshness of your menu options and be thankful to enjoy summer warmth without that overstuffed feeling that doesn’t combine with heat.

Here are three fresh summer salad options to keep your guests interested and comfortable!

1. Cooled Orzo Salad with a Spicy Buttermilk Dressing

1 uncooked Orzo (cook according to directions, drain and set aside), 1 frozen whole kernel corn, 12 Cherry tomatoes halved, 3 Green onions sliced, 1 15 oz. can prepared black beans (drained). Mix dressing separately, then drizzle over Orzo and allow to soak for 30 minutes before serving.

Dressing: 1/4 C. low-fat buttermilk, 2 Tbs. Cilantro, 1/2 tsp each black pepper chili, pepper sea salt, and 3 Tbs. fresh lime juice. Top salad with fresh avocado wedges.

2. Strawberry – Tomato Toss

2 C. fresh summer strawberries, 2 Cups halved heirloom tomatoes in a variety of colors, 1 Tsp. lemon zest, 1 Tbs, olive oil, and 1 Tsp balsamic vinegar. Toss and chill.

3. Hoppin’ John – This is a salad that is normally served warm, but it can be easily altered for a lighter, cooler feel to adding to your summer outdoor event.

In a bowl, combine: 1 medium-sized sweet onion sliced in 1/2 inch pieces, 1 Tbs. olive oil, 4 C. cooked and drained fresh field peas, 1 1/2 C cooked basmati rice, 2 C. Heirloom tomatoes cut into wedges, 1/2 C chopped assorted herbs, 2 C. mixed salad greens. Allow soaking an hour before serving.

Colorado Party Rentals has everything you need for any kind of party.

Let Colorado Party Rentals take care of everything to keep your guests comfortable in the summer heat!

As you plan your summer light menu options, let us help you plan your strategy to keep your guests cool and comfortable in the summer heat! We have every size tent you will need to keep the sun from ruining your event. Come to the showroom and let us show you our options for outdoor tent rentals. Whether large or small, we have something just right for your occasion.