Amy's Blog

Having company over this summer? I get it! It can be stressful! I love to entertain but, I’m all about doing it the easy way! That means making things ahead of time and keeping it simple. Think 3 or 4 dishes, not 15! I was recently on WGN-TV in Chicago sharing my perfect summer dinner. You can do it! You can! I can help!

Start with a dip or two to get the party going, like my rockin’ 3 ingredient Fruit Dip served with fresh berries and pineapple or my Dill Dip served with crisp, colorful fresh veggies. Both dips can be made a few days ahead. Speaking of making things ahead of time, that’s why I love coleslaw! It just gets better after a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Everybody will love my Door County Cherry Slaw with dried cherries and almonds in a honey lemon dressing. Yum!

For the main course, do a Shrimp Boil. Just one big pot and it all goes in there! Shrimp, sausage, potatoes, corn and onions. There’s nothing better! For dessert in the summer you gotta do homemade ice cream! It’s so fun! My Dad’s Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream is the bomb and so simple! You need to make it! You really do!

Did I talk you into hosting a summer party? Let me know how it goes! Take lots of pictures and cook up some great summer memories! What’s your idea of the perfect summer dinner? Please share your favorite summer recipes! I’d love to feature them on my website!