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Outdoor Entertaining Made Easy

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August 25, 2014
WHETHER IT’S A CASUAL POTLUCK OR A GOURMET OUTDOOR BASH, HERE’S HOW TO ENTERTAIN WITH STYLE—AND NO HASSLE.

KEEP THE MENU SIMPLE 

Classics such as The Original Potato Salad are always popular, taste impressive and are easy to prepare. 



MAKE THE FOOD IN ADVANCE 

Plan your menu so that at least 75% of the dishes can be prepared beforehand. You’ll want food that can be served cold or at room temperature. One good choice for a side dish: Pasta salad! For different riffs on the classic, try Hellmann’s® Creamy Balsamic Pasta Salad.

MIX UP SOME DRINKS 

Serve one themed cocktail to cut down on the expense and bother of setting up a full bar. Supplement with beer, wine, water and a special nonalcoholic option. Another idea: Freeze plain iced tea and add the cubes to lemonade. 



SET THE SCENE 

Bring nature to the table. For centerpieces, create bouquets of wildflowers, Queen Anne’s lace, ferns, vines or whatever grows in your area. Platters of colorful salads and brimming bowls of grilled corn or fresh strawberries also add to the décor. For an elegant touch, forego the plastic forks and paper plates and use real silverware and dishes, at least for the adults. 



ENTERTAIN THE KIDS 

Organize active games to keep young guests occupied. Some ideas: beach–ball volleyball for the little ones, Freeze Tag or Red Light, Green Light for older kids.  



SAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT 

Bake a batch of Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Brownie Bars ahead of time, freeze them, and defrost the morning of your party. For a second option, toss sliced peaches or berries with a little sugar and lemon juice.

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