One of the simplest joys of summer is the ability to enjoy a meal outdoors. If you’ve got the urge to entertain, do so stress-free and with minimal planning – keep it simple, all you need is good company, delicious food, and the right setting.

• Buffet and bar tables make serving easy. Jazz them up with reusable tablecloths to add some decorative flair.
• Use the grill for everything. From meats to veggies, the grill is an easy no-mess station for cooking all your summer fare, right down to fruits such as peaches and pineapple.
• Think “less-mess”. Serve easy to eat foods such as chips and dip, barbeque ribs, sliders and skewered meats and vegetables.
• Potluck dinner? Why not! Encourage guests to bring a dish. You’ll have a great spread, without having to do all the cooking!
• Make-ahead recipes. Crunched for time? Go for “make-ahead” items such as salads, baked potatoes, and chicken, which can be baked in the oven and finished off on the grill a few minutes before serving.

Serve this sensational summer meal at your next gathering – Grilled Tequila-Lime Chicken and Grilled Eggplant-Tomato Stacks