The weather may be on the opposite side of comfortable, but it’s still perfect recipes for summer entertainment. It’s an excellent time to kick back and enjoy the company of good friends and family.
Stuck on what to serve your guests in the heat? Here’s a sumptuous, three-course no-cook meal plan that your guests will think is cool. (It will definitely keep you cool)
The starter: Prawn lettuce wraps
No one likes to slave over the stove on a scorching hot day. That’s why this simple one-bowl prawn and papaya starter works perfectly for hot summers. You will only need lettuce, papaya, prawns, sugar, and chillis. To give it an extra zing, you will need one lime and some sweet chilli sauce.
All you have to do is mix all the ingredients and scoop onto some lettuce leaves. Then sprinkle with spring onion to garnish: elegant and straightforward.
Your guest will love the explosion of flavours in the mouth, and it won’t take you more than a few minutes to make.
The main: Chicken and Pea salad
Next, you can wow your guests with this yummy chicken salad with peas and greens. It’s a colourful and inviting salad that’s also very filling and healthy. What’s more, it’s easy to make; you’ll feel like a 5-star chef in under 30 mins.
How to make it
The first step is to make your dressing. Mix the oil, orange juice, and fresh chilli sauce. Next, combine the deboned chicken, snow peas, salad leaves, nectarine wedges, red onion, and pine nuts. When it all comes together, drizzle the dressing over your salad and toss. Then garnish with fresh chives to bring out that wow factor- and you’re all set.
You can use store-bought chicken if you don’t already have pre-cooked frozen cuts in your freezer. Make sure to wash and dry all your veggies thoroughly before you make your salad. Double-check to ensure that the chicken is deboned well; you wouldn’t want any choking mishaps after such a great show.
Dessert: Blackberry fool
For dessert, this blackberry fool will make the perfect ending to a great lunch. The rich berry flavour and smooth, creamy texture will stand out, and it’s super easy to make.
All you need to do is purée blackberry fruit mixed with sugar in a food processor. Combine the purée with sour cream. Then in a separate bowl, whip some evaporated milk until it holds firm. Finally, fold the milk into the blackberry puree mixture and chill. It’s best served chilled, garnished with blackberries.
Beverage: Strawberry and lime cooler
What’s a hot summer day without a cool refreshing drink? Make this non-alcoholic strawberry beverage for your guests to stay hydrated.
How to make it
To start, blend strawberries, sugar, lime juice, salt, mint, and cold water in a blender. You can add ginger if you like. Then strain the liquid and throw away all the solid particles.
To make your juice look more elegant, thinly slice some strawberries and use them to garnish before you serve. Add some ice to keep it chilled.
In conclusion
Don’t shy away from entertaining because you can’t stand the heat in the kitchen. These no-cook meals will wow your guests while keeping things cool. Whether you’re serving a meal for adults or the kids are invited too, the menu is sure to be a hit with everyone. The only worry is that they will want to come back soon!
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