A Simple Summer Party Menu That Makes Hosting Feel Easy
One of my favorite hosting tips has nothing to do with decorations.
It's the menu.
Over the years, I've learned that trying to make everything yourself is the fastest way to turn a fun party into a stressful one. Instead, I keep one simple rule: the host provides the main event, and guests help fill the table.
Here's my favorite formula.
Start with One Great Main Dish
At our house, Steve is usually behind the smoker.
A perfectly smoked brisket becomes the centerpiece of the meal, and honestly, it's all people are talking about anyway. Whether your signature is brisket, pulled pork, burgers, grilled chicken, or tacos, choose one thing you love making and let it shine.
You don't need five different entrées.
Just one really good one.
Have a Few Go-To Appetizers
I always keep a few tried-and-true appetizers in rotation—the kind people ask for every time.
A few favorites:
Dirty Martini Dip - Linked HERE
Jalapeño Corn Dip - Linked HERE
My Feta & Olive Showstopper Appetizer (it looks like you spent hours on it, but it's incredibly easy) - Linked HERE
They're simple to prepare ahead of time, keep guests happy while everyone arrives, and look beautiful on the table. I also like to provide at least one sweet treat. In this case, summer appropriate Key Lime Cookies - Linked HERE.
Let Guests Bring the Rest
When someone inevitably asks, "What can I bring?" don't say, "Nothing!"
Instead, give them something specific.
I usually say:
"Bring your favorite side dish or appetizer to share!"
It's easy for your guests, takes pressure off you, and creates a table full of different flavors and family favorites. People love sharing recipes they enjoy, and it often becomes a conversation starter.
Why This Works
This approach keeps hosting enjoyable instead of exhausting.
You focus on the parts you love, your guests get to contribute, and everyone leaves feeling like they were part of creating the experience.
That's what memorable gatherings are really about.
Not perfectly matching serving dishes.
Not making twenty recipes.
Just good food, good people, and a table full of favorites.
The Chosen House Summer Party Formula
✔️ One signature meat or main dish
✔️ Two or three make-ahead appetizers
✔️ Guests bring their favorite side or appetizer
✔️ Sweet tea, lemonade, or a signature cocktail
✔️ Dessert (homemade or picked up on the way—no judgment!)
Hosting doesn't have to be complicated to be beautiful.
Sometimes all it takes is one great brisket, a few crowd-favorite dips, and a backyard full of people you love.