5 Tips for Hosting a Stress-Free Meal This Summer

Summer is well and truly here: Wimbledon has swung into action, and the forecast promises hot weather for days (and nights) on end. Whether you’re planning to host a BBQ, a slow weekend lunch, or a spread of picky bits while watching the tennis, summer is the perfect time to bring everyone together.

When the temperature soars, the last thing you want to be doing is rushing around organising an elaborate dinner. With a few easy steps, you can put together an appetising meal and create a stylish yet laid-back environment that makes your friends and family feel welcome.

Here are five tips on how to host a summer meal that’s fuss-free and enjoyable for everyone (including you).

1. Keep the menu simple

You don’t need to design an extensive five-course menu that takes all day to cook to impress your guests. Nail stress-free summer hosting by choosing dishes that are easy to prepare and won’t leave you stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is socialising.

Great food options include: sharing platters, grilled vegetables, and seasonal salads, which can be light or more substantial, like tuna Niçoise, potato salad, or pasta salad. If you want to include a main dish to accompany your sides, go for something that can be slow-roasted or prepared quickly in advance. These dishes can be served at the centre of the dining table or buffet-style for an informal setup that looks appealing and allows everyone to serve themselves.

Ask your guests about dietary requirements and preferences ahead of time so you can cater for them. This doesn't have to mean making extra dishes – sometimes, it’s as simple as keeping the dressing separate, prioritising veggie options, or skipping the nuts. 

For even less stress, host a potluck dinner, where each guest brings a dish they've prepared at home to share. This is a fun way to create a connection between people and guarantees that everyone will have at least one dish they can eat. Create a group chat or offer suggestions in advance to avoid ending up with six quiches and five tubs of coleslaw.

2. Best served chilled

Whether you’re providing drinks or having a BYO, ensure you have clear fridge space to chill beverages and plenty of ice ready to keep things cool.

Preparing a carafe or jug of a refreshing drink, such as cloudy lemonade, fresh mint tea, or Sangria, is a low-effort, welcoming gesture and adds a summery feel to your table. Have some fresh mint and slices of lemon, lime, and cucumber on a plate nearby so people can garnish their glasses as they like.

3. Set the scene

Even if you don’t have the optimal space to entertain guests at home, you can transform your dining room, living room, or outdoor area into an inviting retreat.

Summer tablescaping doesn’t have to involve going all out and buying new tableware and decor. Small details can have a big impact. Focus on the basics that you already own or will use again, like light, floaty table linens in summery shades and a mix of ceramics and colourful glassware to add character (this also means you don’t have to worry about owning enough matching dinner sets). For sit-down meals, use placemats to define each setting and cloth napkins which look elegant and can be reused for your daily dinners. Add a vase of flowers, foliage, or even a pot plant to introduce some greenery to your table and embrace this year’s Biophilic design trend. 

Think about what lighting options you have available. For indoor setups, the top light can often be too harsh, so use side lamps and candlesticks to create a softer, more calming atmosphere. Dining al fresco? Add tealights, fairy lights, or solar-powered lanterns so your guests can continue to enjoy the conversation (and help themselves to seconds and thirds) long after the sun goes down.

4. Prepare for all types of weather

We're all well versed in the unpredictability of UK weather, so have a backup plan if the sunshine or welcome breeze doesn't turn up to the party. A parasol or sunshade doubles as a shelter from showers, so you’re not rushing inside at the first sign of drizzle.

If you’re blessed with a warm evening, stock up on mosquito repellent so your guests don’t become the meal. Citronella candles and certain plants, such as rosemary and lavender, can help keep pesky insects at bay. Even hot days can cool off quickly at night, so have a few throws handy to keep everyone comfy while sitting outside.

If you’re hosting inside, place one or two fans around the room to create a breeze on muggy days when opening the windows isn’t enough.

5. Plan ahead

Prepare as much as possible in advance so you can relax when your friends and family arrive. Set the table earlier in the day, pre-chill drinks, and get dishes ready to go. Make sure you have the right number of spots for everyone to sit comfortably. You may have enough dining chairs or benches, but if not, an ottoman, armchair, or stool can serve as a useful stand-in that will still look stylish.

Don’t forget to select a playlist for some background buzz to set the tone of the gathering – impromptu sing-alongs are optional. You can easily delegate this job to a friend, so there’s less for you to manage (and you can blame them for any questionable music choices).

Above all, enjoy yourself. A late dish, mismatched cutlery, or a slightly overdone side won’t matter – your guests are there to share food in a relaxed atmosphere. Imperfections are part of the charm and often the source of the best stories later.