The Signature Summer Menu
Hosting Without Missing the Beach (or Pool)
If you’re anything like me, you want to soak up every minute of sunshine at the beach—but you also want to gather around the table with friends when the day winds down.
The tension? Hosting often means sacrificing your day to prep for the evening. But when you're in a beach town—or just in a summer state of mind—a full day in the kitchen isn’t just unappealing, it’s unrealistic.
The good news? A beautiful, memorable dinner doesn’t require hours of work. With the right menu and a few smart strategies, you can spend your day in the sun and still host like you planned all week.
Here’s what I’m doing this summer on Martha’s Vineyard—and how I’m keeping it low-lift but still thoughtful.
My Go-To Summer Menu
Starters
These all come together with very little prep—so little, in fact, that an early guest can easily jump in to help with finishing touches when they arrive. It’s a great way to ease into the evening and make everyone feel at home.
Bluefish pâté with crackers — a classic that always disappears fast.
A grazing board with hummus (elevated with a drizzle of good olive oil), sliced cucumbers, and herby pita chips.
And if you're feeling a little extra: chips and caviar. My favorite chip is Cape Cod—super crunchy and salty in the best way. Add a dollop of crème fraîche and a spoonful of caviar and it’s chef’s kiss.
Salads
Salads are perfect for summer because most of the work happens ahead of time. Prep your veggies and dressings earlier in the day, then toss or assemble just before guests arrive—fresh, crisp, and effortless.
Butter lettuce salad with fresh herbs from the garden, cucumbers, and a bright lemon vinaigrette.
Watermelon, mint, and feta with a squeeze of lime—it’s like summer in a bowl.
Pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and olive oil. Always better cold and easy to make hours ahead.
Mains
We like to cook on the grill—it keeps things simple, seasonal, and most importantly, it lets the cook engage with guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Most of the (minimal) prep happens early in the day, so by dinnertime, it’s just light grilling and lots of hanging.
Hot dogs are my go-to for kids, especially when friends are over. They want to eat fast and get back to running around barefoot—and honestly, who can blame them?
We love fish when we’re at the beach. A simple grilled white fish with a great sauce is all you need. My husband has perfected his chimichurri, and it’s a total game-changer. You can prep it in the morning—or even better, the day before—and it only gets better as it sits.
We also grill whatever veggies are in season—corn, asparagus, zucchini, or whatever’s fresh at the market. Just olive oil, salt, and a hot grill—that’s all it takes.
Desserts
I always recommend pie from Pie Chicks here on Martha’s Vineyard. It’s summery, nostalgic, and a local favorite—especially served with a scoop of good ice cream.
Popsicles for the kids—they’re easy, affordable, and keep little hands busy while adults linger at the table.
S’mores by the fire pit are a perfect way to end the evening if you have a fire going. No fancy equipment required, just good company and melted marshmallows.
Or simply ask someone to bring dessert! A box of cookies or brownies is always a crowd-pleaser and appreciated.
Drinks
Drinks should be simple, refreshing, and easy to serve so you can focus on enjoying the evening.
I like to have chilled rosé, white wine, or light spritzers with citrus and fresh herbs ready to pour—no fuss, just refreshment.
Iced tea or sparkling water with lime are perfect non-alcoholic options that everyone can enjoy.
Light cocktails are fun for summer nights, and having a signature cocktail that’s easy to batch and serve adds a special touch.
Tips to Make It All Easier
Ask for help. People are usually relieved when you say, “Can you bring a salad?” or “We’d love if you picked up dessert.”
Do a little in the morning. Chop herbs, make salad dressing, mix marinades—then spend the rest of your day at the beach.
Serve buffet-style. No need for a plated meal. Let people serve themselves and go back for seconds.
Use what you have. I often mix compostable plates with real glasses and napkins. No one cares if everything matches—especially outdoors.
Create an anchor. Whether it’s a linen on the table, a string of lights, or a good playlist—it sets the tone, even if everything else is super simple.
A Peek at Vineyard Life Right Now
This summer on Martha’s Vineyard, we’re hosting small groups by the grill or fire pit. The kids are running barefoot, the hot dogs are flying off the grill, and we’re rotating between beach time and backyard hangs. I’m keeping things flexible and fun—with fish from the market, herbs from the garden, and a pie in the fridge just in case friends drop by.
Summer hosting made simple! I’m sharing three of my go-to menus for the season—a backyard barbecue, a cozy family dinner, and a relaxed date night at home.
Want the full menus with all the details? They’re live now for paid subscribers—perfect to make your next gathering effortless and delicious.