Recipes & Entertaining

Too Hot to Cook? Make these 3 Delicious Appetizers (no oven required)!


Summertime is perfect for parties. Longer daylight hours, warmer weather, and the relaxed vibe of the season makes this such a prime time for soirées and get togethers. But that warm weather we all love so much, can definitely put a damper on entertaining. Especially when the temperatures make it too hot to cook or even be in the kitchen. In this blog post, I share 3 delicious appetizer recipes, where no oven is required, guaranteed to be the hit of your next summer get together.


1) Proscuitto Wrapped Melon

A light and fruity Prosecco or dry Rose pair well with the flavors in this appetizer.

Proscuitto is an Italian dry-cured ham that is usually sliced thin and served uncooked. The contrast of salty ham, sweet cantaloupe, and savory basil, makes each bite of this appetizer delicious and complex.


2) Caprese Skewers

A fruity wine with high acidity, like Sauvignon Blanc, tastes best with this dish.

Caprese salad is a popular dish in restaurants and homes alike. Cherry tomatoes are in season in late June so try to serve these healthy nutrient dense superfoods at their flavor peak. I like to use the small mozzarella balls (called bocconcini or ciliegine and these w1s`can be found in the cheese section at your grocery store’s deli) so all the caprese skewers have a uniform shape.


3) Marinated Vegetable Salad

A Sauvignon Blanc, or the harder to find French wine Picpoul, balance the tartness of the balsamic dressing.

This hearty appetizer is a crowd favorite. Summer vegetables at the peak of flavor mixed with tangy balsamic dressing give this dish a crunch and taste that is incredible. Serve this yummy vegetable salad with pita crackers and your guests will be eating up every last bite.


These three delicious happy hour appetizers are tasty on their own but make for a hearty, filling, and beautiful entertaining board when served all together. Cheers to summer, parties, and gourmet food with no cooking required.

It’s almost too pretty to eat!