Happy Friday, Gang! Summer Fridays are made for slowing down and savoring life’s little pleasures, and nothing sets the mood quite like dining al fresco. One of my favorite ways to unwind at the end of a long week is right in the backyard: Oscar and Ollie by my side, Kelly and I catching up over a chilled spritz, and something fresh and flavorful on the table. This week’s menu is light, herby, and perfect for relaxed summer entertaining, with a pasta salad that doubles as a main and a cocktail that feels like a breath of fresh air in a glass. Of course, we’re dressing the part too—easy, breezy summer looks that keep things chic and cool.
Here’s What You’ll Find in This Post:
- Beth’s go-to shirtdress that’s structured yet breathable
- Kelly’s denim mini moment that feels fun but polished
- The ultimate Rosé Spritz for warm-weather sipping
- A Green Goddess Pasta Salad that’s picnic-ready and packed with flavor
Beth’s Look: A Summer Shirtdress with Structure
I love a shirtdress that does it all—and this one from UNTUCKit checks every box. The Stretch Cotton Sleeveless Cordelia Shirtdress brings a tailored feel while still offering room to breathe in the summer heat. The crisp white cotton is ideal for garden parties, casual lunches, or even running errands in style.
I paired it with gold accessories for a little daytime glamour: the Alexis Bittar Gold Collar Necklace makes a quiet statement, and the enameled bamboo bangle adds a summer feel. On my feet, the Amelia Thong Sandals are sleek, easy to walk in, and a warm-weather staple.
Kelly’s Look: Denim, but Make It Summer
When it comes to relaxed summer entertaining, I love a dress that can handle it all—from preparing the food to playing fetch with Oscar. This Denim Scoopneck Mini Dress from Madewell is a one-and-done outfit that feels casual but pulled together. The scoop neckline adds a touch of femininity, while the clean silhouette keeps it from feeling too fussy. And because this is a regular size dress, it’s less mini and more wearable! I am wearing a regular size XS.
For shoes, I went with the Sam Edelman Pauleena Espadrille Sandals—the slight wedge gives just enough lift without sacrificing comfort. This look works for everything from impromptu backyard happy hours to outdoor brunches with friends. If you love the idea of a denim dress as much as I do, check out another denim dress I recently featured on the blog in: The Denim Trend You Haven’t Tried Yet, and Why It Works From Head to Toe.
Relaxed Summer Entertaining: The Recipes
Sips to Start: Rosé Spritz
There’s something about a chilled glass of rosé that just says summer, and this week’s Rosé Spritz might be my favorite variation yet. A splash of elderflower liqueur adds a floral note that’s both unexpected and elegant, while sparkling rosé keeps it crisp and refreshing. Garnish with a mint leaf and serve over ice for a drink that’s as pretty as it is delicious. It’s the kind of cocktail that practically begs to be enjoyed outdoors—perfect for relaxed summer entertaining with friends.
- 2 oz vodka
- 2 oz Pomegranate Juice
- 2 oz dry sparkling wine or rosé
- 1 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur more or less to taste
- Squeeze of lemon juice to taste
- ice
- Mint leaf for garnish
Combine Vodka, pomegranate juice, sparkling rosé, St. Germain, and lemon juice in a stirring glass and add ice to fill halfway. Stir for 10 seconds, strain into coupe glasses, garnish, and serve.
Fresh & Flavorful: Pasta Salad
This isn’t your average pasta salad. Creamy, herby, and packed with greens, our Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a summer showstopper. The dressing—made with Greek yogurt, mayo, fresh herbs, lemon, and just a hint of anchovy paste—is bright, zippy, and full of depth. We toss it with tender penne, crisp red onion, and leafy greens like arugula and spinach for texture and color. A final flourish of chives, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of parmesan takes it from side dish to star. It’s light enough for warm days but hearty enough to feel satisfying. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet night on the patio, this dish is made for relaxed summer entertaining.
- 8 oz of small penne pasta – or other small twisty pasta shape
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup parsley leaves – packed
- ¼ cup basil leaves – packed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½-1 red onion – thinly sliced
- 2 cups arugula – packed
- 1 cup baby spinach – packed
- 1 bunch chives – 2 tablespoons once sliced, freshly sliced
- 1-2 avocados – sliced or cubed
- freshly grated parmesan cheese – for garnish
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta, and cook according to package instructions (al dente). Drain and rinse the pasta in cold water, allowing it to cool completely.
Meanwhile, blend the mayonnaise, yogurt, parsley, basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, anchovy paste, salt, and pepper in a small blender, food processor, or with an immersion blender.
Toss the cooled pasta, onion, and 3/4 of the dressing together in a large salad bowl. Just before serving, toss in the spinach, arugula, and chives and serve in shallow salad bowls or plates topped with sliced avocado.
Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and sprinkle with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, fresh basil, and freshly grated parmesan cheese for garnish if desired.
Cheers to Relaxed Summer Entertaining!
Relaxed summer entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple dress, a fresh cocktail, and something delicious from the garden are often all you need to make it feel special. Whether you’re hosting guests or just enjoying a quiet Friday evening outside, we hope today’s post inspires you to create your own al fresco moment. Cheers to easy summer style—from the kitchen to the patio! Oscar, Ollie, Kelly, and I wish you all a beautiful summer weekend!
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