Back when I lived in Los Angeles, I entertained constantly. And then, somewhere along the way, I stopped being all that interested in hosting parties; it was just so stressful. And then I moved out to the Bay Area and realized:
Oh. I totally love entertaining. I just need it to be all chilled-out and California-style.
The thing about summertime outdoor entertaining is that it’s just so simple, if you let it be. All you have to do is keep your refrigerator stocked with a few key items – fresh fruit, potatoes, hamburger meat, chips and salsa, and a cold bottle or three of Pinot Grigio – and you’re good.
Guests stop by unexpectedly? Oh hello, there! May I get you a nice prosciutto and mozzarella crostini, and perhaps a lovely glass of peach sangria? (Seriously, this happened the other weekend: five friends were in the area and stopped in to say hi, and within minutes I had everything you see here assembled from the random stuff we had sitting in our refrigerator and on the table. It’s just about getting a little improvisational, and working with what you have.) Because really: if you have food, sangria, and sun, you’re completely set for an afternoon of doing next-to-nothing (which, let’s be honest, is the very best kind of afternoon).
The Wine:
Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio is just the most perfect summertime wine – it’s lovely and refreshing as is, but is also the perfect pick for peach sangria (recipe below). Pictured here is the limited-edition bottle Zac Posen designed for the brand – and if you get your hands on one I absolutely insist you hold onto it and repurpose as a vase or water carafe or what have you, because it’s so pretty.
The Food:
- Peach, Mozzarella and Prosciutto Crostini
- All-American Berries
- Tangy Potato Salad [link]
- Retro Pea Salad
This post was created in connection with Ramshackle Glam’s partnership with Ecco Domani.
