Casual Summer Entertaining Tips (No Bake Edition)

Summer in the Valley of the Sun can pose a bit of a problem for those who love to entertain but don’t want to heat up their kitchen with a hot oven or stove. But Sphinx Date Co. has a fun challenge—hosting a casual no-bake dinner party or get-together. This can be a potluck-style affair with no rules—but one: no turning on the oven or stove! Can it be done? Sphinx Date Co. offers the following tips to help ensure it not only can be done but can be delicious!

Set a theme—Themes make everything more fun! Consider a salsa taste test, a “most creative things do to with nuts and dates” challenge or a cheeseboard extravaganza (more on this below...).

Invite the crew—Call on the summertime lovers and give them their quest: Bring a dish that is easy, simple and requires no cook time or heat up. For those going with a theme, make sure to give the details on this. 

Build the menu—A simple scroll through TikTok, Instagram or Pinterest can take food enthusiasts on a deep dive into the viral food hack of the moment. While it might be tough to keep up with this ever-evolving tour of trends, social media can be a great place to garner some inspiration. 

Remember those cheeseboards mentioned above? They are getting more beautiful and creative than ever—incorporating checkerboard-style fruits, cheeses and meats that are not only visually stunning but delicious and easy, too! Think watermelon and feta cubes, olives and mozzarella, and ricotta-stuffed dates paired with skewered salami and prosciutto. 

Of course, a classic pairing of fresh bread and some excellent cheese is always a winner. Be sure to set out some interesting spreads such as jams, honey or mustard to jazz up this duo. 

Hosts can also serve up a variety of salads that are light and incorporate produce of the season. Remember that greens are just one base idea for salads. However, other chopped veggies can be the star of the show, too. And fresh cheese, nuts, dried fruits and, dates and seeds can liven up a store-bought salad in no time! Remember, this party is supposed to be easy, fun and no-stress. 

Select local sips—Another challenge? Serving local-only sips! There is such a variety of wineries, distilleries and craft breweries throughout Arizona that this could be a theme of its own. Encourage guests to bring a bottle or growler of their favorite local sip—non-alcoholic ones count, too! 

Kick back and relax—It’s time for the party! Pour some drinks, encourage guests to help themselves to  a plate and then enjoy socializing with friends and loved ones without the stress of having to check on anything in the oven or on the stove. 

For any fresh, local provisions, from Arizona-grown nuts to local jams and honey and beyond, visit the Palm & Pantry or shop online anytime.