Entertaining

Entertaining

Ina Garten's Best Summer Entertaining Recipes

Updated on June 8, 2018 by Jenny Potter

Oh, those summer nights! They were made for eating, drinking and relishing in the warm weather as long as you can keep the mosquitoes at bay. Make the most of our too-short season by inviting over some friends, firing up the grill and enjoying a fruity cocktail. Ina Garten will help you host in style with these easy recipes that ensure entertaining is both effortless and delicious.

  • Ina Garten’s Hummus
     
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    Ina Garten’s Hummus

    <p>Whip up a batch of this dead-easy dip from the Barefoot Contessa’s kitchen to enjoy with crunchy veggies or veggie chips during the week. It’s as simple as pulse and serve!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-hummus/20291/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Hummus</a></strong></p>
  • Zucchini and Goat Cheese Tart
     
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    Zucchini and Goat Cheese Tart

    <p>Summer squash shines in this sharable dish that layers paper-thin zucchini over tangy lemon and thyme flavoured goat cheese. Pair with a rosé for an elegant vegetarian appetizer.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/recipe/zucchini-and-goat-cheese-tart/20059/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Zucchini and Goat Cheese Tart</a></strong></p>
  • Summer Fruit Crostata
     
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    Summer Fruit Crostata

    <p>Use your food processor to create a speedy dough that can be rolled out and filled with your favourite summer fruit. The result is a rustic, yet beautiful dessert that’s easier than pie!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/summer-fruit-crostata/16046/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Summer Fruit Crostata</a></strong></p>
  • Rose Sangria
     
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    Rose Sangria

    <p>This rose-based sangria from the Barefoot Contessa combines sweet pomegranate juice with Grand Marnier and brandy. Finish with fresh strawberries, raspberries and sliced plums for a heavenly summer sipper.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rose-sangria/19906/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Rose Sangria</a></strong></p>
  • Ina Garten's Lemon Bars
     
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    Ina Garten's Lemon Bars

    <p>When party invitations start rolling in, you'll want to whip up a batch of the Barefoot Contessa's scrumptious lemon bars to bring along.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-lemon-bars/16052/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Lemon Bars</a></strong></p>
  • Tomato Carpaccio
     
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    Tomato Carpaccio

    <p>Showcase those beautiful fresh-from-the-garden tomatoes with a bright and cheery salad. Filled with fleur de sel and Parmesan, be sure to serve lots of crusty bread to sop up this homemade lemony-garlic dressing.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/recipe/tomato-carpaccio/20061/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Tomato Carpaccio</a></strong></p>
  • Barbecue Ribs
     
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    Barbecue Ribs

    <p>Ina Garten delivers with these classic grilled ribs that are perfect for hot summer nights in the backyard. The zesty, zippy marinade recipe doubles as barbecue sauce, so you know these ribs will be full of flavour.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/barbecued-ribs/18305/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten’s Barbecue Ribs</strong></a></p>
  • Guacamole Bean Salad
     
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    Guacamole Bean Salad

    <p>All the delicious components of guacamole are packed into this nutritious and delicious salad that brings hearty canned black beans to the mix. <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/guacamole-salad/15425/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Guacamole Bean Salad</strong></a></p>
  • Tequila Lime Chicken
     
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    Tequila Lime Chicken

    <p>Add flavour and tenderize your chicken by letting it soak in this margarita mixture overnight. The result is a juicy bird infused with just the right amount of acid. Winner, winner, chicken dinner!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tequila-lime-chicken/20210/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Tequila Lime Chicken</a></strong></p>
  • Broccoli with Bow Ties and Peas
     
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    Broccoli with Bow Ties and Peas

    <p>One-pot pasta has been popular with home cooks for years as it’s quick, healthy, and can turn any season’s produce into a show-stopping masterpiece. Get your spring greens in with verdant broccoli and sweet, tender peas.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/broccoli-with-bow-ties-and-peas/16078/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Broccoli with Bow Ties and Peas</strong></a></p>
  • Roasted Eggplant Spread
     
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    Roasted Eggplant Spread

    <p>The sweet, meaty flavour of eggplant is intensified through the roasting process and finished off with a kick of cayenne pepper and lemon. Serve alongside pieces of warm pita for an irresistible snack that will have everyone going back for seconds.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-eggplant-spread/16050/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Roasted Eggplant Spread</a></strong></p>
  • Plum Cake Tatin
     
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    Plum Cake Tatin

    <p>The forgotten fruit of summer, plums are perfect for baking, infusing their sweet juices in whatever you add them to. Ina knows how to make the most of these sweet gems, with this easy upside-down dessert.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/plum-cake-tatin/16465/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Plum Cake Tatin</a></strong></p>
  • Fruit Salad with Limoncello
     
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    Fruit Salad with Limoncello

    <p>Fancy enough for a dinner party and simple enough for a weeknight, this delicious limencello-infused fruit salad is topped with a dollop of homemade lemon yogurt and a sprig of fresh mint.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/fruit-salad-with-limoncello/16317/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Fruit Salad with Limoncello</strong></a></p>
  • Crunchy Noodle Salad
     
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    Crunchy Noodle Salad

    <p>Ina makes her noodle salad to serve a crowd, so you can have it on hand for quick meals a few days after it’s prepared. Instead of hard-to-find soba noodles, quick-cooking spaghetti gives this recipe the same look without compromising the taste or texture — besides, it’s all about that peanut sauce!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crunchy-noodle-salad/16826/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Crunchy Noodle Salad</strong></a></p>
  • Ina Garten’s Zucchini Gratin
     
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    Ina Garten’s Zucchini Gratin

    <p>Turn a bumper crop of garden zucchinis into a creamy, veggie-filled casserole. Thinly sliced zucchini are cooked in butter until tender, topped with Gruyère and crispy bread crumbs, then baked until bubbly.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-zucchini-gratin/15432/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Zucchini Gratin</a></strong></p>
  • Watermelon Mojitos
     
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    Watermelon Mojitos

    <p>If you're throwing a backyard barbecue or summertime get-together, Ina Garten's watermelon mojitos are sure to satisfy a crowd.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/watermelon-mojitos/16319/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Watermelon Mojitos</strong></a></p>
  • Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
     
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    Orzo with Roasted Vegetables

    <p>Ina Garten is known for her flavourful dishes, and this orzo and veggie medley is no exception. Her choice of roasted vegetables include eggplant and peppers.</p> <p>Get the recipe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/orzo-with-roasted-vegetables/15392/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Orzo with Roasted Vegetables</strong></a></p>
  • Pasta Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing
     
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    Pasta Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing

    <p>Cold pasta salad is mixed with grape tomatoes, scallions, ricotta and a zesty lemon-pesto dressing.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pasta-salad-with-lemon-pesto-dressing/16059/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Pasta Salad with Lemon-Pesto Dressing</strong></a></p>
  • Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad
     
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    Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad

    <p>Sweet watermelon pairs perfectly with salty feta and peppery arugula in this bright and fresh salad.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/arugula-watermelon-and-feta-salad/16075/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad</strong></a></p>
  • Tomato and Goat Cheese Tarts
     
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    Tomato and Goat Cheese Tarts

    <p>These aromatic, cheesy tarts make an appetizing and vegetarian-friendly dish.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tomato-and-goat-cheese-tarts/15363/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Tomato and Goat Cheese Tarts</strong></a></p>
  • Fresh Peach Cake
     
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    Fresh Peach Cake

    <p>Moist and tender vanilla cake is laced with juicy peaches and pecans. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate summer treat.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/fresh-peach-cake/16460/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Fresh Peach Cake</strong></a></p>
  • Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
     
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    Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

    <p>Spring’s most rewarding duo, fresh, sweet strawberries and luscious tart rhubarb are topped with a quick oat crumble and a dollop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing treat, perfect for dessert or afternoon tea.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/strawberry-rhubarb-crisp/16329/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp</a></strong></p>
  • Grilled Tuna Steaks
     
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    Grilled Tuna Steaks

    <p>Don’t mess with a good thing. Which is why we like this no-fuss, no-muss seared tuna from Ina Garten. Simply season, sear and voila! A restaurant-worthy main.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-tuna-steaks/16318/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Grilled Tuna Steaks</a></strong></p>
  • Peach and Raspberry Crisp
     
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    Peach and Raspberry Crisp

    <p>Make friends and win over guests with a bubbly dessert that's the perfect mix of summer fruit and a crispy, oat-full topping.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/peach-and-raspberry-crisp/16462/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Peach and Raspberry Crisp</a></strong></p>
  • Pineapple Margaritas
     
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    Pineapple Margaritas

    <p>If you're in need of some serious sunshine, this citrusy drink has your name on it. Fresh lime juice, white tequila, orange liqueur and pineapple juice are shaken and served ice cold for a party-worthy beverage.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pineapple-margarita/16330/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten’s Pineapple Margaritas</strong></a></p>
  • Tequila Citrus Chicken
     
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    Tequila Citrus Chicken

    <p>Jalapeño, chili powder and garlic are blended with tequila to glaze this juicy main with a crispy, golden finish. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tequila-citrus-chicken/15330/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Tequila Citrus Chicken</a></strong></p>
  • Sliders
     
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    Sliders

    <p>These aren’t your backyard barbecue burgers. Fresh thyme, grated Gruyère and baby arugula make these bite-sized burgers an elegant hors d'oeuvre.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sliders/15372/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Sliders</strong></a></p>
  • Tuscan Lemon Chicken
     
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    Tuscan Lemon Chicken

    <p>Fresh squeezed lemon juice and zest, fragrant rosemary, garlic and a splash of olive oil fills this juicy spatchcock chicken with true Tuscan flavour. Grill on a coal barbecue for a hint of smoky flavour.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tuscan-lemon-chicken/15371/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten’s Tuscan Lemon Chicken</strong></a></p>
  • Swordfish with Tomatoes and Capers
     
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    Swordfish with Tomatoes and Capers

    <p>Grilled salmon fans will love the mild flavour of grilled swordfish. Pair it with juicy, tomato and white wine sauce for a super-simple summer dinner.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/swordfish-with-tomatoes-and-capers/16326/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Swordfish with Tomatoes and Capers</a></strong></p>
  • Grilled Pineapple
     
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    Grilled Pineapple

    <p>Turn your favourite summer fruit into a delectable grilled snack. Your barbecue caramelizes the sugars in the fruit, intensifying the flavours, while delivering a touch of smoke.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-pineapple/16321/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Grilled Pineapple</a></strong></p>
  • Roasted Shrimp Cocktail
     
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    Roasted Shrimp Cocktail

    <p><em>The Barefoot Contessa</em>’s Ina Garten puts a roasty spin on the classic shrimp cocktail to arrive at a flavourful take on an iconic appetizer.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-shrimp-cocktail/17328/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Roasted Shrimp Cocktail</strong></a></p>
  • Roasted Salmon Tacos
     
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    Roasted Salmon Tacos

    <p>Give taco night a healthy makeover with succulent, roasted salmon, creamy avocado and a refreshing cabbage slaw. This impressive meal comes together surprisingly quickly and is bursting with fresh flavours.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-salmon-tacos/20405/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Roasted Salmon Tacos</a></strong></p>
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