Summer is full of backyard BBQs, pool parties, and impromptu dinners with friends. I love saying yes to those invitations, but I don’t love spending half the day in a hot kitchen trying to make something complicated.

A few weeks ago we had a Cub Scout potluck, and I was short on time. Instead of searching Pinterest for the perfect recipe, I grabbed a big watermelon and cut it into sticks.

If you’ve never tried watermelon sticks instead of cubes, trust me—they’re the way to go.

They’re easy for kids to grab, less messy than little cubes, and adults love them too. In fact, I think they were one of the first things to disappear that night!

That reminded me of something I think we all need to hear this time of year: simple is usually better.

Here are a few of my favorite ideas when I’m hosting or bringing something to share.

Watermelon Sticks

This is my go-to from now on.

They’re refreshing on a hot day, inexpensive, and take almost no effort. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and a crowd-pleaser for just about every age.

A Fresh Orzo Salad

One of my favorite dishes at that same potluck was an orzo salad loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing. It was bright, flavorful, and exactly the kind of food I crave in the summer.

I’m sharing the recipe below because it’s definitely one I’ll be making.

Spinach Orzo Salad With Feta, Tomatoes and a Basil Dressing | The Modern Proper

Skip the Homemade Dessert

Can we normalize not baking when it’s 95 degrees outside?

A carton of vanilla ice cream or Neapolitan ice cream with a few toppings makes such an easy dessert bar.

Set out sprinkles, chocolate syrup, caramel, crushed cookies, mini chocolate chips, whipped cream, cherries, fresh strawberries… literally whatever you want… and let everyone build their own sundae.

It’s fun, customizable, and you don’t have to heat up your kitchen.

Make a Lemonade Bar

If you’re hosting, this is another easy favorite.

Start with lemonade, then put out sliced strawberries, lemons, limes, raspberries, mint, or flavored syrups so everyone can customize their own drink.

For the adults, you can even have a few optional mixers on the side.

It’s simple, looks festive, and everyone enjoys creating their own combination.

Don’t Overthink It

The best summer gatherings aren’t remembered because someone spent eight hours cooking.

They’re remembered because people stayed a little longer, laughed a little louder, and enjoyed being together.

Whether you’re bringing watermelon sticks, a pasta salad, or picking up dessert from the grocery store on the way over, you’re contributing to the memories.

One thing I always appreciate is not having to think about getting myself ready at the last minute. Having my Color Street manicure already done means I can throw on a cute outfit, grab my dish, and head out the door feeling put together in just a few minutes.

Summer entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated.

Sometimes the easiest ideas end up being everyone’s favorite.