Under the pergola

It’s summertime and the entertaining is easy. The long days and warm temperatures make us naturally more relaxed.  Eating outside makes slightly messier foods, like lobster, mussels and corn-on-the-cob exceptionally enjoyable.

Choose durable tableware, sturdy glasses, and plain white napkins that can stand some vigorous cleanup in the washing machine afterwards.  Then dig in and enjoy.

Outdoor summer table

The glasses are Old Williamsburg Deep Blue by the Imperial Glass Company, Ohio and are from Replacements Inc.

I found these Ceramica Assunto dishes in Positano, Italy.  The company ships worldwide and couldn’t be more helpful or accommodating.  They offer a wide range of patterns and shapes. Exceptionally well-priced, they are colourful and cheerful.

Mussels in white wine

Casual outdoor meal

The generously sized pasta bowls cry out to be filled with Steamed Mussels with Wine, Garlic and Parsley  for the first course.

Lobster fit for a king

A variety of serving dishes hold salt & pepper, sour cream, chives, baked potatoes, buttered corn-on-the-cob and steamed green beans drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. Peterson’s Fish Market provided the steamed, cracked lobsters ready for pick up at the appointed hour.  Just bring home and serve.