Hot weather and time off are the perfect ingredients to throw impromptu parties. It is so fun to entertain in the summer, but let's face it, we want to enjoy the party as much as we want to host it. To check out a super simple party dish, look no further than our new video One-Skillet Chili Bake. Tortilla chips, beef, beans, and cheese create an incredibly fast appetizer or entree.

We have been to some amazing summer celebrations this year and hosted some as well. I have come up with a list of 10 Simple Summer Entertaining Essentials. They are perfect for at home BBQ's or beach side potluck. You could be poolside, in the mountains ,or at the beach, the template is the same.....carefree, simple, easy preparations.

1) Aqua Fresca: Greet guests with a fresh & fruity cocktail. Choose one or more of your favorite fruits (figure about 2 cups of fruit per pitcher.) Purée fruit in a blender, strain out the juices and add them to a 2 qt pitcher filled with ice water. You can sweeten to taste with your favorite sweetener if desired. Aqua Fresca is great for kids or adults. You can have some of your favorite spirits available for the adults to spike their Fresca!

2) Fresh Veggie Crudite & Dip: Your guests will most likely arrive hungry so be sure to have cut veggies and a few dips at the ready. Dips that have good staying power in the heat: Hummus, salsa and guacamole are a few all time favorites.

3) Grill it! Most folks love to fire up the grill in the summer. Quickly marinate some chicken breast in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic salt, fresh thyme & cracked black pepper. Can be kept in marinade from 1 hour to overnight. Grill over medium high heat for about 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through. This chicken can be served as is or shredded & put into a fresh green salad or pasta salad. Grill up some burgers for the meat eaters too!

4) Grill some sides: While you have the grill hot and at the ready go ahead and make some grilled veggies too. Toss some chopped veggies (bell peppers, red onion, broccoli, green beans, asparagus, etc) in some flavored olive oil with a dash of salt & pepper. Heat them in a grill basket until slightly charred and cooked through, toss frequently to cook evenly.

5) Buns, Breads and Pasta: Have a basket of various whole grain buns and breads available for people to make a sandwich with their burger or chicken breast. Some guests might prefer a pasta salad. This can usually be made the day before the party.

6) Condiments: Be sure to have some ketchup, pickles, onion, hot sauce and cheese slices available for guests to top their creations.

7) Fresh Salad: Every party needs a fresh salad with loads of greens and chopped veggies to satisfy folks that want to keep things light or for vegetarians. Have a few salad dressings out so people can choose their favorite. I usually have a fruity vinaigrette, a sesame/soy based dressing and a creamy dressing available. A fruity olive oil and red wine vinegar is always a great option too.

8) Eco Friendly: If you entertain a lot it might make sense to have a collection or two of heavy duty, dishwasher safe melamine drinkware, dish sets and flatware. Instead of using "disposable" plates, you can save money and reduce waste over time with re-usable table settings.

9) Clean up: Have a tub of icy cold washcloths available to guests to freshen up before the meal. It'll help cool them down and make them feel like they have been to a spa.

10) Ice Pops: Have homemade or your favorite store bought ice pops available throughout the event. Kids will love them and adults will too. They are a refreshing and nice light snack. -Marla Meridith

**Marla is a energetic mom of two little kids. She is the creator of the recipe & lifestyle blog Family Fresh Cooking. She lives a high energy lifestyle filled with great food, family, friends, exercise, and coffee.