Nothing says summer quite like long, lazy afternoons spent outdoors with great food, chilled drinks and even better company.
But if your set-up involves the same old cheeseboard and a chilly bin of beers, it might be time to give your hosting skills a glow-up. Fresh flavours and clever tools turn a backyard get-together into something special.
From wood-fired feasts to frozen cocktails, these summer entertaining essentials will help you host a gathering with confidence.
The menu
Every great party starts with great food. But nobody wants to chain themselves to the barbecue or shut themselves away in the kitchen. The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven, $799, makes outdoor cooking simple and impressive, with eight versatile cooking modes to master everything from woodfired pizzas to slow-smoked meats.
It keeps the heat and smells outside, while the chef stays right where the action is. Set up a DIY pizza station with bowls of toppings so guests can create their own masterpieces, or embrace your inner pitmaster with tender, smoky pulled pork and charred vegetables.
Of course, no feast is complete without dessert, and summer calls for ice cream. The Ninja Swirl by Creami, $599.99, turns frozen fruit and ingredients into silky smooth ice cream and sorbet in minutes, perfect for a make-your-own sundae bar.
Go for a creamy creation or a one-ingredient sorbet, then lay out a selection of toppings for an interactive dessert station, perfect for kids and the young at heart.
The refreshments
We’re raising the bar when it comes to beverage selection this summer. Impress your guests with a signature frozen cocktail made with the Ninja Slushi Professional Frozen Drink Maker, $599.99.
With no ice or blending required, it whips up bar-worthy margaritas, pina coladas or daiquiris at the touch of a button. Take your presentation up a notch with a mix of colourful or vintage glassware and a selection of garnishes, from citrus twists to edible blooms.
The atmosphere
Don’t be put off entertaining on those roasting-hot days, just make sure your guests stay cool and comfortable. Investing in an outdoor umbrella or pergola for shade is always a good idea and, for those days when you need a little extra wind power, a misting fan is a game-changer.
The Shark FlexBreeze HydroGo Misting Portable Fan, $249.99, sits easily on an outdoor table.
With a built-in misting tank, it provides a light, refreshing mist and a gentle cooling breeze.
With five power settings, up to 20 metres of portable cooling power, 12-hour battery life and an easy-carry handle, you can take cooling comfort wherever the party goes.
For more innovative appliances designed to make your summer hosting a breeze, head to ninjakitchen.co.nz and sharkclean.co.nz
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