The sizzling days of summer are here. And that means it’s time to celebrate outside with family and friends. Impress your guests by serving up delicious drinks and fabulous food. These 10 items will make your summer shindig a smash. Now turn on the music, light some candles, and set the scene for your fabulous alfresco fete. —Lauren Barth

Hand-Shaken Daiquiri

Bring a touch of the tropics to your backyard bash with a delicious Bacardi daiquiri. Just pour it straight from the bottle and enjoy the ultimate summer sipper. It’s refreshingly effortless. And your guests will think you’re a hip hostess and a master mixologist.

Piña Colada

Throwing an island-inspired pool party? Don’t forget a bottle of Bacardi piña colada. The light, sweet taste of coconut will have your guests feeling like they’re lounging on a beautiful white-sand beach. And because it’s made with coconut water, not cream, there’s no added fat. So you can rock that itty-bitty bikini without a moment’s hesitation.

Finger Foods

Before you break out the main course, serve a few easy apps. How about tortilla chips with freshly made salsa and lime-infused guacamole or hummus with pita bread wedges. And vegetable crudités with ranch dip is always a hit.

Salads and Sides

On hot days and balmy nights, hearty, heavy dishes can sound unappealing. So make sure you have the ingredients for a simple, satisfying salad. It takes mere minutes to toss lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese in a light vinaigrette dressing, and the results are always delicious. Pasta salad, potato salad, and coleslaw also make great additions to an alfresco dinner.

All the Barbecue Fixin’s

Hamburgers? Check. Hotdogs? Check. Chicken? Check. Steaks? Check. Before you fire up the grill, make sure you have all the ingredients for a barbecue bash. Ketchup, mustard, and other tasty condiments are also essential. And don’t forget to buy a few vegetarian-friendly options too.

Corn on the Cob

Nothing says summer like corn on the cob. Steamed, boiled, or grilled on the barbie, it makes the perfect side dish for your picnic, pool party, beach bash, or cookout.

Shellfish

How about throwing a good old-fashioned clambake this summer? Your guests will be delighted at the sight of shrimp, lobster, oysters, and clams. And their tummies will be pretty pleased as well. Just don’t forget fresh lemon wedges and tartar and cocktail sauces.

Watermelon

On a sweltering summer day or steamy night, there’s nothing like a wedge of refreshing watermelon to keep you (and your guests) feeling content and cool.

Ice Cream

Creating a fun make-your-own sundae bar will have guests of all ages screaming for ice cream. Put out a few flavors and lots of tasty toppings. But don’t let it melt!

Bottled Waters and Other Drinks

In the heat of summer, it’s important to stay hydrated. Fill a cooler with bottles of water to ensure everyone has easy access to ice-cold H₂0. Also add a few nonalcoholic options like lemonade and ice tea for thirsty underage attendees.