Brooke’s Party Tips and Favorite Dishes for 4th of July

Happy 4th Of July weekend everyone!

It’s crazy that most of us need a holiday to celebrate summer and good friends.
We have been so busy in the most wonderful way. Dinner parties, beach parties and pool parties every day. We haven’t left Malibu, just home hopping every day. We are 6 in our family and most of our friends have lots of kids, so you can imagine the scene when 3 families get together. Summer for me is all about time shared together. My kids’ favorite part is staying up late, sleeping in and hanging with new and old friends.

Yesterday we spent a gorgeous afternoon at a friend’s Malibu home. She said “We live in paradise and I never feel motivated to leave my home. I have everything I need here. All it takes is the willingness to shut off your phone and invite your loved ones over. That’s the best vacation of my life.” She was so right. So this weekend is all about good friends, yummy food and too many drinks.

One of the tips I picked up from Bacardi is to organize a self-service bar. With this you have more time to enjoy your guests and less time spent serving! Just prepare a table with your glasses, ice, fruit garnishes and pre-made cocktails. Make a wine bar, liquor bar, whatever your pleasure is this will save you lots of time.

Here is one of my favorite summer salads that I am bringing to a beach barbecue today.

All you need is:
6 endives, 2 cans of corn, 3 avocados, olive oil, Dijon mustard, shallots, and tarragon vinegar.
Slice and wash the endives, mix with the corn and chopped avocados.
In a separate bowl mix 1 tsp of Dijon mustard, ½ cup olive oil, ¼ cup tarragon vinegar and ½ finely chopped shallots.
Toss salad with the dressing, salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
If you are preparing this early before your guests arrive, toss the dressing in when you are ready to serve.

This dressing is my secret recipe and I use it for all my salads.
I also love to serve frozen grapes. It’s a crunchy, healthy and a perfect summer snack.
Another one of my party favorites is my famous baked Brie! Everyone loves this dish!

Here’s what a party at my house looks like!

I hope everyone has an amazing holiday. Be Safe!