Dining Alfresco

I like to eat all of my meals outdoors during the summer months - sans the bugs and creepy crawlies. And this beautiful table is inspiration enough to create an inviting space for a party or just because. Don't be afraid to mix tag sale finds with items you might have kicking around the house. This is where old and new really can come together in style.

Cafe string lights and galvanized beverage contaner from Pottery Barn.

Wicker and rope tray and candlesticks inspired by 19th century English pottery from Restoration Hardware.

The perfect little side dish...

My Pasta Salad

2 boxes of tri-color rotini

3/4 of a jar roasted red peppers, chopped

3-4 tomatoes (I use red and yellow), diced

1 can of black olives, sliced or chopped

1/2 cup of Newman's Own Olive Oil & Vinegar dressing

1 tsp. kosher salt

Black pepper to taste

Prepare pasta and then submerge in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. All of the ingredients are to taste, but start with smaller amounts because you can always add more. I like to use less dressing and flavor the pasta with the juice of the tomatoes and peppers instead.

Top image via House Beautiful