You don’t realize this if you happen to be apartment hunting in December, but homebound outdoor space in a city like ours is really really important. If you are one of the lucky few who have a backyard, deck, or terrace, for the sake of your friends, you better be making good use of it this summer. More likely, if not a space that is legally yours, you’ll have some sort of access to your building’s roof (ignore “Do Not Enter” signs and explore for yourself). When the heat reaches over 100, as it’s done a few times this summer, if you aren’t indoors sitting in front of the air-conditioner, the next best place to be is on your roof, where you can enjoy some food and friends while breezes of hot city air attempt to cool you down. This menu is perfect for one of these classy Saturday night affairs. Though we aren’t following our classic dip, bit, crostini cocktail party rule, these dishes can all be made far in advance, and reheated right before the party-or, if your rooftop furniture is hot enough, don’t even bother! Wash it all down with some Pomegranate Bubbly Punch, and your party may last well beyond cocktail hour.
Lime Marinated Chicken Skewers with Carrot-Miso Dipping Sauce
Zucchini Scallion Cakes with Lemon-Chive Creme Fraiche
Southwestern Artichoke Dip with Sweet Corn and Cayenne
Yellow and Blue Tortilla Chips
Those skewers look delicious!