We discussed yesterday when we made caprese skewers that weeknights are just the BEST time to have people over for a fun happy hour, right?

The problem is, people REALLY shouldn’t be drinking without eating, and WHO wants to cook a ton of complicated food after work when your friends are chatting?

Not I, that’s who.

Here are some ideas that I use often for happy hours when I don’t have time to cook.  Pick 3 or 4 and your guests will be thrilled – no need to put on a huge fancy spread, people are just happy that you’ll have them over!

The red links will take you back to the original recipes – enjoy!

Definitely make some flatbreads, but don’t worry about making them just like I did. Here’s another post with even more variations – use what’s in your fridge!

Of course, make some dang caprese skewers – they couldn’t be easier!  Add some olives if you’re feeling fancy.

I like hummus, and as long as you keep a can of chick peas in your cabinet you can make it on a moment’s notice.  Throw some sundried tomatoes in there if you’ve got any on hand!  They add a nice sweetness to regular hummus.

You’ll have to have shrimp on hand or stop by the store, but this 3-ingredient hibachi shrimp is super duper easy and delicious.  Throw out some toothpicks and call it a day.  Simple!

Last, but certainly not least, make some lemon-parm toasts and put out anything you’ve got to go with it – fresh veggies and fruit, cheese, spreads, meats, pickles – the sky’s the limit!  This makes a great “platter” effect with very little effort on your part.  You could even use sandwich bread or cut some bagels into quarters using this method – I do it all the time!

Seriously, kids, there are so many easy ways to feed people without going to a lot of trouble!

Plan a happy hour during your lunch break today, and enjoy your evening!