11 Surprisingly Versatile Summer Tricks

Sponsored: Whether you’re hanging outdoors with friends or chilling at home with takeout and a movie, these tips will elevate your on-the-go moments.
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Photo by: Morgan Ione Yeager

Whether you’re hanging outdoors with friends or chilling at home with takeout and a movie, these tips will elevate your on-the-go moments. So go ahead, pack a picnic or order some delivery to feed your crew—and add some sparkle while you’re at it.

1. Keep your picnic dry by spreading a shower curtain under your blanket to ensure your guests stay comfortable.
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Photo by: Morgan Ione Yeager

2. For premade salads and sides that better stay crisp (vs. soggy), layer them with “dressing on the bottom” in jars for easy transport.
3. Amplify your favorite playlist for your crew by placing a smartphone inside a glass for a DIY speaker.
4. Create your own beverage tote by wrapping drink bottles in tea towels—tie the ends together to carry easily.
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5. Running out the door for a picnic with nothing but a stale baguette to pair with cheese and fruit?

Fear not. You can reinvigorate your bread by running it under the tap, then putting it in a 300–325˚F oven. Set a timer for 6–7 minutes and your baguette will be as fresh as new!

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6. For an extra punch of flavor, sprinkle your takeout meals with fresh herbs, grated cheese, or citrus zest.
7. The ultimate delivery hack for your favorite Chinese food: Unpack the carton to fold out as its own plate—making on-the-go eating and cleanup a breeze!
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8. Find yourself with a container of leftover white or brown rice from last night’s takeout?

Fry up some chopped garlic and veggies, toss in the rice, and stir through a splash of soy and chili sauce. Plate up and top with a fried egg for a perfectly delicious weeknight meal.

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9. To utilize your stash of leftover takeout packets of duck sauce, soy sauce, and mustard, add all three to a bowl with a half cup of peanut butter; stir in warm noodles, a handful of sesame seeds, and fresh scallions for peanut noodles in a flash!
10. Stretch a leftover curry or stir-fry dish into tomorrow’s lunch or dinner, by adding spoonfuls into lettuce cups for a delicious handheld meal.
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11. Want a solution for all those packets of spicy mustard piling up in your kitchen drawer?

Take your next batch of deviled eggs up a notch by replacing regular mustard with its spicy Chinese equivalent for a hint of extra heat.

For more summer inspiration visit drinksmartwater.com.