After a bike ride with friends, everyone is coming back to my place for a delicious Indian-inspired dinner in the patio. I'll turn on the fountain, light some candles, and play festive music. Before the ride, I'll set the table; that way I won't have to worry about it when my friends are over. White plates and white cloth napkins, like the ones seen here from Williams-Sonoma ($42) and Dansk ($12), are ideal for showcasing the meal. A colorfully printed table runner looks chic down the middle of the table. I'll serve the food on large platters — I love this gold rectangular one by Mamma Ro ($35) — and the mojitos in a clear pitcher. A vase with flowers finishes the look.
After an 
After a long 
I've developed a newfound love for bike riding. To celebrate my hobby, I'm inviting some friends to join me for an afternoon bike ride. When we arrive back at my house, we'll enjoy a leisurely mid-Summer meal on the patio. Since I'm spicing things up with a new activity, I'm serving an equally exotic Indian-inspired meal. We'll unwind with red-lentil dal and crunchy pita chips. While we savor this snack, I'll throw some marinated tandoori-style chicken drumsticks on the grill. This finger-licking-good chicken will be served at the table with a curried couscous salad with roasted vegetables, peach chutney, and cilantro yogurt. The salad and dip can be made before the bike ride. 
