Your beautiful Long Beach apartment has so many great amenities, so why not plan to stay home, work out in the fitness center, read a book (or kindle) by the pool and maybe have a late night supper or snack poolside.  Here are some easy summer pool side recipes.

Tropical Guacamole and Chips or Pita Bread

Guacamole and chips are a summer time staple.  Adding some pineapple, jalapeno, fresh squeezed limes and cilantro to store bought guacamole will make it a crowd pleaser.

Sunny Orange Lemonade

Make a simple syrup by bringing 1 1/4 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar to a boil.  In the meantime squeeze 3/4 cup of lemon and orange juice (about 4), add lemon and orange zest, pour in to a pool safe pitcher and let sit.

Fresh Fruit on Skewers

Fresh fruit skewers are the perfect choice for relaxing by the pool.  Buy fresh fruit and melons from the Long Beach farmers market, cut it and add thinly sliced meat and raspberry vinaigrette.   Let sit for an hour, then skewer the fruit.

Fun Fish Sandwiches

Kids and adults will love these easy to make and fun to eat sandwiches.  Spread peanut butter and jelly on bread, using a fish-shaped cookie cutter, cut them in to small bite sized finger sandwiches.  Place them on a platter and keep cool until it is time to serve.  You can substitute pb&j for tuna, egg or chicken salad for a more adult version.