Summer is the time for alfresco dining, sizzling barbecues, and picnics galore. It’s also the perfect opportunity to make the most of fantastic seasonal produce – ripe tomatoes, peppers, courgettes, new potatoes, peas, berries and more – all at their very best.
And whether the sun’s shining or the rain is pouring, there’s always something to celebrate when you’ve got a few summer dishes up your sleeve. So get the wine chilling, and tuck into our sunshine-filled recipes.
SUNNY SALADS
This Italian bread and tomato salad recipe is perfect for summer. It’s best when tomatoes are in season, so make it when you’ve got super-ripe tomatoes for maximum flavour.
A pretty posh twist on a classic potato salad recipe. The light, lemony yoghurt dressing makes this dish perfect for alfresco dining, or great picnic fodder.
The key to this iconic Greek classic is to use super-fresh ingredients to guarantee bold flavours.
Make the most of seasonal veggies in this vibrant salad. Packed with fresh flavours, this elegant little number pairs beautifully with barbecued meat, goat’s cheese or feta.
BARBECUE WINNERS
Fire up the barbecue and get the kids to help cook these super-simple burgers. With melty cheese, tangy gherkins and crunchy veg – you can’t go wrong.
Vegetarian barbecues are a thing of jo; and these Greek-inspired skewers are so satisfying. Packed with flavour, colour and attitude, these handheld beauties do not disappoint.
Tender meat, homemade BBQ sauce and the tastiest potato salad, this rib dish is a real treat. Grab yourself a handful of whisky wood chips to create an amazing smoky flavour.
Minimal ingredients but maximum flavour, these principle kebabs are equally fantastic cooked on barbecue or in the oven.
Go all out with Nathan Outlaw’s sensational seafood burger. We’re talking patties made from crabmeat, prawns and cod, topped with an incredible homemade wasabi mayo.
You can’t beat a classic burger recipe, and this one totally delivers on the flavour-front. Homemade patties topped with chopped salad and tangy gherkins. Guaranteed to leave you all shook up.
Stuffed with salsa verde and wrapped in salty prosciutto, these tender chicken skewers are truly something special.
Inspired by the flavours of Mexico, these veggie burgers are barbecue gold. Topped with fresh tomato salsa, creamy avo and fresh rocket, you won’t even miss the meat.
ALFRESCO FARE
Make the most of seasonal produce in this beautiful vegetarian pasta recipe. Packed with delicate summer veg and tossed through homemade pesto – it’s a total joy.
These beautiful little potatoes are a proper highlight of the food calendar. They make an epic potato salad, barbecue side, or summery accompaniment for roasts or grilled fish.
Fresh, creamy burrata is hard to beat. Pair it with seasonal ripe tomatoes in the warmer months for an incredible alfresco starter.
Make the most of courgette flowers when they’re in season – they’re the most incredible vehicle for flavour. Stuffed with peas and soft ricotta, these flowers really are something to shout about.
SWEET THINGS
Transform super-simple smoothies into cooling ice lollies. Feel free to experiment with different flavours and frozen fruit – make it your own!
Bound to quench your thirst on a sunny day, this store-cupboard cocktail is delicious, quick, and will really kick off the weekend in style.
One for the grown-ups: these super-fun ice lollies are sure to hit the spot on a hot day. Feel free to replace the rum with coconut water, if you prefer.
Channelling the iconic Pimm’s No.1 cup but without the booze, this fruity little number is a real treat. Refreshing, citrussy and flavour-packed – it’s a delight.
Tangy, sweet and tart, this summer cordial recipe is a real celebration of summer. Feel free to swap in blueberries, blackberries or even redcurrants, if you fancy.
Only 6 ingredients, but so impressive-looking, this strawberry dessert just screams summer.
Totally untraditional, but utterly delicious, this berry-packed pud is sure to put a smile on your face. Give it a go!
After more sunshine inspiration? Check out our wider collection of beautiful summer recipes
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