Dining Alfresco
Fire up the coals, light up the decking and enjoy great food outdoors
Summer is here and with true British optimism, the first sign of any sunshine means we get the BBQ out. So make the most of the outdoors, spruce up the garden and create the perfect space for dining al fresco.
To help you along your way, here are some ideas for outdoor dining, drinking and décor to get the summer season off to a great start.
Grubs up!
You don’t need to stick to the same old classics on a BBQ. Here in Lancashire we are very lucky to have such high quality produce on our doorstep, so try to buy locally where you can. Butchers will often make up BBQ packs of local meats and create their own marinades to add a bit of spice. New potatoes are full of flavour at this time of year and there are fresh locally grown salads in abundance.
If you want to go for something different, how about pork souvlaki, chicken wings, fish or a hog roast? For those who are vegetarian, why not try marinated feta in thyme and chilli oil or minty bean with courgette dip and pitta crisps, curried pasta salad and paprika tortillas.
Light it up!
To add that finishing touch to your BBQ, string up pretty lanterns, place solar lights around your garden, or repurpose some old jam jars with candles to set the mood. Rope lighting and fairy lights are also easily available and will add a magical yet inexpensive feature.
Wash it down
Whilst it might be easier to buy a bottle of elderflower presse, there are some easy recipes for summer spritzers that are suitable for all the family. Fresh flavours such as lemon, mint and raspberry will make the perfect accompaniment to any summer menu. We like this refreshing ‘cheats ginger beer’. You can make it as spicy as you like and with only four ingredients, it’s hardly going to break the bank.
