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10 of the best summer recipes

by Lucy Hall

published on 28 April 2023

Brighter weather and longer days can only mean one thing – summer is finally upon us! It’s time for al fresco suppers, barbecues and picnics in the sun. From crisp salads to fresh pastas, and simple grills to seasonal desserts, this collection of 10 of our favourite summery recipes includes crowd-pleasing staples from Jamie Oliver, Ottolenghi, Nigella Lawson and more.

My Favourite Potato Salad

by Debora Robertson

Is it really a summer get-together without a potato salad? This take on the classic recipe will be a crowd favourite at any summer barbecue or picnic.

From the book

Meera Sodha’s Chargrilled Summer Salad

Meera Sodha’s Chargrilled Summer Salad

from EAST

This easy salad is smoky, sweet and packed with fresh seasonal vegetables which make it a perfect summertime meal.

Sweet and Sour Slaw

Sweet and Sour Slaw

In classic Nigella style, this dish is deliciously zingy and gloriously colourful. Perfect as a barbecue side or a big salad at a picnic, it will brighten up any summer setting.

Summer Pudding Loaf

Summer Pudding Loaf

Mary Berry’s splendid take on the timeless summer pudding uses all the fruits you want to eat all summer – blueberries, blackberries and raspberries.

Nadiya Hussain’s Tomato Galette

Nadiya Hussain’s Tomato Galette

This quick and easy recipe from Nadiya Hussain has all of the flavour of a pizza but is much more straightforward to make.

Mary Berry’s Moroccan Summer Salad

Mary Berry’s Moroccan Summer Salad

A refreshing and healthy Moroccan-inspired salad that only takes 30 minutes to throw together – this one is a summer staple.

Tandoori Prawns

Tandoori Prawns

These Indian-inspired tandoori prawns are ideal for a summer barbecue. Pair them with a crisp summer salad and a warm naan for maximum deliciousness.

Fig Salad

Fig Salad

by Wendy Rowe

If you’re looking for a light and healthy dinner, this fig salad is packed with superfood ingredients – ideal as a side or a light evening meal.

Midsummer Pasta

Midsummer Pasta

Fill your kitchen with the heady scent of basil as you make this fast and simple pasta packed with seasonal vegetables – perfect for any hot summer night.

Jamie Oliver Slow Roasted Lamb | Dinner Party Main

Jamie Oliver’s Slow-roasted Lamb with Fennel, Sage, Onion and Merguez Stuffing

If you’re looking for something to really impress friends and family, Jamie Oliver’s slow-roasted lamb is sure to revamp any Sunday lunch spread.

Super Soft Courgettes

Ottolenghi’s Super-Soft Courgettes with Harissa and Lemon

by Yotam Ottolenghi, Ixta Belfrage

This flavourful side dish is a fantastic accompaniment to any summer meal, and it has the added benefit of taking only 20 minutes to throw together!

Peach Tart

Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart

Make the most of seasonal summer peaches with this classic French recipe from Mary Berry. It’s the perfect showstopper to pack up for a picnic or to round off a barbecue.

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