Burgers

A barbie wouldn’t be a barbie without a burger and Ainsley Harriott’s Spicy Beanburger combines spinach, coriander, chilli and cannellini beans to create a patty that looks and tastes great – it’s also packed with protein so healthy too. Alternatively, try Danny Boome’s Veggie Burger. It isn’t strictly a burger, but the grilled tomatoes, portabello mushrooms and halloumi couldn’t be more satisfying sandwiched between two slices of bread.

Skewers

Skewers are the perfect finger food for your guests as they cluster around the barbecue.
If you’re using wooden brochette sticks, don’t forget to soak them in water beforehand to stop them catching.
Fragrant and colourful, Nancy Lam’s Barbecue Vegetables are marinated in lemongrass and spices, making richly-flavoured skewers.
For the spice-loving palate, the Aloo Gobi and Paneer Skewers from Tim Reeves are another treat.

Accompaniments

As guests arrive clutching packets of burgers, strings of sausages and a bottle of wine, the accompaniments to a barbecue are often forgotten. Regardless of whether you eat meat or not, the following make a great complement to cooked fare.
Peppers with a Tangy Feta Stuffing work fantastically on an open flame. The heat brings out a delicious sweet flavour in the peppers, beautifully contrasting with the saltiness of the feta and filling.
Make salads a bit more interesting, with a refreshing Orange, Radish and Carrot Salad. Just as good on the side as shoe-horned between bun and burger.
For a more substantial salad, Silvana Franco’s Aubergine, Feta and Broad Bean Salad is easy to make and makes the most of a variety of textures and summer flavours.
Don’t forget the carbs! An Italian-inspired Wild Rice Salad, laden with vegetables is fresh, tasty and filling.

Dessert

And last but not least, there’s the pudding. Nigel Slater’s Lemon Trifle, laced with Limoncello and lemon curd, is a simple finish to an outdoor meal. Fresh strawberries and cream make a light alternative or can be combined with the trifle for those who've still got room.