The days are getting longer and the temp’s picking up, which means it’s time to start gearing up for a fully-stacked calendar of al-fresco dinner parties and BBQs. If you’re ready to hit the deck with free-flowing drinks, plenty of sunshine and a killer rotation of nibbles that’ll disappear in a single lap of the garden, we’re here to help. Set the ideal scene by giving your timber deck a refresh with Cabot's Aquadeck—then nail your next party menu by whipping up this drool-worthy list of summer share plates.
Prawn And Avocado Summer Rolls
Incredibly simple to whip up and packed with fresh and fragrant ingredients, these summer rolls are a winner if you’re stressed about oven space. Just pan-fry and season your prawns with paprika, and roll up with thinly sliced carrot, cabbage and avo. Pair with an umami-rich satay sauce for a guaranteed good time.
Full method and ingredients list here.
Sticky BBQ Pork Ribs
Slow-cooked and coated in a mouthwateringly sweet and sticky glaze, the secret to these is a can of cola, which the ribs slow-roast in for a couple of hours. Serve up with a refreshingly sour chive dip and a whole heap of napkins.
Full recipe here.
Grilled Corn With Chilli Mayo
Whipped up from eight simple ingredients—most of them sitting on the shelf at home—your juicy ears of corn are shucked and then chucked on the barbie until slightly charred. Slather in chilli-spiked mayo and sprinkle with parmesan and a generous squeeze of lime.
Full recipe here.
Chicken And Halloumi Skewers
Marinated in lemon, oregano and olive oil, these Greek-style skewers will transport your dinner crew straight to the Med in a few easy steps. Served up with natural yoghurt and a few lemon wedges, your guests will be chasing that salty, herby, tangy hit with every mouthful.
Full recipe here.
Old-School Sausage Rolls
The GOAT of kids' birthday parties, these savoury snacks deserve a seat at the table for your next swanky soiree. Encased in flaky golden pastry and packed with piping hot meat, they take a quick 15 minutes to prep and another 30 to cook. Plate up with plenty of tomato sauce for dunking, and you’ll have a backyard full of blissed-out and well-fed grownups.
Full recipe here.
Grilled Peach And Burrata
Caramelise your fresh peaches on the grill, before plating up with roughly torn burrata, mint and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The rich creaminess of the cheese is a winning combo with the sweetness and acidity of the balsamic and peach—it goes down an absolute treat as the centrepiece at a summer dinner party.
Full recipe here.
Crispy Chicken Bao Buns
Jam-packed with juicy fried chicken and fresh crunchy veg, these bao buns are a treat to the taste buds. Leave the hard part to the experts by picking up a pack of pillowy soft buns, then just batter and fry up your chicken before topping with fresh veg, coriander, and spicy chilli mayo.
Full recipe here.
Herby Zucchini Fritters
Stuffed with fresh herbs, salty sheep’s cheese and zucchini, these veggie fritters are the perfect balance of all the best summer flavours. Grate your veg and mix up with dill, mint, egg, onion and cheese, then shallow fry until crispy and golden, drain, and heap high on a plate with a generous drizzle of lemon.
Full recipe here.
Now that your menu is nailed down for hosting season, your backyard needs to shake off last year's wear and tear. For all the tools and tips for getting your timber deck sorted for summer, head to Cabot's—or check out our guide to refreshing your deck here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Cabot's and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
Image Credit: Urban List