Summer lunch recipes for entertaining and celebrations

Three recipe images including grilled asparagus, whole cooked salmon and a meringue stack with summer berries

(Image credit: Future)

These summer lunch recipes are a real feast and ideal for sharing, without the formality of fixed courses. This menu serves eight hungry adults, but the starters and salads should serve six as part of a more humble spread. The salmon and layered meringue will be enough for many more, and leftovers will make wonderful second helpings. Mix and match with dishes from our al fresco lunch menu to tailor to your tastes and occasion.

Header imager introducing starters and sides

Asparagus with bay, garlic and lemon

Asparagus with bay leaves and whole crushed garlic cloves on a white plate with green patterns and a table with a green and white gingham tablecloth, a pink floral napkin and a pink and whire striped plate

This gorgeously vibrant asparagus with bay, garlic and lemon dish can also be prepared in advance and served in a tray straight from the oven. We love this Falcon enamelware serving tray as it has a retro look with colored rims and is perfect for oven-to-table dishes.

Black quinoa and beet salad

This black quinoa salad looks particularly dramatic and will add a delightful depth of color to the plate, particularly with the contrast of the pink beets and green beans. You can use regular quinoa though if you prefer, or can't get hold of the black variety.

Pickled vegetables with ricotta

Pickled vegetables and ricotta on a green plate on a pink and white gingham tablecloth with green and pink accessories

This pickled vegetables with ricotta dish is so pretty and you can ring the changes with whatever vegetables you prefer or that are in season at the time. The acidity of the pickling liquid is offset beautifully by the creamy ricotta for a light yet complex starter or side for your summer lunch.

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Firepit salmon

If you love fish and cooking outdoors, this firepit salmon with preserved lemon relish will tick all the boxes for an impressive summer lunch main. Cooked over fire or one of the best grills, it will add a little theater to your al fresco entertaining.

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Meringue stack with summer berries

The good thing about this meringue stack with summer berries is that it doesn't have to be perfect, in fact the less perfect, the better. The charm of this dish is in the relaxed arrangement and indulgent abundance of gooey meringue, rich vanilla cream and sweet, juicy seasonal berries. A real treat to finish off a special summer lunch.

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Lemon and rosemary gin and tonic

G&amp;T tipple with lemon and burnt rosemary

If you're looking for a refreshing twist on your favorite spirit and mixer this lemon and rosemary gin and tonic wins hands down. You make your own syrup – which is surprisingly easy – and can switch out gin for vodka to suit your preference. The sunshine yellow hue and sprig of rosemary look lovely accompanying a summer lunch spread.

If you like these summer lunch recipes and are planning lots of hosting over the coming weeks, we have also have a wonderful classic summer gathering menu that might appeal. Hosting in the evening? Try this al fresco supper menu. And if you want to step up the decor, take a look at our summer garden party themes for plenty of inspiration.

Kate specialises in shoot and event catering and runs the Stockwell Kitchen and Stockwell Studio in London.