There really is nothing more enjoyable than a barbecue. Here are 10 of our best recipes to enjoy on a sunny day.
Beef burgers are a barbecue staple. If you're happy with plain beef and a bit of ketchup, that's fine. If you're looking to take your barbecue to the next level though, try adding Heston Blumenthal's smooth and smoky avocado sauce (pictured above) and salty strips of smoked bacon in each bun.
Another barbecue favourite from Heston. Hot dogs are loved by kids and adults alike, and they're great because you can set out all your condiments so people can finish off their dog the way they like best. Try a tangy piccalilli mayo, caramelised onions, and a star anise-infused sauerkraut with these dogs.
Too easy for words. Marinate large, juicy tiger prawns in peri peri sauce and olive oil, feeling free to add whatever kind of herbs or extra spices you think will work. Then chuck them on a hot barbecue until they turn a beautiful golden-brown colour and squeeze lemon over them before enjoying.
If you want to experience life as it was for cavemen (sort of), go all out and fling a butterflied haunch of venison onto the grill. Venison actually has less fat than chicken though, so it's not an unhealthy choice despite being a pricey one. You'll agree it was worth it though after taking that first bite of succulent meat.
Season some fresh lamb chops with freshly cracked black pepper, salt, and a little smoked paprika, before whacking them straight over the flames. Then simply crush up some feta and mix into diced tomatoes and enjoy with your seared chops. A recipe that is very summery and very delicious.
Now we're talking. Ignore the directions for a griddle pan unless it rains and you have to call off your barbecue at the last minute. Just rub your steaks with oil and salt, then briefly blaze them on both sides until medium rare (or leave them a bit longer if you prefer) and enjoy with teriyaki sauce and British asparagus.
Again, while the recipe tells you to use a griddle pan, simply chuck your halloumi on the barbecue instead. It gives it a lovely smoky flavour that sits so well with the cheese's natural saltiness. Serve with cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, basil and black olives, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over before eating.
Make jaws drop with these beautiful sweet potato and chicken barbecue skewers. The chicken is marinated with orange juice, ginger and chilli and honey, which is absolutely gorgeous. A top tip is to rub your skewers with a little oil to make sure the sticks don't burn and to help them cook evenly.
Lamb is a good meat to barbecue because it retains its moisture very well, and sausages have a high fat content so remain juicier than most cuts. Goes well with the recommended tzatziki dip or barbecued sweetcorn. Or just coupling them with some good old-fashioned ketchup, mustard or mayonnaise should do the trick.
A fishy finale for our barbecue favourites. Andrew Nutter grills his hake dressed with honey, oil, thyme, garlic and lemon zest. A very fresh, flavoursome lighter alternative to all that meat. Serve with new potatoes, shallots and a freshly made pea dressing to finish it all off with aplomb.
Expert barbecue advice:
How to light a barbecue
How to barbecue in the rain
Ten expert tips for cooking on a barbecue