Please wait, the site is loading...

Food

Alfresco April: Easy spring suppers that all serve six

by Abigail Spooner
Alfresco April: Easy spring suppers that all serve six
Image: Toby Scott

With garden gatherings of six given the go-ahead, it’s time to invite your friends and family over for some long-awaited outdoor entertaining. Read our round-up of easy spring suppers, all ready in under an hour.

1. Broad bean, dill and hazelnut risotto

Image: Kris Kirkham
Image: Kris Kirkham

Nothing beats a one-pot for easy alfresco dining. This veggie risotto is packed with fresh flavours and is lovely served with a bottle of Italian white wine.

2. Sloppy Joe bowls

Inspired by the American classic, this quick and easy recipe is ideal for making ahead and reheating when guests arrive. Let everyone choose their own toppings from an assortment of guacamole, soured cream, cheddar and chillies. Serve with rice if you’re feeding a hungry crowd.

3. Provençal pine nut crusted salmon

Image: Rob Streeter
Image: Rob Streeter

Whisk yourself away to the south of France with this Provençal-inspired salmon dish. It takes minutes to put together and is cooked all in one roasting tin, so you can enjoy spending time outside without endless washing up to follow.

4. Zingy lemon chicken casserole

Image: Mike English
Image: Mike English

This comforting but lighter chicken casserole is full of spring veg and citrus flavour. It uses half-fat crème fraiche and cornflour for a healthier creamy sauce.

5. Mexican grilled corn nachos

Image: Andrew Burton
Image: Andrew Burton

We’ve given the ultimate sharing food a fresh twist with grilled sweetcorn, feta and a lime sour cream drizzle. From kitchen to garden in just 20 minutes and moreishly good.

6. Luxe smoked salmon gnocchi bake

Image: Kris Kirkham
Image: Kris Kirkham

With a creamy prosecco sauce and springtime greens, this gnocchi bake is guaranteed to impress. Assemble earlier in the day and make the most of the lighter evenings (fizz in hand) while it bubbles away in the oven.

7. Chicken and mango curry

Image: Karen Thomas
Image: Karen Thomas

This mild and fruity curry uses a shop-bought curry paste and tin of coconut milk for ease. Serve on a bed of fluffy rice with naan bread for dunking, if you like.

Don`t miss