Food
Picky bits dinner on the menu? Look no further
by Spencer Lengsfield
Picky bits, girl dinners, snack plates – whatever you call them, British summertime wouldn’t be complete without an assortment of dips, pastries, crudites, crackers and salads.
From tapas spreads to barbecues to picnics in the park, there’s something for everyone here. Of course, you can pop to your local supermarket and pick up some ready-made picky bits, but where’s the fun in that? Here’s our selection of recipes for the ultimate homemade summer spread.
Negroni chicken skewers
This sweet, spiced marinade mimics all the best bits of a negroni cocktail. Serve with a crunchy, fresh fennel and orange salad to add that classic orange twist. It’s great with pork, too!
Pickle potato salad
Don’t waste your pickle brine! Put it to good use in this tangy potato salad – it makes a great barbecue side
Crab remoulade salad
Perk up your taste buds with this peppery little starter – it’s a great one for picnics, too
Picky bits quiche
Crunchy pickles, salty ham and an abundance of cheese set within a creamy filling are right at home in a toasty cracker tart base
Quickles
Making pickles couldn’t be easier! We like to use the 3:2:1 method, meaning 3 parts vinegar, 2 parts water, and 1 part sugar with a pinch of salt.
Sausage rolls
Master the classic sausage roll recipe then pack them on your next picnic or serve up at a party, because who doesn't love a sausage roll?
Ploughman's frittata slice
All the best bits of a ploughman’s lunch in a handy portable slice. A crumbly Wensleydale and vintage cheddar make a great mix, but you can swap in any cheese you like
Scotch eggs
Learn how to make these meaty snacks with a hidden egg centre to take to your next picnic
Coronation chicken couscous
We’ve given the pantry staple couscous a royally British twist with a curried Coronation-style dressing, roast chicken and dried apricots. Perfect for a summer meal or picnic!
Courgette and tahini dip
Enjoy this delicious dip served with warm pitta as part of a Middle Eastern feast
