How To Choose the Perfect BBQ Line-Up for a Summer Garden Party

Planning a summer garden party is one of my absolute favourite ways to make the most of the season. There’s something magical about gathering loved ones outdoors-with bunting in the breeze, laughter in the air, and the irresistible scent of the barbecue wafting through the garden. For me, good food is at the heart of it all, and nothing sets the tone quite like a thoughtfully chosen BBQ spread.

I like to keep things simple but special, with a variety of delicious options that cater to all tastes, whether it’s a juicy steak, tender chicken, a spicy sausage, or the perfect homemade burger.

A great BBQ doesn’t need dozens of different dishes - it just needs a few well-chosen favourites, cooked with care.

Beef Cuts: Ribeye & Sirloin

When I want to offer something a little luxurious, ribeye steak is my first choice. It’s beautifully marbled, rich in flavour, and always a talking point around the table. I season it simply with just sea salt, cracked black pepper, and maybe a touch of rosemary,so the natural flavour shines through.

Sirloin steak is another favourite. It’s a little leaner, but still full of character. It grills up quickly and slices beautifully, making it perfect for sharing platters or salads.

Chicken Skewers: Light, Flavourful, and Always Popular

Free-range chicken skewers are a real crowd-pleaser, especially when I’ve got children or guests looking for something lighter. I usually use boneless thigh, marinated in yoghurt, lemon juice, garlic, and warming spices like paprika or cumin. Threaded with colourful veg—like peppers, courgettes or red onions. They're a vibrant and tasty addition to the grill.

They also cook quickly, which makes them ideal when everyone’s hungry and hovering! Just don't forget to double check the chicken is throughly cooked before serving.

Merguez Sausages: A Bold, Spicy Twist

I like to offer something a little different too, and Merguez sausages are a fantastic way to do that. Made with beef, they have a lovely warming heat and a smoky depth that really stands out.

They pair beautifully with flatbreads, a drizzle of tahini or yoghurt dressing, or a fresh couscous salad with herbs and lemon. Guests are always intrigued by them and more often than not, they come back for seconds.

Burgers: A Classic That Never Disappoints

Of course, no barbecue is complete without a good burger. There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about them, especially when you start with a high-quality mince.

Again, I keep my burgers simple, just good beef, a pinch of salt, and a little pepper—formed by hand and grilled until they’re just pink in the middle. Then I lay out a build-your-own burger station with fresh buns, cheese, pickles, lettuce, tomato, caramelised onions, and a few different sauces so everyone can customise to their heart’s content. Kid's love building their own burger!

Tips for a Smooth and Successful BBQ

Once the menu’s sorted, it’s all about execution. A few simple tips go a long way:

• Preheat your grill properly to get that lovely sear and avoid food sticking.

• Don’t overcrowd -give each item space to cook evenly.

• Rest your meat for a few minutes after grilling - it really makes a difference in tenderness and juiciness.

• Use a meat thermometer for peace of mind, especially with chicken and burgers.

Bringing Everyone Together

Barbecues are meant to feel relaxed, and I love getting the family involved in the prep. Kids can help shape burgers, mix marinades, or arrange chicken skewers—while older ones might enjoy learning to grill under a watchful eye.

It’s less about perfection and more about the joy of cooking and sharing together. And when the table’s finally set - piled high with steaks, golden skewers, sizzling sausages, and deliciuos burgers—there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing everyone tuck in with a smile.

Whether you’re going for classic favourites or adding a few bold flavours to the mix, a bit of variety is what turns a barbecue into a feast. So fire up the grill, pour yourself a cold drink, and enjoy the simple pleasure of good food, good company, and long, lazy summer afternoons.