B. Dylan Hollis Bakes Again: ‘Baking Across America’ Serves Retro Charm with a Modern Wink

If you've ever stumbled upon a chaotic TikTok baking session featuring vintage recipes, flamboyant shirts, a sudden burst of accordion music and the unmistakable voice of B. Dylan Hollis exclaiming, “What in the Depression-era hell?” — then you already know the joy he brings to the kitchen. 

Now, the internet’s favourite culinary time traveller is back with his second cookbook, Baking Across America, and it's a glorious deep-dive into retro American baking that’s equal parts nostalgia, novelty, and nutmeg.

The Return of a Viral Baking Icon

Following the smash-hit success of his first cookbook, Baking Yesteryear, B. Dylan Hollis has doubled down on his mission: to revive forgotten recipes from America’s past, while delighting a whole new generation of bakers. 

In Baking Across America, Hollis broadens his scope, exploring historic regional bakes that span all 50 states. Think Alabama Lane Cake, Pennsylvania Shoofly Pie, Kansas Peppernuts, and more—all lovingly restored with his trademark flair.

More Than Just Quirky Cakes

What makes this book more than just a novelty item is Hollis's genuine passion for history and home baking. Each recipe comes with a little story—some funny, some poignant, some just plain bizarre. It's part cookbook, part history lesson, and all heart. 

Whether you're trying your hand at a 1930s potato candy or a mid-century mayonnaise cake (don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it), every page is a trip through time.

A British Perspective on American Baking

For those of us in the UK, Baking Across America offers a fascinating glimpse into our cousins’ culinary past. While our traditional puddings, sponges, and biscuits hold their charm, there's something delightfully rebellious about mixing Coca-Cola into cake batter or using crushed cornflakes in cookies. If you're looking to bring something unexpected to your next bake sale or tea party, this book delivers.

Why This Cookbook Deserves a Spot on Your Shelf

It’s brilliantly entertaining—even if you never lift a mixing spoon.

The photography is vibrant and full of character, much like Hollis himself.

It encourages exploration of baking traditions beyond the usual Victoria sponge or jam roly-poly.

It’s a perfect gift for fans of food history, retro lovers, or anyone with a sweet tooth.

Final Thoughts: A Whisk Through Time Worth Taking

Baking Across America isn’t just about recipes—it’s about stories, culture, and the joy of rediscovering the weird and wonderful treats of yesteryear. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just in it for the laughs, B. Dylan Hollis has once again served up a book that’s as delightful on the coffee table as it is in the kitchen.

Have you tried any of the recipes from B. Dylan Hollis’s cookbooks? Let us know your favourites in the comments—or tag us on Instagram with your baking creations!

To buy a copy of this book please click here to visit our own shop https://amzn.to/3Fa13Lx

Summer-Ready Stir-Fries You Can Make in 15 Minutes

When summer rolls in with its sunny afternoons and long evenings, the last thing anyone wants is to be stuck over a hot stove for hours. That’s where the humble stir-fry becomes your best friend. 

Fresh, fast, and fabulously customisable, these 15-minute stir-fries are perfect for warm-weather meals.

Whether you're using up seasonal veg from your garden or making the most of a farmers’ market haul, stir-fries are the ultimate summer kitchen hack.

Here are some quick and flavour-packed stir-fry ideas to keep your meals light, healthy, and full of seasonal zing.

1. Lemon-Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry

Why it's summer-ready: The zingy citrus and fresh ginger make this dish bright and refreshing.

Ingredients:

Sliced chicken breast

Courgette, bell pepper, and sugar snap peas

Garlic, fresh ginger, lemon juice, soy sauce, and a splash of honey

Quick Tip: Use pre-sliced stir-fry veg packs to save even more time.

Serve with: Rice noodles or a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option.

2. Rainbow Veggie Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce

Why it's summer-ready: Loaded with colourful veg and finished with a nutty, tangy dressing that’s perfect cold or hot.

Ingredients:

Carrot ribbons, purple cabbage, red pepper, mange tout

Garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, peanut butter, and a touch of chilli flakes

Quick Tip: Use a vegetable peeler to get beautiful ribbons that cook in seconds.

Serve with: Jasmine rice or in a warm wrap for a picnic-friendly lunch.

3. Prawn & Pineapple Stir-Fry

Why it's summer-ready: Sweet pineapple pairs perfectly with juicy prawns and a hint of chilli.

Ingredients:

Raw king prawns, fresh pineapple chunks, red onion, and green beans

Garlic, ginger, fish sauce, soy sauce, and red chilli

Quick Tip: Use tinned pineapple if fresh isn’t available—just drain well to avoid extra liquid.

Serve with: Coconut rice or straight from the wok with chopsticks for a light supper.

4. Tofu & Broccoli in Garlic Soy Glaze

Why it's summer-ready: It’s a lighter, plant-based option that still packs a savoury punch.

Ingredients:

Firm tofu, broccoli florets, red pepper

Garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, a splash of rice vinegar

Quick Tip: Press tofu in advance and pan-fry until golden before adding veg.

Serve with: Brown rice or soba noodles for added fibre.

5. Beef & Basil Stir-Fry (Pad Kra Pao-inspired)

Why it's summer-ready: Basil adds a fresh herbaceous note that balances the rich beef.

Ingredients:

Minced beef, green beans, onion, garlic, fresh red chilli

Soy sauce, fish sauce, a pinch of sugar, and plenty of fresh basil

Quick Tip: Don’t skip the sugar—it balances the salty elements beautifully.

Serve with: Steamed jasmine rice and a fried egg on top if you’re feeling fancy.

Stir-Fry Success in 15 Minutes – A Few Handy Tips

Prep first: Chop all your ingredients before you start cooking – stir-fries are fast, and timing is everything.

Hot wok, cold oil: Heat the pan before adding oil to prevent sticking.

Layer flavours: Start with garlic, ginger, or onions, then add protein, then veg, and finally sauces.

Don’t overcook: Keep veg crisp-tender to preserve texture and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Stir-fries are more than just a quick fix – they’re a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavours. Perfect for those balmy summer nights when you want something light yet satisfying. Try one (or all) of these combinations and mix things up with whatever’s fresh and in season.

Have a favourite summer stir-fry combo? Share it in the comments or tag us on Instagram @ThatsFoodAndDrink!

How to Host the Perfect Spring Bank Holiday Party

The Spring Bank Holiday is the ideal time to gather friends and family for a relaxed celebration. 

Falling at the end of May, it’s perfectly placed to kick off the summer vibes with outdoor fun, great food, and plenty of laughter. 

Whether you're hosting a garden get-together, a street party, or something a bit more low-key, here’s your ultimate guide to throwing a brilliant Bank Holiday bash.

1. Pick Your Party Style

Start by deciding what kind of event suits your space, guests, and budget:

Garden party – Think bunting, picnic blankets, and plenty of prosecco and nosecco

Barbecue – Always a crowd-pleaser. Provide veggie and vegan options to cater for everyone.

Afternoon tea – A classic British option. Finger sandwiches, scones, and plenty of Earl Grey.

Street party – Get the neighbours involved! Just be sure to check if you need any permissions from the council.

Indoor alternative – If the weather looks a bit iffy (this is Britain, after all), have a cosy indoor plan with games and party snacks.

2. Send Out Invites Early

The Spring Bank Holiday is a popular weekend for getaways, so let your guests know your plans well in advance. You could:

Create a simple WhatsApp group

Use a free digital invite platform like Paperless Post

Go old-school with handmade invitations for a personal touch

3. Create a Simple, Seasonal Menu

Go for food that’s easy to prep in advance and suits the (hopefully sunny) weather:

Nibbles: Crisps, crudités, and dips

Mains: Barbecue classics, quiches, sausage rolls, or make-your-own wraps

Sweet treats: Strawberries and cream, mini pavlovas, or an ice cream bar, or scones and clotted cream!

Drinks: Pimms, mocktails, cider, and homemade lemonade

Make sure there’s something for kids and designated drivers too.

4. Decorate with Spring Vibes

Celebrate the season with cheerful decorations:

String up bunting or fairy lights

Add vases of fresh flowers from the garden

Use gingham tablecloths or pastel plates and cups

Have outdoor cushions or blankets ready for extra seating

5. Plan Some Entertainment

A few simple activities can turn a get-together into a truly memorable occasion:

Garden games: giant Jenga, rounders, or a treasure hunt for the kids

A playlist full of feel-good hits from across the decades

A trivia quiz or party bingo for a laid-back indoor option

6. Be Weather Wise

The British weather can turn on a sixpence, so:

Have a gazebo, umbrella, or marquee on standby

Make sure there’s indoor space to fall back on

Prep some warm snacks and a hot drink station, just in case

7. Don’t Forget the Little Extras

It’s the small touches that really make a party feel special:

A chalkboard or sign to welcome guests

Name tags for drinks (less washing up!)

Party favours or treat bags for kids

A camera or photo booth corner for fun snaps

8. Embrace the Community Spirit

Bank Holidays are a great excuse to connect with neighbours. If you're hosting a larger event:

Share responsibilities like food, drinks, and decorations

Involve local musicians or small businesses for added flair

Consider making it a charity fundraiser or raffle event

Final Thoughts

The Spring Bank Holiday is a chance to slow down, soak up the sunshine (if we’re lucky), and enjoy good company. Whether you're throwing a grand affair or an intimate gathering, a bit of planning and a lot of heart go a long way. So light the barbecue, pour the Pimms, and make the most of this extra day off.

Here’s to great weather and even better memories – happy Spring Bank Holiday!

Host a Towel Day Party to Celebrate the Life of Douglas Adams

Hosting a Towel Day party or event in honour of Douglas Adams is a brilliant way to celebrate his legacy, particularly his cult classic The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. 

Towel Day is observed annually on 25 May, and fans around the world proudly carry a towel in his memory. 

Here's how you can host a fun and memorable event:

Towel Day Party/Event Ideas

Theme & Dress Code

Towel-themed attire: Encourage guests to bring or wear towels (creatively!)—around their shoulders, as capes, turbans, or even beach-style outfits.

Cosplay characters from Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy—think Arthur Dent (in his dressing gown), Zaphod Beeblebrox (two heads optional), or Marvin the Paranoid Android.

Activities & Entertainment

Dramatic Readings & Quotes

Host readings from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy series—choose iconic or funny passages.

Run a "Finish the Quote" quiz with classic lines from the books.

Hitchhiker’s Trivia

Create a trivia quiz with questions about the books, radio shows, TV adaptation, and Douglas Adams' life.

Improv or Skit Session

Ask groups to act out scenes from the book or invent new ones involving towels, spaceships, and intergalactic bureaucracy.

Towel Decorating Station

Provide plain towels and fabric pens, patches, and glitter glue for guests to personalise their own celebratory towel.

Food & Drink Ideas

Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster: Create a fun, non-alcoholic version of the infamous cocktail (use lemonade, blue curacao syrup, popping candy, etc.).

42-Themed Snacks: Label dishes and drinks with references from the books, like “Deep Thought Dip” or “Babel Fish Biscuits”.

"Don’t Panic" cake with themed decorations.

Photo Opportunities

Set up a photo booth with themed props: towels, guidebooks, Marvin masks, and spaceship backdrops.

Use signs like “I know where my towel is” and “Don’t Panic!” for social sharing.

Promotion or Virtual Option

If you're blogging or sharing online, encourage fans to post towel selfies with hashtags like #TowelDay or #DontPanic.

Host a virtual event on Zoom or Discord for remote fans—combine trivia, readings, and towel show-and-tells.

Bonus: Educational/Charity Element

Share facts about Douglas Adams’ contributions to science and conservation (he was a supporter of endangered species causes).

Collect donations for a related charity (e.g., wildlife conservation or literacy).

Why Coffee Mornings and Wine & Cheese Evenings Matter on World Schizophrenia Day

Each year on 24th May, World Schizophrenia Day encourages us to look beyond the stereotypes and stigma associated with schizophrenia, a severe and often misunderstood mental health condition affecting around 1 in 100 people in the UK. 

While awareness campaigns and clinical education are vital, so too are grassroots events that bring people together in a relaxed and supportive environment.

That’s where coffee and cake mornings and wine and cheese evenings come in — not just as delightful social gatherings, but as powerful tools for raising awareness, reducing stigma, and generating much-needed funds for mental health services and charities.

Why These Events Work

1. They Make Difficult Conversations Easier

Mental health can be an uncomfortable topic for many. But sit people down with a hot cup of coffee and a slice of Victoria sponge, or a glass of red wine with a wedge of brie, and the atmosphere changes. It becomes more casual, more human. These settings are ideal for starting conversations about schizophrenia in a non-clinical, stigma-free way.

2. They Encourage Community Engagement

Hosting a coffee morning at your workplace, community centre, or even your home invites people from all walks of life to take part. Similarly, a wine and cheese evening can be a fun, sociable event that draws a crowd. These gatherings strengthen community bonds, offering a sense of connection and collective responsibility around mental health.

3. They’re Easy to Organise

Unlike larger fundraising events, coffee mornings and wine & cheese parties are simple, low-cost, and easy to organise. A few baked goods, a kettle, or a few bottles of supermarket wine and local cheeses, and you're set. They can also be tailored to suit your budget and venue — from intimate gatherings to larger open-invite events.

4. They’re an Opportunity to Educate

These events can be paired with short talks, leaflets, or poster displays offering facts about schizophrenia, the signs and symptoms, and ways people can support affected individuals. By combining social interaction with information, you create a space where education feels accessible and not overwhelming.

5. They Raise Funds Where They're Needed Most

Funds raised through these events can support charities like Rethink Mental Illness, Mind, or local mental health trusts. Donations can help provide counselling, housing support, crisis lines, and community projects — resources that are often stretched thin.

Getting Involved

Want to host your own event this World Schizophrenia Day? Here are some quick tips:

Pick a Date close to 24th May and promote it in advance.

Partner with a local charity or mental health organisation for materials or guest speakers.

Include donation jars or use QR codes for digital donations.

Display stories of lived experience (with permission) to add a personal touch.

Promote on social media using hashtags like #WorldSchizophreniaDay and #EndTheStigma.

Final Thoughts

Schizophrenia is not as rare as we think — and it touches lives in every community. By turning something as simple as coffee and cake or wine and cheese into a platform for awareness and compassion, we not only help others understand the reality of schizophrenia, but we also show that support starts with a conversation.

So this World Schizophrenia Day, why not raise a mug or a glass — and raise awareness at the same time?

https://www.rethink.org/campaigns-and-policy/awareness-days-and-events/national-schizophrenia-awareness-day/

How to Celebrate World Turtle Day with a Fundraising Feast

Combine good food with a great cause this 23rd May

At That’s Food and Drink, we believe that food has the power to bring people together — and when it’s in support of a worthy cause, that power multiplies. 

This World Turtle Day (23rd May), why not put your love of entertaining to good use by hosting a fundraising party or dinner in aid of turtle and tortoise conservation?

Whether you’re cooking up a feast, setting a beautiful table, or crafting cocktails, here’s how to turn your passion for food and drink into tangible support for our shelled friends.

Why World Turtle Day Matters

Turtles and tortoises play a vital role in ecosystems across the globe — but they’re under threat from pollution, habitat loss, climate change, and the illegal pet trade. World Turtle Day, created by American Tortoise Rescue, raises awareness and funds for the protection of these gentle creatures.

Hosting a fundraising dinner gives you the chance to support that mission while enjoying fabulous food with friends.

Plan the Perfect Turtle-Themed Gathering

1. Choose Your Style

Set the tone for your event with one of these formats:

Turtle-Friendly Supper Club: Host a themed three-course dinner featuring sustainable ingredients.

Garden Turtle Picnic: Set out rugs, finger foods, and iced drinks in your garden or local park.

Afternoon Tea for Turtles: Serve classic scones, sandwiches, and turtle-themed bakes for a stylish twist.

Tapas & Turtles Night: Combine small plates with a short film or presentation about turtle conservation.

Sustainable Menu Inspiration

Your menu should be a celebration of flavour and ethics. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Starter: Cucumber gazpacho or seaweed salad

Main: Sustainable fish curry, jackfruit tacos, or plant-based paella

Dessert: “Turtle Tracks” chocolate mousse or pistachio panna cotta shaped like a turtle shell

Drinks: Ocean-blue cocktails, sea salt mocktails, and reusable straw stations

Try to keep dishes ocean-friendly by avoiding single-use plastics and sourcing ingredients locally and sustainably.

Fundraising Made Easy

Encourage donations in fun and creative ways:

Charge a set amount for a “ticket” to your dinner.

Host a food-themed raffle or silent auction (e.g. home-baked goods, wine hampers, local restaurant vouchers).

Offer a bake sale table with goodies for guests to take home in exchange for donations.

Set up a digital donation link through JustGiving or PayPal and display a QR code at the table.

Choose a charity doing great work in this space, such as:

World Turtle Day https://www.worldturtleday.org/

The Turtle Foundation https://www.turtle-foundation.org/en/

Marine Conservation Society (UK) https://www.mcsuk.org/

British Chelonia Group http://www.britishcheloniagroup.org.uk/

🌍 Decor and Table Styling Tips

Keep things tasteful and turtle-forward:

Use ocean-inspired tones — teal, turquoise, and sandy neutrals.

Decorate with shells, driftwood, and potted succulents.

Add small fact cards about turtles or ocean conservation as conversation starters.

Swap paper napkins for fabric ones, and offer compostable plates if dining alfresco.

Share the Shell-ebration (Sorry!)

Don’t forget to document the fun! Post your spread, styling, and fundraising total on Instagram or Facebook. Tag your chosen charity and use hashtags like #WorldTurtleDay, #ThatsFoodAndDrink, and #DineForChange to inspire others.

Final Course: Make it Count

Celebrating World Turtle Day through food lets you give back in the most delicious way. Whether you’re cooking for two or twenty, your efforts help raise awareness and vital funds for turtle conservation efforts across the world.

So dust off your platters, fill those glasses, and let’s toast to turtles — one tasty bite at a time.

Planning a menu or want turtle-themed recipe cards to go with your event? Let us know in the comments or tag us @ThatsFoodAndDrink – we’d love to share your ideas!

World Diversity Day: How Our Food Choices Can Celebrate Culture and Protect the Planet

Here at That’s Food and Drink, we believe food is far more than fuel. It’s a story, a culture, a connection.

So what better time to explore the deeper impact of our food choices than on World Diversity Day (21 May)?

This global observance celebrates cultural richness and encourages open dialogue and inclusive development. But diversity doesn’t just apply to languages, traditions, or beliefs — it also lives in our kitchens, our gardens, and the meals we share.

This year, we're shining a spotlight on how our daily food habits can promote biodiversity, sustainability, and cultural celebration — one bite at a time.

Why Food Diversity Deserves a Place at the Table

Did you know that although more than 30,000 plants are edible, most of the world relies on just a handful of them? It’s estimated that 75% of our food comes from only 12 plants and 5 animal species. That’s not just a missed culinary opportunity — it’s a threat to biodiversity and food security.

When we celebrate and consume a wider variety of foods, we help protect traditional crops, encourage more sustainable farming, and bring often-overlooked ingredients back into the spotlight. Diversity on our plates can lead to greater resilience in the face of climate change, food shortages, and ecological imbalance.

5 Delicious Ways to Make Planet-Friendly, Diverse Food Choices

At That’s Food and Drink, we love a practical tip — especially when it leads to discovering delicious new ingredients. Here’s how you can celebrate World Diversity Day with your fork:

1. Explore Global Flavours

Try out recipes from cultures beyond your own. From Moroccan tagines to Filipino sinigang or Jamaican callaloo, cooking globally not only diversifies your diet but supports appreciation and respect for different culinary traditions.

2. Celebrate Forgotten Crops

Reacquaint yourself with heritage and ancient grains like spelt, teff, buckwheat, or emmer. These nutrient-rich ingredients are not only great for you, but they support more resilient agricultural systems too.

3. Eat Seasonally and Locally

Choosing British-grown produce in season — like rhubarb in spring, broad beans in summer, or root veg in autumn — reduces your carbon footprint and supports local growers keeping traditional varieties alive.

4. Go Plant-Forward

Meat-free meals don't mean boring meals. Pulses, nuts, seeds, and vegetables from around the world offer endless flavour combinations. Try a Middle Eastern lentil and bulgur mujaddara or a West African peanut stew for a sustainable supper.

5. Buy From Diverse Food Producers

Look for local businesses and food makers from diverse backgrounds. By supporting independent producers — whether through farmers’ markets, food festivals, or cultural food shops — you champion community-driven food diversity.

Food Is Culture, Connection, and Care

Food brings us together. It carries our stories, values, and sense of home. This World Diversity Day, let’s celebrate the deliciously diverse ways people grow, cook, and share food — and think about how each choice we make in the kitchen can nourish both people and the planet.

Looking for Inspiration?

We’re sharing a series of planet-positive recipes and ingredient spotlights this week on That’s Food and Drink. Follow along and tag your creations with #ThatsFoodAndDrink and #WorldDiversityDay — we’d love to see how you're eating for the planet and celebrating culture through food.

Is the Honey You are Buying Fake? Black Bee Honey Calls for Urgent Government Action

That's Food and Drink has already recently posted about World Bee Day. But we have received some news that has genuinely disturbed us.

Because as World Bee Day approaches, on the 20th May, award-winning B Corp certified British beekeeper collective Black Bee Honey is on a mission to highlight the fact that fake honey being sold to shoppers in UK supermarkets by campaigning for more independent testing to be performed on imported honey.

Around half a million tons of honey are sold in the UK every year but its quality and its environmental impact is poor. 

Most of the honey on offer in our supermarkets is imported, with its origin often listed as “a blend of EU and non-EU honey”.  Many consumers believe the honey they're buying is 100% pure when it's actually a mix of imported blended honey.

Black Bee Honey was founded in 2010 by beekeepers Paul Webb and Chris Barnes who met in a design office 20 years ago. Their passion for bees and honey began with hives in their own back gardens and they soon discovered how delicious honey tasted straight from the hive - worlds apart from the imported honey found on supermarket shelves. Inspired, they soon left their design jobs for the rooftops and gardens of London where they cared for over a million bees and established Black Bee Honey.  

Co-founder Paul Webb told That's Food and Drink: “Adulterated or fake honey being imported into the UK has been happening for many years but it's only now coming to light. 

"It's had a massive, negative impact on UK honey producers, artificially lowering the price expectation of a very special product which takes a huge amount of time and energy to produce by bees and beekeepers. The public have been unwittingly eating sugar syrup when they think they're eating real honey which devalues the real thing further due to lack of flavour and it's also a health concern."

Pauyl went on to tell us: "We're asking for more independent testing on honey to begin to reverse the trend towards more and more cheap, fake honey and to get quality British honey back on the supermarket shelves. That's why Black Bee Honey was founded and why we'll continue to fight for British Beekeepers, their bees and the great honey they produce”.

Lynne Ingram, Chair of the Honey Authenticity Network UK, an international organisation fighting 'Fake honey' to help honey producers, consumers and bees added: “UK consumers have the right to make informed choices when purchasing honey. 

"If a product is labelled as honey, it must be exactly that, real, genuine honey, naturally collected and ripened by bees. It should not be a factory-processed product, artificially dried or containing added syrups. 

"Transparency is also essential when it comes to labelling. Vague statements like 'a blend of EU and non-EU honeys' are unhelpful and potentially misleading. Consumers deserve clear information about the true country of origin. We are calling on the authorities to take urgent action to stop the influx of cheap, adulterated honey into the UK. This includes robust testing and strong enforcement to protect both consumers and honest producers.”

Black Bee Honey's range of award-winning 100% British 'flower to jar' honeys are single source with the location and name of the beekeeper printed on every jar, so it's fully traceable.  

"Since 2020 they have been donating 2% of their turnover to the charity Plantlife for the creation of wildflower meadows, and so far have helped create over 25 acres of meadows. This work has enabled them to establish a circular business model where every jar bought creates wildflower meadows, which in turn helps bees to create honey. 

Black Bee Honey is currently listed with Ocado, Holland & Barrett, Abel & Cole and Harrods.  Their honeys are also available online at blackbeehoney.com

That's Food and Drink will be looking out for Black Bee Honey the next time we have a Holland and Barrett visit planned!

Here is the link to our previous coverage of World Bee Day https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2024/05/the-buzz-about-world-bee-day-vital-for.html

Garden – Al Fresco Dining at Home: 7 Easy BBQ Recipes That Don’t Need a Grill

There’s nothing quite like the joy of al fresco dining during the warmer months – the scent of sizzling food, the clink of glasses, the laughter of friends and family echoing across the garden. 

But what if you don’t own a grill or the unpredictable British weather plays spoilsport? 

Worry not – you can still enjoy BBQ-inspired dishes without firing up the barbie. Here are seven easy BBQ recipes that bring the flavours of summer to your plate, no grill required.

1. Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs

Juicy, sticky, and full of smoky flavour – these chicken thighs are baked to perfection in the oven. Marinate in your favourite BBQ sauce with a touch of smoked paprika, garlic, and honey, then roast until caramelised and golden. Serve with coleslaw and buttered corn for the full experience.

2. BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sliders

For a plant-based twist on pulled pork, try jackfruit. Cook tinned young green jackfruit in a skillet with onions, garlic, and a smoky BBQ sauce. Shred with a fork and serve in soft brioche buns with crunchy slaw and pickles. Ideal for garden parties and meat-free Mondays alike.

3. Smoky BBQ Chickpea Salad

Toss roasted chickpeas in a blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder for a crispy protein-packed topping to your summer salad. Mix with grilled halloumi (pan-fried indoors!), rocket, roasted peppers, and a drizzle of lemon tahini dressing for a bright, bold dish.

4. BBQ Cauliflower ‘Wings’

Cauliflower florets tossed in a spicy BBQ batter and baked until crisp are a real crowd-pleaser. Coat them in more sauce and pop them under the grill for a final blast of heat. Serve with a ranch dip and celery sticks for an irresistible finger food.

5. Foil Packet BBQ Veggies

No grill? No problem. Wrap chopped courgettes, peppers, mushrooms, and red onions in foil with a drizzle of oil, a splash of vinegar, and your favourite BBQ seasoning. Bake in the oven or cook over a hob-friendly griddle pan. Bonus – barely any washing up.

6. BBQ Sausage & Pepper Skillet

Use a heavy-based frying pan to sizzle your favourite sausages alongside strips of sweet red and yellow peppers, onions, and a glug of BBQ sauce. It’s like a summer kebab – no skewers required. Serve with flatbreads and yoghurt-mint dip.

7. BBQ Bean-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Roast whole sweet potatoes until tender, then split and stuff with a warm mix of BBQ baked beans, grated cheddar, and spring onions. Top with sour cream or vegan alternative for an effortless and filling BBQ-inspired dish.

Tips for an Al Fresco BBQ Vibe Without the Grill

Serve picnic-style with colourful bowls, gingham napkins, and string lights.

Infuse your drinks with fresh herbs like mint or rosemary for a garden-to-glass touch.

Add a smoky note using smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or chipotle chilli paste in your recipes.

Play some laid-back tunes to set the summer mood.

You don’t need a grill to enjoy BBQ favourites. With these simple, flavour-packed recipes, your garden can be the setting for easy, delicious, and memorable meals all summer long. So dust off your patio table, grab a chilled drink, and tuck in – rain or shine!

Cool and Refreshing Indoor Lunches for Hot Days

When the sun is blazing and the air feels heavy, the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven or stand over a hot stove.

But just because it's sweltering outside doesn't mean lunch has to be a soggy salad or a rushed sandwich. 

Whether you're working from home, relaxing on a weekend, or simply taking a break from the heat, these cool and refreshing indoor lunches are designed to keep you satisfied without raising your core temperature.

1. Chilled Pasta Salad with Summer Veg

Pasta salads are a classic for a reason—they’re easy to make, endlessly versatile, and best served cold. Use short pasta like fusilli or penne, and toss with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, red onion, and a handful of crumbled feta. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for a protein boost.

Tip: Make it the night before so the flavours have time to meld beautifully in the fridge.

2. Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad

This combination might sound unusual, but it’s a game-changer. Juicy watermelon and salty feta are a match made in heaven, and fresh mint adds a cooling edge. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-savoury balance that hits all the right notes.

Optional Add-on: A handful of rocket or spinach gives it a more “meal” feel without weighing it down.

3. Cold Noodle Bowls

Inspired by Asian-style noodle dishes, cold noodle bowls are flavourful, fast, and endlessly customisable. Cook soba or rice noodles, rinse with cold water, and toss with sliced cucumber, carrots, spring onions, and edamame. A dressing made from soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, and a dash of chilli flakes adds punch without heat.

Protein Ideas: Add tofu, poached chicken, or prawns for a more filling option.

4. Mediterranean Mezze Platter

If you prefer picking and grazing, a mezze-style lunch is ideal. Combine hummus, tzatziki, pita bread, falafel, olives, stuffed vine leaves, and crunchy crudités for a plateful of variety that requires zero cooking.

Bonus: Arrange everything on a large platter or board for a visual treat—you’ll feel like you’re holidaying in Greece without leaving your kitchen.

5. Caprese Sandwiches or Skewers

Tomato, mozzarella and basil—simple yet effective. Layer these classic ingredients between slices of crusty bread with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic, or skewer them for a bite-sized option. Keep them chilled until serving to make the most of their cooling effect.

6. Avocado and Prawn Lettuce Cups

Swap the bread for crisp gem lettuce leaves and fill them with a mix of mashed avocado, cooked prawns, lime juice, chopped coriander, and a hint of garlic. Light, refreshing and satisfying, these lettuce cups are perfect for a lazy lunch when you want something a bit different.

7. Fruit & Yoghurt Power Bowl

Who says lunch can’t be a bit sweet? For something lighter, a yoghurt bowl packed with fruit, granola, nuts, and seeds is both cooling and nutritious. Opt for Greek yoghurt for extra protein, and add a drizzle of honey for natural sweetness.

Keep Your Cool

Staying indoors on hot days doesn't mean compromising on flavour or nutrition. With these easy and satisfying lunch ideas, you can enjoy a cooling break from the heat while giving your body what it needs to stay energised. Don’t forget to stay hydrated—pair any of these meals with a cold glass of infused water, iced tea, or a refreshing mocktail for a full summer-at-home experience.

Have a go-to no-cook lunch for hot weather? Share it in the comments!