Always Check Your Bills and Receipts: Lessons from a £1,600 Wine Blunder

When dining out, it's easy to get swept up in the ambience – the chatter, the clinking of glasses, the enticing aromas wafting from the kitchen. 

But before you pay and leave, there's one small but crucial step you should never skip: check your bill and your receipt.

A Costly Mistake: The £1,600 Wine Incident

Recently, a diner in a UK restaurant got a nasty shock when she discovered she'd been charged over £1,600 for a single bottle of wine – one that should have cost just £16. 

What was meant to be a modest treat turned into a four-figure fiasco, all due to a simple human error. 

While the mistake was eventually rectified, it raised an important point: mistakes happen, and they can be expensive.

Why Checking Your Receipt Matters

1. Human Error Is Common

Waitstaff are only human, and input errors can easily occur during busy shifts. Whether it's a decimal point in the wrong place or an incorrect item added, the wrong figure on your bill can go unnoticed unless you take a moment to double-check.

2. Protect Your Budget

Dining out is a luxury for many, especially with the rising cost of living. An accidental overcharge – even by £5 or £10 – adds up over time. Spotting these errors protects your wallet and ensures you're only paying for what you ordered.

3. Avoid Awkward Aftermaths

In the case of the £1,600 wine mishap, the diner didn’t notice until it was too late. Imagine trying to get that resolved days later. It’s far easier to sort out issues while still at the table, when both staff and systems are in place to fix the problem immediately.

4. Build Better Dining Awareness

Checking your receipt also gives you a clearer sense of pricing – not just whether you were charged correctly, but whether that side salad really was £9, or the service charge was optional. It’s part of becoming a more conscious and empowered consumer.

How to Check Efficiently

Take 30 seconds before paying to scan the receipt.

Look for obvious errors: number of items, prices, service charges.

Ask politely if something looks off – most staff will appreciate the heads-up and fix it without fuss.

Pay attention to wine or drinks especially, as these are often the costliest items and most prone to confusion due to similar names or vintages.

Final Thought

A meal out should be a treat, not a trap. While the story of the £1,600 wine might seem extreme, it’s a cautionary tale that highlights the importance of vigilance. Next time you’re out, take a breath before you tap your card or hand over your cash. A quick check could save you more than just money – it could save you a headache.

Celebrating 80 Years of the Vegan Society: A Legacy of Compassion, Health, and Change

In 1944, a small group of visionaries came together in the UK with a radical idea: to live entirely without animal products – not just in diet, but in all aspects of life. 

From that seed of compassion and conviction, The Vegan Society was born. This year marks 80 years since that historic moment, and it’s a milestone well worth celebrating.

The Birth of a Movement

Founded by Donald Watson and his peers, The Vegan Society coined the term “vegan” by taking the first and last letters of “vegetarian” – symbolising the beginning and end of the vegetarian journey. What started as a fringe lifestyle embraced by a few passionate individuals has since blossomed into a global movement.

Back then, veganism was misunderstood and often mocked. Today, it's mainstream, and the UK is one of the leading nations in the world for vegan innovation, products, and advocacy.

80 Years of Advocacy and Progress

Over the past eight decades, The Vegan Society has:

Campaigned tirelessly for animal welfare and ethical treatment.

Promoted plant-based living as a sustainable, health-conscious lifestyle.

Supported the development of vegan food standards and the now-familiar Vegan Trademark, helping consumers identify genuine vegan products.

Pushed for institutional change, working with schools, hospitals, and businesses to increase plant-based options and raise awareness.

Their legacy includes ground-breaking resources, educational campaigns, and a strong sense of community for vegans and the vegan-curious alike.

A Time for Reflection and Celebration

As we mark this 80-year milestone, it’s worth reflecting on just how much has changed. Veganism is no longer niche – it’s now a lifestyle embraced by millions, with supermarkets, restaurants, and even fast-food chains offering vegan options as standard.

Events across the UK and beyond are celebrating the Society’s anniversary, from plant-based food festivals to panel discussions on the future of ethical living. It's also a time to look ahead: towards a world where plant-based choices are not just available, but normalised and celebrated.

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever

In the face of climate change, global food insecurity, and continued exploitation of animals, the principles the Vegan Society was founded on are more relevant than ever. Choosing plant-based living is a personal act of kindness, but it's also a powerful tool for systemic change.

Join the Celebration

Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, a flexitarian, or just curious about reducing your impact, this anniversary is a chance to:

Try a new vegan dish

Support a vegan charity or business

Read about the history of veganism

Share your own journey or thoughts online using #VeganSociety80

Let’s raise a (plant-based) toast to The Vegan Society: 80 years of standing up for animals, people, and the planet.

Tastes of the West Midlands: Celebrating the Rich Culinary Heritage of Birmingham, the Black Country and Beyond

The West Midlands is a region rich in cultural fusion, industrial heritage, and a deep love of hearty, flavour-packed food. 

From the bustling streets of Birmingham to the characterful towns of the Black Country, and across the wider Midlands, you'll find a table groaning with delicacies that reflect the area’s diversity, resilience and creativity.

1. The Balti – Birmingham’s Signature Dish

You simply can't talk about Birmingham's food scene without mentioning the iconic Balti curry. Invented in the city during the 1970s by Pakistani and Kashmiri chefs, the Balti is cooked quickly over a high flame and served in the steel bowl (or "balti") it was cooked in. 

The Balti Triangle – comprising Ladypool Road, Stoney Lane, and Stratford Road – remains a culinary destination for curry lovers from across the UK.

2. Faggots and Peas – Black Country Soul Food

In the Black Country, traditional fare like faggots and peas still holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals. Faggots are savoury meatballs made from pork offal, mixed with herbs and breadcrumbs, and smothered in onion gravy. Served with mushy peas and chips, it's comfort food at its finest.

3. Groaty Dick – The Midlands' Best-Kept Secret

This quirky-sounding dish has serious history. Groaty Dick is a slow-cooked Black Country stew made with groats (hulled oats), leeks, onions and beef – a winter warmer often enjoyed on Guy Fawkes Night. Though not as common today, it’s a reminder of the region's humble yet resourceful cooking traditions.

4. Pork Scratchings – The Proper Midlands Pub Snack

Ask any Midlands local and they'll swear by a good bag of pork scratchings. These crispy, salty bites are often made with thick pork rind and seasoned to perfection. Traditionally found in Black Country pubs, they’re now a nationwide favourite – but many say the best still come from the West Midlands.

5. Coventry Godcakes and Shrewsbury Biscuits

The sweet side of the Midlands also has its stars. Coventry Godcakes, triangular puff pastry parcels filled with mincemeat, were traditionally given by godparents to their godchildren. Meanwhile, Shrewsbury biscuits – crisp, buttery treats often flavoured with lemon zest or dried fruit – hail from the Shropshire town of the same name.

6. Birmingham Markets – A Melting Pot of Flavour

Birmingham’s Bull Ring Markets are a haven for food lovers. From Caribbean patties to Polish sausages, Punjabi samosas to artisan cheese, the markets reflect the region’s multicultural makeup. If you're a fan of trying something new, this is the place to graze.

7. Staffordshire Oatcakes – A Versatile Midlands Staple

Further afield, but still proudly part of the West Midlands identity, the Staffordshire oatcake is not to be confused with its Scottish namesake. These are soft, crepe-like savoury pancakes made with oatmeal and often stuffed with cheese, bacon, mushrooms or sausages. They're loved for breakfast or lunch – or any time, really.

8. Midlands Brewing and Cider Traditions

Let’s not forget the drinks. The West Midlands has seen a resurgence of craft breweries and traditional cider houses. Bathams, Holden’s, and Sadler’s are just a few of the Black Country’s legendary names in brewing. And if you’re out in Herefordshire or Worcestershire, expect proper scrumpy cider served in a pint jug with no frills.

Final Thoughts

The West Midlands is a region that embraces its past while celebrating innovation, and nowhere is this more apparent than on the plate. Whether you’re tucking into a spicy Balti, dipping oatcakes in brown sauce, or savouring a Godcake with your tea, you’re taking part in a rich culinary story that reflects the people, the place and the pride of this unique part of Britain.

Borderfields Serve Up a Banquet of New Recipes

A spokesperson for Borderfields told That's Food and Drink: "With Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil gaining popularity across the nation's kitchens, we have developed a new batch of recipes incorporating Borderfields range of infused oils. 

"Award-winning Chef Rachel Green has perfectly preened and curated a mouth-watering selection of dishes whilst award-winning photographer Michael Powell has captured the visual splendour."

A picnic favourite and vegetarian too, Courgette and Feta Fritters with Tzatziki, or for a light lunch, Rachel has created a Cauliflower Soup with Caramelised Cauliflower adding a kick with Borderfields Chilli Oil.

For a supper treat, Thyme Chicken Schnitzel with Fennel, Apple and Pecan Slaw or a Spiced Beef Bourguignon with Roasted Sprouts, both have been given a makeover with Borderfields Smoked Chipotle and Aromatic Thyme infusions.

The last of the new recipes are a delicious autumnal Butternut Squash, Stilton and Red Onion Tart and an afternoon tea or coffee break accompaniment, Vegan Tahini and Date Banana Bread.

Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil has been celebrated for its versatility, smooth flavour and for boasting the highest smoke point of between 230-260 degrees Celsius making it ideal for frying, roasting and baking. Because Cold Pressed Rapeseed isn't refined or processed, it's suitable for both hot and cold cooking applications. As well as being able to fry, roast and bake with it, it's also perfect as a dipping oil, or for drizzling over a salad or pasta dish.

Beyond its many and varied culinary uses, rapeseed provides an essential income stream for UK farmers and helps reduce reliance on imports. It contributes to crop rotation systems and improving soil health. Additionally, the vibrant yellow flowers are a vital source of nectar for bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity and ecosystems across the countryside.

Time for an oil change - www.borderfields.co.uk

The Beefy Boys and Nozstock Launch Beef Stock Festival in Herefordshire

Herefordshire's award-winning grill masters, The Beefy Boys, have announced the launch of Beef Stock, a brand-new one-day food and music festival in collaboration with Nozstock Festival. 

The event will take over the iconic Nozstock site in Bromyard, Herefordshire, on Saturday 16th August 2025.

Beef Stock promises to be a bold new addition to the summer events calendar, bringing together live-fire BBQ demonstrations, smoky street food, local producers, live music, DJs, and more.

Food lovers can expect a fire-powered feast of low 'n' slow cooked briskets, sizzling Tomahawk steaks, whole BBQ chickens, and saucy sides across multiple Beefy Boys stations, joined by top-tier guest vendors includingGurt Wings, Doughzy Mares Pizza and Jerk Bay Ltd.

Some of the UK's most exciting BBQ names will hit the Live Fire Demo Stage for tutorials, tips, and tricks. Guests include The Beefy Boys' co-founder Murf, Tubby Tom, Simon Morley (Under The Nut Tree), Ashley Tunley (Big Smoke BBQ), Anthony Legge (Legges Butchers) plus more to be announced.

Beyond the grills, visitors can browse a buzzing marketplace of local traders, artisan butchers, BBQ brands, and food producers. There'll also be interactive cookery stalls and a fiery chilli-eating contest from the infamous Clifton Chilli Club.

Meanwhile, the Nozstock team will bring its signature sparkle to the event with an exciting programme full of performance, play, and serious recreation. Visitors can expect a range of family-friendly entertainment, music from the likes of Foreign Affairs, and of course, a little bit of the infamous Nozstock magic.

“We wanted to create something that brings together everything we're passionate about: food, fire, friends, and good music,” Anthony 'Murf' Murphy, co-founder of The Beefy Boys told That's Food and Drink. 

He ginished by saying: “We've cooked at festivals across the country, and now it's time to throw our own, and Nozstock is the perfect place to do it.”

Tickets for Beef Stock are just £10, with those aged 12 and under admitted free. Early booking is strongly advised.

Beef Stock tickets are now on sale at:  https://ww2.theticketsellers.co.uk/buy-tickets/beef-stock-2025/10058883

Party Panic Averted! How to Put Emergency Plans in Place for Your Next Event

Whether you're hosting a garden barbecue, a milestone birthday bash or a festive gathering, parties don’t always go to plan — and that’s perfectly normal. 

But a bit of advance preparation can save the day if things do take a turn. From weather woes to unexpected dropouts, here’s how to create solid emergency plans so your party keeps going without a hitch.

1. Have a Back-Up Venue or Shelter

If you're planning an outdoor event, especially in the UK where the weather is famously unpredictable, make sure you have a wet-weather plan. This might be:

A gazebo or marquee in the garden

A space indoors you can clear and dress up

A last-minute booking option at a local hall or pub

Even a few parasols or umbrellas can be a game-changer during a sudden downpour.

2. Food & Drink Contingencies

You don’t need to cater for double the guests “just in case,” but you do need a plan for food emergencies:

Have some frozen party food on standby

Keep a list of local takeaways that can deliver quickly

Pre-agree with a local deli or supermarket for emergency platters

And always double check that dietary needs are covered in case your original caterer cancels or fails to deliver.

3. Guest Dropouts and Unexpected Plus-Ones

People will cancel. Others may bring unexpected guests. To manage the numbers:

Overestimate your food and drink a little

Have a few extra chairs and plates on standby

Keep games and activities flexible so that they work with any group size

4. Power Cuts and Tech Fails

If your event depends on music, lighting or digital presentations:

Fully charge Bluetooth speakers and phones the day before

Have a power bank or two handy

Make a party playlist downloadable and accessible offline

Consider a few unplugged backup games — charades, trivia, or cards never go out of style

5. Health & Safety Essentials

Someone cutting themselves on a broken glass or a child getting too close to the BBQ can put a dampener on any gathering. Prepare by:

Having a first aid kit clearly accessible

Ensuring someone present knows basic first aid

Keeping children and pets away from cooking areas

Making sure torches, spare batteries and a phone are nearby

6. Clear Communication

Let guests know what to expect. If you're moving the party indoors due to weather or changing venues last-minute:

Use a group chat or WhatsApp broadcast list

Have your phone fully charged and ready for calls and texts

Print or post a sign at the original venue with the new location details

7. Emergency Entertainment Kit

Sometimes the music flops, the garden games sink in mud, or the magician doesn’t show. That’s where your emergency entertainment comes in:

A stash of board games or card games

A quiz you can host yourself

Printed activity sheets or crafts for kids

A couple of go-to party games that don’t require equipment (like “Would You Rather” or “Two Truths and a Lie”)

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to expect the worst — but being ready for hiccups makes you a hosting hero. Your guests won’t remember the minor drama; they’ll remember how seamlessly everything still came together. With a good emergency plan, your parties will be less stressful and more successful — whatever life (or the weather) throws at you.

Why Vitamin B12 Deficiency Can Be a Serious Issue

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient your body needs to function properly. 

It plays a crucial role in red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. 

Despite its importance, vitamin B12 deficiency is surprisingly common — and it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

What Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

There are several reasons why someone might become deficient in B12:

Dietary deficiencies – Those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet are at higher risk, as B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.

Absorption problems – Conditions such as pernicious anaemia, coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, or certain gastrointestinal surgeries can interfere with B12 absorption.

Ageing – As we age, our ability to absorb B12 from food naturally decreases.

Medication use – Long-term use of certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), metformin, or antacids, can impact absorption.

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency can be sneaky. Early symptoms are often mild and easy to dismiss. However, if the deficiency progresses, symptoms can become severe and even irreversible.

Common symptoms include:

Fatigue and weakness

Pale or jaundiced skin

Pins and needles (paraesthesia)

Mouth ulcers and glossitis (a swollen, inflamed tongue)

Shortness of breath and dizziness

Blurred vision

Mood changes, irritability, or depression

Memory loss or cognitive difficulties

Unsteady movements and balance issues

Left untreated, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to permanent nerve damage, neurological problems, and megaloblastic anaemia, where red blood cells become too large and can't function properly.

Why It’s Especially Important in Certain Populations

Certain groups are more vulnerable to B12 deficiency and should monitor their levels closely:

Vegans and vegetarians: Without fortified foods or supplements, plant-based diets may lack sufficient B12.

Older adults: Absorption issues become more prevalent with age.

People with gastrointestinal disorders: Diseases like Crohn’s or those who have undergone bariatric surgery can affect B12 uptake.

Pregnant women: Deficiency can impact the baby’s development and increase the risk of neural tube defects.

How to Prevent and Treat B12 Deficiency

Dietary sources of B12 include beef, liver, fish, dairy, and eggs. Fortified cereals and plant milks can also help.

For those at risk, B12 supplements are a safe and effective way to prevent deficiency. These come in tablet form, sublingual (under the tongue), or via injections in more severe cases. The NHS may prescribe B12 injections if deficiency is due to absorption issues or pernicious anaemia.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience ongoing fatigue, memory issues, mood changes, or any of the symptoms listed above, speak to your GP. A simple blood test can diagnose a B12 deficiency, and early detection is key to preventing long-term damage.

In Summary

Vitamin B12 deficiency is more common than many realise and can have significant, even permanent, effects on your health if not addressed. With the right awareness, dietary adjustments, and medical support, it is entirely manageable. Whether you follow a plant-based diet or simply want to protect your wellbeing, understanding the role of B12 could make a huge difference to your long-term health.

No-Mess Snacks for Summer Road Trips: Tasty Treats Without the Crumbs or mess

Summer road trips are all about freedom—the open road, scenic pitstops, spontaneous playlists, and laughter with loved ones. 

But there’s one thing that can put a damper on the fun: the dreaded snack mess. Sticky fingers, crumbs in the crevices, and half-opened packets sliding under seats can quickly turn your car into a mobile mess hall.

Here’s your solution: no-mess snacks that are easy to pack, simple to eat, and won't have you hunting for wet wipes at every service station. 

Whether you're road-tripping across the Lake District or heading down to the Cornish coast, these snacks are here to keep things clean and tasty.

1. Cheese Cubes or Babybels

Pre-portioned cheese is not only satisfying but also low-mess and high in protein. Go for individually wrapped mini cheese rounds, cheese strings, or cubes in a reusable container. Pair with crackers if you're confident they won't crumble!

2. Dried Fruit

Unlike fresh fruit, which can get sticky and attract wasps at every pitstop, dried fruit is neat and fuss-free. Try mango, apricots, raisins, or banana chips. Just keep portions sensible as they’re sugar-dense.

3. Trail Mix (No Chocolate!)

Trail mix is a classic, but avoid chocolate in warm weather—unless you fancy smearing it on your steering wheel. Opt for a mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Make your own and store it in resealable bags or snack tubs.

4. Mini Wraps or Roll-Ups

Small wraps filled with ham, cheese, hummus, or grilled veg are perfect finger food. Slice them into bite-sized pinwheels for a no-drip, no-crumble lunch option that travels well in a cooler bag.

5. Veggie Sticks & Hummus Pots

Cut-up cucumber, carrot sticks, celery or mini sweet peppers make for crisp, refreshing snacks. Pair them with individual hummus pots to keep dipping clean and portioned.

6. Plain Popcorn

Popcorn is surprisingly neat—just steer clear of greasy or heavily flavoured varieties. Choose lightly salted or plain versions and serve in lidded cups or paper cones for easy handling.

7. Muffin Tin Frittatas

Bake up some mini frittatas in a muffin tin before you leave. They’re tidy, protein-packed, and keep well in a cooler. Use leftovers like spinach, cheese, cherry tomatoes or cooked bacon.

8. Pretzel Sticks

Crunchy, salty, and way less crumbly than crisps, pretzel sticks are a great travel companion. Plus, they’re not greasy, so no need for post-snack hand wipes.

9. Hard-Boiled Eggs (Pre-Peeled)

Packed with energy and protein, hard-boiled eggs are perfect—so long as they’re peeled and stored in a sealed container to avoid any odour issues. Sprinkle with salt and pepper just before serving.

10. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter Dip

Pre-sliced apples with a small tub of peanut or almond butter makes for a fresh, satisfying snack. To keep the apples from browning, splash them with a bit of lemon juice before storing.

11. Mini individual porkpies. Kept in a cooler box or cooler bag these make very nifty, tasty snacks.

Top Tips for Mess-Free Snacking on the Go

Pack a Rubbish Bag: A small plastic or reusable bag for wrappers and leftovers keeps the car tidy.

Use Silicone Muffin Cases or Bento Boxes: These help portion snacks without waste or spills.

Bring Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitiser: Just in case, especially after savoury snacks.

Freeze Bottles of Water: They double as cool packs and give you ice-cold drinks later in the day.

No one wants to spend their summer hoovering car seats. With a little planning, your snacks can be as smooth as your playlist. Happy road-tripping!

Perfect Pairings: Summer Wines and Garden Nibbles

As summer sunshine pours across the garden and the scent of cut grass fills the air, it’s the perfect time to enjoy relaxed gatherings with light bites and a chilled glass of wine in hand. 

Whether you’re hosting a garden party, heading to a picnic, or simply indulging in an alfresco evening, pairing the right summer wines with seasonal nibbles can elevate your experience from pleasant to sublime. 

Here’s how to get it just right.

1. Rosé & Charcuterie

A classic Provençal rosé—pale, dry and crisp—is practically made for sharing with charcuterie boards. The refreshing acidity cuts through the richness of cured meats like prosciutto and salami, while complementing mild cheeses, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Top Tip: Add slices of juicy melon or fresh figs to your board for a sweet note that pairs beautifully with rosé’s fruity undertones.

2. Sauvignon Blanc & Garden Pea Bruschetta

Zesty and herbaceous, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc is a fantastic match for vibrant garden vegetables. Try a topping of crushed garden peas with mint, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of sea salt on toasted sourdough. This light, fresh combo echoes the wine’s green notes and brings the garden to your plate.

3. Pinot Grigio & Seafood Bites

Light and crisp with a subtle fruitiness, Pinot Grigio is an ideal companion for seafood nibbles. Think prawn skewers, calamari, or even smoked mackerel pâté on crackers. The clean profile of the wine lets delicate flavours shine without overpowering them.

Serving Suggestion: Add a squeeze of lemon to your seafood for extra brightness that mirrors the wine's citrus edge.

4. Sparkling Wine & Cheese Straws

English sparkling wine, now winning awards left and right, is a celebration in a glass. Its lively bubbles and dry finish pair wonderfully with salty, savoury snacks like puff pastry cheese straws or mini quiches. The fizz cuts through the richness for a perfectly balanced bite.

Why not try? A sparkling rosé with goats’ cheese and beetroot tartlets for a chic twist.

5. Chardonnay & Grilled Veg Skewers

A lightly oaked Chardonnay can stand up to more substantial garden nibbles, like grilled courgette, aubergine, peppers, and halloumi. The toasty vanilla notes from the oak pair deliciously with the charred flavour of barbecue veg.

Garnish With: Fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to tie it all together.

6. Dessert Wine & Strawberries

No summer garden party is complete without strawberries—and when paired with a sweet dessert wine like Muscat or Sauternes, the result is irresistible. The lush sweetness of the wine enhances the juicy berries, especially when served with meringue or a scoop of clotted cream.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to summer wine and nibble pairings, think light, fresh, and seasonal. Keep wines well chilled, serve nibbles in small, pretty portions, and don’t be afraid to experiment with combinations that reflect your own garden’s bounty. After all, the best part of summer sipping is enjoying it at your own pace, with good company and the hum of bees in the background.

Cheers to summer!

Creative Summer Salads That Eat Like a (Real) Meal

When the sun is shining and the temperatures are soaring, the last thing you want is to slave over a hot stove. 

But that doesn’t mean settling for a boring bowl of leaves. A summer salad can be just as satisfying and substantial as any main course — the secret is in the ingredients and the creativity. 

Here’s your guide to making creative summer salads that eat like a meal — no sad side dishes here!

Why Choose a Meal-Worthy Salad?

A great summer salad is:

Nutrient-rich: Packed with fresh vegetables, fruits, proteins, and grains.

Cooling: No need for ovens or long cook times.

Customisable: Works with whatever’s in your fridge or garden.

Perfect for leftovers: Many of these salads taste even better the next day.

Six Creative Summer Salads That’ll Fill You Up

1. Grilled Peach & Chicken Salad with Feta and Rocket

A sweet-and-savoury twist, this salad layers grilled chicken breast with juicy peaches, creamy feta, and peppery rocket. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and toss in toasted almonds for crunch.

Why it works: The protein from chicken and cheese makes it a hearty option, while the peaches keep it summery and fresh.

2. Mediterranean Chickpea & Halloumi Bowl

Pan-fried halloumi meets chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives. Dress with lemon juice, olive oil, and a dash of za’atar or oregano.

Why it works: High-protein chickpeas plus the salty chew of halloumi makes this meat-free but filling.

3. Thai Beef Salad with Crunchy Veg

Thin slices of grilled steak served cold with shredded carrots, cabbage, red pepper, and fresh mint. Dress with lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of chilli for a zingy finish.

Why it works: The balance of protein, spice, and crunch is incredibly satisfying and full of flavour.

4. Pesto Orzo Salad with Roasted Veg and Mozzarella

Orzo pasta tossed in basil pesto, with roasted courgette, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. Add in torn mozzarella or burrata for creaminess.

Why it works: The pasta adds bulk, while the pesto keeps it rich without being heavy. Serve cold or at room temperature.

5. Tuna Niçoise with a Twist

Swap the traditional boiled spuds for grilled baby new potatoes. Layer with green beans, soft-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, olives, and tinned tuna.

Why it works: A classic French staple — it's naturally balanced, protein-packed, and ideal for prepping ahead.

6. Watermelon, Quinoa, and Feta Salad

A surprise entry, but one that’s increasingly popular. Combine cooked quinoa with cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, mint, and cucumber. A splash of lime juice seals the deal.

Why it works: Light and cooling, but quinoa adds enough heft to keep you full for hours.

Top Tips for Building Your Own “Meal-Worthy” Salad

Start with a base: Think grains (quinoa, farro, couscous), pulses (lentils, chickpeas), or protein-rich leaves (spinach, kale).

Add protein: Tinned fish, grilled meat, hard-boiled eggs, tofu, or beans all work well.

Think texture: Add crunch with nuts, seeds, croutons, or raw veg.

Dress it up: A good dressing ties everything together — try yoghurt-based, vinaigrettes, or tahini-based blends.

Make it colourful: A range of colours often means a range of nutrients (and it just looks better on the plate).

Perfect for Picnics, Packed Lunches & Alfresco Dinners

These salads are ideal for summer gatherings — whether it’s a picnic in the park, a barbecue side dish, or a make-ahead lunch. They travel well, can be served cold, and are generally crowd-pleasers.

Final Thought

A salad doesn’t have to be a starter or a side. With the right ingredients, it becomes a vibrant, complete meal — full of texture, flavour, and seasonal freshness. This summer, ditch the dull and dig into something deliciously different.