Published: 29 April 2025

Sunshine, blue skies, and that blissful feeling of not needing a coat—when the warm weather rolls in, heavy meals just won’t cut it. Whether you’re picnicking on the lawn, dining al fresco, or just can’t bear to turn the oven on, we’ve rounded up a few fresh, easy, and utterly delicious recipes that are perfect for those lazy, golden days.

So grab a shady spot, pour yourself something chilled, and let’s get cooking.

Herby Potato Salad with Beans and Peas

Forget the standard mayo-laden potato salad—this one’s lighter, greener, and bursting with flavour. Think soft new potatoes tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, with pops of sweetness from garden peas and a good handful of fresh herbs like parsley and mint.

Perfect for: BBQ side dishes, light lunches, or posh picnics.

Top tip: Serve slightly warm for extra flavour (and fewer fridge battles).

Tomato, Burrata & Broad Bean Salad

If you’ve never tried burrata before, you’re in for a treat. It’s like mozzarella’s creamier, dreamier cousin—and paired with juicy tomatoes and broad beans, it’s basically Summer on a plate. Drizzle over olive oil, scatter some basil, and you’ve got a salad that feels like it belongs in an Italian villa.

Perfect for: Impressing your guests or treating yourself (no shame).

Top tip: Use heritage tomatoes for a pop of colour and sweetness.

Chilled Cucumber Soup

Hear us out—cold soup *can* be delicious. This one’s cool, creamy, and super refreshing thanks to cucumber, yoghurt, and a squeeze of lemon. It’s also dead easy to blitz up in a blender, which means more time in the sun and less time sweating over the stove.

Perfect for: Starter courses, garden lunches, or when it’s too hot to function.

Top tip: Add a few crushed ice cubes for an extra chill factor.

Hot Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad

This one’s a winner when you need something filling but not heavy. Flaky hot smoked salmon, al dente pasta, rocket, capers, and a zesty dressing—simple, satisfying, and no reheating required.

Perfect for: Midweek meals or packing up for a picnic at Holker Gardens.

Top tip: Add a squeeze of lemon and a crack of black pepper just before serving.

Frozen Yoghurt Bark

Fancy something sweet but not too heavy? This frozen yoghurt bark is a doddle to make and looks gorgeous too. Just spread Greek yoghurt onto a tray, swirl in a bit of honey, scatter over berries, nuts, or granola, and freeze. Once solid, snap it into pieces and enjoy.

Perfect for: Guilt-free snacking or cooling off after a day in the garden.

Top tip: Kids love helping with this one—and eating it too!

Bonus Idea: Build-Your-Own Mezze Board

Not a recipe as such, but it deserves a mention! Mix and match your favourites: hummus, olives, falafel, tabbouleh, flatbreads, grilled veggies, tzatziki—you name it. It’s fun, low-effort, and totally adaptable depending on what you fancy.

Perfect for: Sharing under the shade of a big tree with a jug of Pimm’s.

Top tip: Keep it colourful and varied—half the joy is in the picking and nibbling.

Bring a Taste of Summer to Your Plate

Whether you’re hosting a garden gathering or just soaking up some solo sun, these warm-weather recipes are guaranteed to keep things cool, fresh, and full of flavour. And remember, food always tastes better outside (especially with a view of Holker’s glorious gardens, if we do say so ourselves).

Plan your visit to Holker Hall & Gardens here.