The shade of the patio is welcome in the heat – here are some tips for taking your luncheon outdoors: –

Keeping the decorations fresh and light is key – here we have used pale blue dinnerware, lots of fresh greenery picked from the garden, linen napkins, small terracotta pots and jars of fresh lemons – the essence of Summer.

Your menu should reflect lighter eating – here are some suggestions: –

Individual terracotta pots with nut mix – 5 Minute Caramelised Nuts

Cheese platters with various cheeses, olives, crackers, relishes and fresh fruit. Don’t overfill these – less is more. In the heat, cheese will get soft and sweaty quickly, so keep it on ice as long as you can before serving.

Pizzas: – Mozzarella Tomato Pizza OR Easy Pizza Brunch and top with fresh rocket and avocado, drizzle with balsamic glaze Balsamic Glaze.

Salmon: –  Citrus Salmon Side with Herb Butter served on top of grilled asparagus and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds and red onion, and drizzled with the herb butter.

For drinks it is fun to do a variety to suit all tastes: –

Cranberry Maple Bourbon Sour

Basil Watermelon Smash Mocktail

Pear Cocktail

Passionfruit Mojito

For a spectacular finish – start with a layered cake covered with a creamy frosting: –

Lemon Blueberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

And decorate by adding handmade chocolate feathers to the side – there are many tutorials online!

Some tips to bear in mind when doing a menu for outdoor summer eating: –

Make sure food that is left over, that you would like to keep, is wrapped and placed on ice as soon as possible.

It is a good idea to bring a large water receptacle – and remind guests to help themselves.

Don’t overestimate the amount of food you will need – food spoils very quickly in the heat and it will only be wasted.