With summer here in Australia, the great tradition of gathering with a BYO plate of food is back. And whether it’s a picnic in the park, or backyard barbecue, easy vegetarian or plant-rich bring a plate dishes are firmly on the favourites menu.
Looking for bring a plate ideas? You’ve come to the right place!
From sides to salads, we’ve got easy recipes perfect for your gathering sorted. And the best bit? You’ll be able to find all the ingredients during your regular grocery shop – no special trips needed.
And if you join Back to Basics things get even simpler, with our one-click add-to-cart online ingredient shopping. Happy alfresco eating!
Best for…impressing
Recipe: Tomato Medley and Barbecued Haloumi Skewers
Served with chargrilled sourdough, these easy vegetarian kebabs and herby sauce are brilliant on the barbecue.
Best for…flavour
Recipe: Zesty Thai Noodle Salad
A punchy crunchy salad that pairs perfectly with Asian-inspired spicy meats, this is one way to eat colourfully.
Best for…those who still like their meat hit
Recipe: Middle Eastern Mezze Plate
Featuring cauliflower, pomegranate and one of my favourite flavours – zaatar this is fresh and made for sharing. If you don’t want to use lamb to make the meatballs, sub in turkey mince.
Best for….crowd pleasing
Recipe: Haloumi, Brown Rice and Quinoa Salad
This legume-based salad stars tangy salty haloumi and a healthy handful of mint.
Best for….families
Recipe: Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Nuggets
Kids love nuggets. So why not make them plant-rich like these cauliflower bites topped with cheese?
Best for…eating the rainbow
Recipe: Summer Rainbow Salad
A mixed leaf salad bursting with colour, this is the ultimate plus one that’ll serve as a side to hero dishes.
Best for….ease
Recipe: Baked Asparagus with Feta and Pinenuts
With a prep time of 5 minutes and cook time of 10, this lemony asparagus recipe goes from fridge to alfresco eating, fast.
Best for…a surprise ingredient
Recipe: Chicken, Strawberry and Sweet Balsamic Salad
A vibrant satisfying salad – starring yep, strawberries – that just works. Lose the chicken if you want to go meat-free.
Best for…a substantial bring a plate dish
Recipe: Pearl Couscous Pumpkin Salad
A filling dish thanks to the legumes and root veggie combo, you can also prep this one in bulk and then assemble fresh on the day.
Cooking on a budget? Get my FREE e-book with over 20 recipes under $5 a serve. Oh, and they are also healthy and delicious. You can download it here.
