Ideas for healthy summer entertaining

Published: 20 November 2024

Summer is the perfect time to gather friends and family for outdoor fun, and of course, a spread of tasty food.

With a little creativity, you can serve a delicious menu that’s both heart-friendly and bursting with summer flavours. Here are some ideas to inspire your next heart-healthy summer gathering.

Main dishes

1. BBQ chicken with lemon and parsley sauce

This BBQ chicken is the perfect blend of zesty and fresh, making it a standout dish for any summer gathering. Start by marinating skinless chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of wholegrain mustard. The lemon marinade tenderises the chicken and infuses it with a bright, tangy flavour. Once grilled to perfection, top the chicken with a fresh parsley and lemon sauce made from finely chopped parsley, lemon zest, garlic, and a light drizzle of olive oil. This dish is packed with fresh, tangy flavours and is a great way to serve lean protein. 

Tip: Serve with grilled veggies and crusty bread to complete the meal.

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2. Pesto chicken pasta salad

A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this recipe combines pasta, shredded grilled chicken, and a homemade pesto sauce (recipe below). Toss in cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and sliced black olives for a colourful, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for summer. The pesto adds a rich, satisfying flavour while keeping it light and fresh.

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3. Asparagus panzanella salad

Panzanella is a traditional Italian bread salad, and this version incorporates asparagus for added goodness. Toast whole grain bread cubes and toss them with grilled asparagus, cherry tomatoes, olives and fresh basil. This hearty salad is bursting with flavour, making it a filling yet light summer dish.

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Heart-healthy dips

1. Easy homemade pesto

Pesto is an incredibly versatile dip or sauce and making it at home lets you control the ingredients. Traditional recipes have a blend of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and a small amount of Parmesan cheese. Try our twist on this simple recipe, which can be used as a topping for grilled meats, tossed into salads, or served as a dip for whole grain crackers and veggie sticks.

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2. Moroccan dukkah 

Dukkah is a fragrant spice blend that can be used as a dip with olive oil or sprinkled over salads and grilled veggies. Made from toasted nuts, sesame seeds, and spices like coriander and cumin, dukkah adds a crunchy texture and warm, aromatic flavour. It’s a perfect pairing with fresh, crusty whole grain bread or even sprinkled over hummus for added depth.

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3. Beetroot hummus

Hummus is a classic heart-healthy dip, and this vibrant beetroot version adds a unique twist. Blend beetroot with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The beetroot not only gives the hummus a beautiful colour but also boost its antioxidant content. Serve with vegetable sticks or pita chips for a healthy, eye-catching appetizer.

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Festive Desserts

1. Summer fruit tart

This festive tart is made with an almond crust and topped with a mixture of fruits like blueberries, mango and melon. The fruits are naturally sweet and packed with fibre, making this dessert a healthier option compared with traditional heavy tarts. A light filling made from cashew cream and dark chocolate keep the tart moist and add a softness that complements the dried fruit.

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2. Summer berry trifle

Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both heart-healthy and delicious? This summer berry trifle is a perfect choice for your next gathering. Layered with vibrant fresh berries, airy sponge, and a creamy custard topping, this trifle is as easy as it is satisfying. Naturally sweetened by the fruit and balanced with protein-rich custard, it’s a dessert everyone will love. With its stunning presentation and easy preparation, this recipe proves you don’t need to compromise on flavour or health when it comes to dessert.

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Drink ideas

Don’t forget healthy drinks! Serve sparkling water infused with fresh fruits like lemon, mint, or cucumber, or prepare a pitcher of brewed fruit tea, adding ice once it is cool and garnishing with your favourite fruits.

For other alcohol-free refreshing summer drinks ideas, try:

Tips for summer entertaining

  • Focus on healthy fats. Use healthier oils and avocado in your dishes for heart-friendly fats, while avoiding butter and heavy cream.
  • Incorporate whole grains. Opt for, whole grain bread, whole grain crackers and other high-fibre grains in your meals to support heart health.
  • Go big on veggies. Fresh, colourful vegetables are high in fibre, and other heart healthy properties so make sure they’re front and centre in your salads, dips, and sides.
  • Use herbs, spices, and citrus to flavour dishes. Limit adding salt. 
  • Keep desserts light. Choose fresh, frozen and canned fruits to keep things sweet, light and refreshing. 

By incorporating these heart-healthy foods, you can enjoy a delicious summer spread that’s as good for your heart as it is for your taste buds. Happy entertaining!