BBQ recipes to take summertime feasting to a new level
Stuck for ideas for your BBQ over the public holiday? From seafood to succulent meats and vibrant sides, discover the best recipes for summertime feasting, including tips from grilling master Lennox Hastie.
A barbecue isn’t just a meal—it’s an occasion that brings people together. Whether you’re gathering with friends on a sunny afternoon or celebrating the long weekend with family, the right dishes can make all the difference. In this collection, we’ve curated standout recipes to inspire your next BBQ.
From grilling master Lennox Hastie’s barbecued Murray cod, smoky pork ribs, and tender spring lamb cutlets to fresh sides like a nectarine and prosciutto salad or a hearty Greek grains dish, there’s something here for everyone.
BBQ chicken and meat options
There’s something undeniably satisfying about cooking meat on the barbecue. Whether you’re grilling, smoking, or slow-cooking, the BBQ allows you to create dishes with the unique depth of smoky, charred flavours. For those who enjoy a classic roast dinner, many of the same principles apply here, offering an easy transition from oven to outdoor grill.
How to cook meat on the barbecue
A barbecue is much more than just a grill; it’s an oven, a smoker, and a culinary powerhouse. To unlock its full potential, a little preparation goes a long way. With the right techniques and attention to detail, you can elevate your BBQ game and create something truly memorable. Learn how to cook steak to perfection.
BBQ chook
Over the years, Lennox Hastie has developed a repertoire of simple, go-to dishes that are perfect for casual gatherings. One of Hastie’s favourites is roasted chicken combined with lemon and herbs - a simple celebration of summer and a taste of the outdoors.
Get the recipe for Lennox Hastie’s roast chicken here.
BBQ pork ribs
In Texas, barbecue is more than just a cooking method – it’s a way of life, steeped in family traditions and nostalgia. This recipe pays homage to the bold, smoky flavours of Texan ribs, served best with classic sides like potato salad, slaw, or corn pudding.
Get the recipe for Lennox Hastie’s bbq pork ribs here.
Barbecued spring lamb cutlets
Few things capture the essence of summer like grilling lamb cutlets on the barbecue. The intense heat of the grill locks in tenderness while adding a smoky char that highlights the lamb’s natural flavour. Simple, quick, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the recipe for Lennox Hastie’s barbecued spring lamb cutlets here.
Seafood recipes
In Australia, seafood is known to take centre stage on the BBQ, offering fresh, vibrant, and often indulgent flavours that balance the summer perfectly. Whether you’re grilling fish, octopus, or shellfish, these recipes celebrate the best of what the ocean has to offer.
Barbecued Murray cod
In a world of constant change, the Murray cod stands as a symbol of Australia’s enduring natural beauty and heritage. Found in the waters of the Murray-Darling Basin, this majestic fish is as remarkable in flavour as it is in appearance, with its emerald and olive hues and distinctive mottled patterns. Grilled to perfection, Murray cod delivers a taste as timeless and resilient as the landscape it calls home.
Get the recipe for Lennox Hastie’s barbecued Murray Cod here.
Grilled octopus
Barbecuing octopus is a simple yet spectacular way to celebrate summer. The high heat of the grill transforms its flesh, locking in tenderness while imparting a smoky char. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether served as a starter or alongside your main spread.
Get the recipe for Lennox Hastie’s grilled octopus here.
Prawn and cray roll
This iconic roll was created during the Melbourne lockdowns of early 2020, born out of a desire to offer a takeaway treat with a luxurious twist. Combining the sweetness of prawns with the indulgence of crayfish, this recipe has since become a signature favourite. Perfect for a BBQ feast or a quick bite, it’s an undeniable showstopper.
Get the recipe for prawn and cray rolls here.
Vegetarian options
Whether you’re catering for plant-based eaters or simply looking to lighten up your BBQ spread, these vegan and vegetarian dishes are packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients that everyone will enjoy.
Aubergines roasted with tahinia
Eggplant, or aubergine, is a wonderfully versatile vegetable, but it truly shines when roasted or charred to smoky perfection. This dish, reminiscent of the classic baba ghanouj, is a summer standout. Whether served as an appetiser or part of a shared table, its bold flavors and creamy tahini dressing make it a guaranteed hit.
Get the recipe for Fadi Kattan’s aubergines roasted with tahinia here.
Stuffed tomatoes
Rice-stuffed tomatoes are a timeless crowd-pleaser, delivering comfort and flavor in equal measure. This recipe pairs the natural sweetness of baked tomatoes with a savory, herb-infused rice filling. It’s a simple yet elegant addition to any vegetarian BBQ spread.
Get the recipe for Elizabeth Hewson’s rice-stuffed tomatoes here.
German inspired potato salad
Lighter than its mayo-based counterpart, this southern German-style potato salad is dressed with oil and broth, making it both fresh and satisfying. A twist of pancetta adds a touch of indulgence, while chopped cucumbers bring a refreshing crunch.
Get the recipe for Yotam Ottolenghi’s potato salad here.
The perfect side dish
The key to choosing a standout side dish is minimal effort with maximum appeal. As Geordie Gray notes, the decision comes down to three critical factors: ease of transport, suitability for various temperatures, and visual impact. The dishes below check all those boxes.
Nectarine & prosciutto salad
Adding fruit to salads is a game-changer, and nectarines or peaches provide a delightful balance of sweetness and tang. This quick and refreshing summer dish pairs juicy nectarines with prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, and fresh mint. The result? A vibrant and crowd-pleasing side that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
Get the recipe for nectarine & prosciutto salad here.
Ancient Greek grains salad
Barley has been a cornerstone of the Greek diet since ancient times, used in everything from bread to beverages. In this modern twist, barley forms the foundation of a nutrient-packed salad. Rich in dietary fibre, low GI, and high in vitamin B1, barley is paired with protein-rich puy lentils for a satisfying, healthful option.
Get the recipe for Kon Karapanagiotidis’s Ancient Greek Grains salad here.
Tomato and broad bean salad
This salad is sunshine on a plate. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors bring a sense of joy to any gathering. Serve it alongside your BBQ spread and relish how it elevates the table with its healthy, feel-good vibes.
Get the recipe for Michael Rantissi & Kristy Frawley tomato and broad bean salad here.
Want more summer dinner party ideas? Check out these easy rice recipes or summer salad recipes. For more recipes, go to theaustralian.com.au/life/food-drink.
