Summer entertaining is all about making the most of seasonal ingredients and sharing good food with family and friends. Whether you’re planning a relaxed garden lunch, an elegant dinner party or a casual weekend gathering, choosing dishes that celebrate fresh produce can make hosting feel effortless. Chef John Gionleka, owner of Peckham Bazaar, has created a collection of summer recipes that showcase seafood, seasonal vegetables and vibrant flavours, each perfectly paired with Little Olive Oil extra virgin olive oil. From refined starters to rustic sharing dishes, these recipes offer inspiration for entertaining throughout the season.
Cured Bluefin Tuna With Borlotti Beans And Datterini Tomatoes
If you’re looking to impress guests, this elegant, cured bluefin tuna dish is a wonderful place to start. Delicate slices of tuna are paired with slow-cooked borlotti beans, sweet datterini tomatoes, fresh herbs and crisp croutons, creating a beautiful balance of flavours and textures. Finished with Little Olive Oil Kalinjot Pure extra virgin olive oil, its fresh tomato leaf notes and gentle peppery finish complement the ingredients without overpowering them. It makes an impressive starter for a summer dinner party or a sophisticated light lunch. Visit the Little Olive Oil website for the full bluefin tuna recipe.
Shetland Scallops With Sweet Peas And Broad Beans
For special occasions, John pairs hand-dived Shetland scallops with sweet peas, broad beans and a delicate scallop emulsion. This elegant dish celebrates the very best of seasonal ingredients while remaining beautifully simple. Little Olive Oil Trio Select extra virgin olive oil enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops and vegetables, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. Serve with warm sourdough and a crisp seasonal salad for a memorable summer meal. Visit the Little Olive Oil website for the full scallops recipe.
Wild Green Bourek With Strained Yoghurt
For more relaxed entertaining, this golden filo pastry filled with wild greens, feta and yoghurt is perfect for sharing. Nettles, wild rocket, wild fennel or dill bring plenty of fresh flavour, while the crisp pastry contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Served with strained yoghurt, it’s ideal as a starter, part of a summer buffet or alongside colourful salads and grilled vegetables. Little Olive Oil Koroneiki Superior extra virgin olive oil adds a gentle peppery warmth that complements the herbs and feta perfectly. Visit the Little Olive Oil website for the full savoury filo pie recipe.
Final Notes About Summer Entertaining
Great summer entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated. Seasonal ingredients, thoughtful recipes and good-quality olive oil can transform even the simplest meal into something memorable. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or a relaxed gathering in the garden, John Gionleka’s recipes offer plenty of inspiration for sharing delicious food with the people you love.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Entertaining
What are the best recipes for summer entertaining?
Seasonal dishes that make the most of fresh seafood, vegetables and herbs are always popular. Sharing platters, elegant starters and light mains work particularly well for summer gatherings.
Can these recipes be prepared in advance?
Many of the ingredients can be prepared ahead of time, making entertaining more relaxed. The bourek can also be assembled before baking, while vegetables and accompaniments for the seafood dishes can be prepared in advance.
Why is extra virgin olive oil important in summer cooking?
A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances seasonal ingredients without masking their natural flavours. It works particularly well with seafood, fresh vegetables and herbs.
Are these recipes suitable for both casual and formal entertaining?
Yes. The cured tuna and scallops are ideal for elegant occasions, while the wild green bourek is perfect for relaxed lunches, garden parties or sharing with friends.
What makes seasonal cooking ideal for summer?
Seasonal produce is naturally at its best during summer, offering fresh flavours, vibrant colours and ingredients that require very little preparation to shine.
We love this feature: Homegirl London John Gionkeka’s seasonal spring recipes with Little Olive Oil. You might also like this article: Why seasonal ingredients always taste so good.
Disclosure: The website owner is a partner in the Little Olive Oil business.