There’s something magical about sharing a meal outdoors as the sun dips low and the sky turns golden. Whether you’re dining on a patio, setting up a picnic by the lake, or gathering around a backyard table lit with fairy lights, al fresco dinners turn simple recipes into memorable moments.
Here are some of my favourite sunset supper recipes that are easy to prepare, light enough for warm evenings, and beautiful enough to impress your guests.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Summer Vegetables
Juicy chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, fresh rosemary, and thyme, then grilled to perfection alongside courgette, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the flavourful juices.
Caprese Salad with a Peach Twist
Swap out some of the tomatoes for ripe summer peaches for a sweet, juicy variation of the classic. Layer with mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Thread shrimp onto skewers with chunks of pineapple, brush with garlic butter, and grill until pink. Serve with a squeeze of lime for extra zing.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Fluffy couscous tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-oregano dressing. Perfect as a side or a light vegetarian main dish.
Strawberry Basil Spritzers
Mix fresh strawberries, basil leaves, sparkling water, and a splash of lemon juice. Add a touch of honey for sweetness and serve over ice.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep your outdoor table set with pitchers of water, small lanterns, and lightweight serving dishes so you can move easily between the kitchen and the table without missing a single sunset moment.
Al fresco dining is less about perfect presentation and more about savouring good food and good company in the fresh evening air. So light some candles, pour yourself a chilled drink in your favourite glass, and enjoy the colours of the sky while they last.