How come food outdoors always tastes out of this world?

We think we should eat al fresco whenever we can.  A leisurely cappucino at a pavement cafe, a spontaneous picnic in the garden, or even a BBQ on the beach - with your name on it.

In any event, the best accompaniment with a meal is dollops of fresh air.  So why not rip the cover off last year's BBQ, (or even go mad and splash out on a new one - a disposable will work just as well), and try out this season's must have recipes - our Aubergine Pesto Chicken Skewers are a great finger food.

And what male, uncle, son, nephew, father, husband, neighbour - can resist stoking the glowing embers of a barbecue?  Lead them to our delicious Olive and Tomato marinated Lamb.  It tastes all the more delicious for leaving it in the marinade for an hour or two, which allows you the perfect excuse for getting in the sunshine to do some gentle marinating yourself while you wait.

If picnics are more your cup of tea, then load up your basket, grab a rug and pick a lovely spot with a memorable view.  We'll do the rest.  How about a an Antipasti platter you can rustle up in 10 minutes?  A tasty Roasted vegetable tart for your hamper?  Or a simple Sun Dried Tomato Bread to tear and share.

Great Italian food coupled with beautiful countryside; even if you stay at home, you can still be miles away, and perhaps even transported to the vineyards and olive groves of Italy alfresco.