Donal Skehan’s Quick Summer Platters Perfect for Entertaining

Celebrating summer with delicious, uncomplicated meals is the focus of renowned chef and food writer Donal Skehan, who recently shared a collection of vibrant recipes that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. These dishes are designed to showcase seasonal ingredients while providing an effortless dining experience, perfect for warm evenings paired with chilled rosé.

The first dish highlighted is a refreshing Crunchy Rice Noodles with Greens Salad. This quick recipe features flat rice noodles tossed with a zesty dressing that can be blended in mere seconds. Adding edamame and avocado not only enhances the dish’s nutritional value but also brings a satisfying texture. A notable shortcut is using shop-bought crispy onions, which add an appealing crunch without the hassle of frying. The result is a colorful salad that can be assembled in just 20 minutes.

Elevated Summer Flavors

Next on the menu is a delightful Hot Smoked Salmon and Potato Salad with Lemon Crème Fraîche Dressing. Inspired by a visit to Sweden, Skehan emphasizes the contrast between the smoky, flaky salmon and the creamy potatoes, enhanced by a vibrant lemon dressing. This dish not only embodies the essence of Scandinavian summer cuisine but also highlights the importance of fresh herbs, particularly dill, which should be generously incorporated throughout.

The preparation of this salad requires boiling potatoes in heavily salted water until tender, followed by slicing and assembling with the salmon, spring onions, and cucumber. A carefully whisked dressing completes the dish, making it a wholesome option for any summer gathering. This recipe can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes.

Impressive Yet Simple Mezze

Completing the trio is a visually stunning Labneh Dip with Rose Harissa, accompanied by crispy sesame flatbreads, spiced roasted chickpeas, and quick marinated olives. This dish may look restaurant-worthy, but it is surprisingly easy to prepare. The primary task involves straining yogurt overnight to create the labneh, though a quicker method is available for those pressed for time.

The chickpeas are seasoned and air-fried until crispy, while the olives are marinated with garlic, thyme, and lemon zest—ingredients that can be prepped ahead of time and stored for up to two weeks. The flatbreads are brushed with sesame oil and baked until crisp, providing a perfect vehicle for the labneh dip. The addition of rose harissa not only enhances the dip’s flavor but also adds a visual appeal with its vibrant swirl.

These recipes emphasize communal dining, allowing guests to serve themselves and enjoy a relaxed meal. Whether hosting a casual gathering or a more formal affair, these summer platters promise to impress without demanding extensive culinary skills. With Skehan’s guidance, anyone can create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the flavors of the season.