Treat your barbecue guests to something more appetising than tired old bangers and paper plates.

Summer in Britain is the only time we can get away with eating outdoors so let Nora McElhone show you how it’s done

Dining al fresco is one of the great joys of summer living. Whether you are simply taking your usual meal out into the garden or creating a barbecued feast, there is something extra special about eating in the fresh air – especially when the sun is shining.

At lunchtime, a simple salad served with crusty bread or a platter of cold meats and cheeses is sure to be a winner. At dinner time, or if you are cooking for a crowd, it’s an ideal time to crank up the barbecue.

There is an amazing array of models out there to choose from, including traditional charcoal versions and convenient, state-of-the-art gas barbecues.

Purists often say they won’t cook on anything but charcoal but there is no denying that gas barbecues are here to stay, offering convenient, fast heat that is easy to control.

If you are having a really big party, you might like the idea of hiring a large gas barbecue from a local garden centre or tool hire outlet.

Don’t just stick to bangers and burgers; think about what you enjoy eating indoors and it will taste even better on the barbie.

Lamb or chicken kebabs, or marinated chicken wings are all tasty options – and don’t be afraid to try fish.

Oily fish such as mackerel and sardines taste fantastic cooked over charcoal, as do salmon steaks.

And vegetarians needn’t feel left out when it comes to barbecue season.

There are few things tastier than a spud baked in the coals, while flat mushrooms layered with grilled halloumi cheese are a great alternative to a burger.

While barbecuing is definitely the top choice for outdoor cooking, the hot trend for this summer is your very own stonebaked pizza produced in an outdoor pizza oven.

Recreate atmospheric Italian evenings with a glass of vino in hand while the smell of freshly baking pizza fills the air.

A dedicated pizza oven doesn’t come cheap so buying into this trend is certainly an investment, but just imagine all those Saturday evenings spent relaxing outside with delicious homemade pizza to enjoy.

Whatever you are serving, add to the sense of fun with some cute and colourful tableware.

It can be worth investing in some plastic or melamine plates, bowls and drinking vessels for use outside as a broken glass on the patio or decking can be dangerous, especially when there are kids or pets around.

Bright co-coordinating napkins and other accessories add to the outdoor occasion, as do glittering fairy lights and some chilled-out summer tunes.

Have a few throws on hand in case the evening air turns chilly and you have all the ingredients for the perfect outdoor soiree.