Take it from us: February is not the time to be slaving away in the kitchen.
If your end-of-summer schedule is packed with BBQs, picnics, and garden parties, you're in the right place for some inspiration.
Here are five refreshing summer seafood dishes perfect for these last few sunny days.
Tuna Tartare
Recipe Here
In Australia, we have fantastic access to fresh sashimi, and one of the best ways to make the most of this is with a classic Tuna tartare!
It’s also a gentle introduction to raw fish for those who aren’t too sure and, if the tartare is spread on the baguette slices, it makes a great canapé.
If you're bringing it along to a picnic or BBQ, pack the tartare and bread separately to prevent sogginess.
Salad Niçoise
Recipe Here
Speaking of Tuna, we've got a great version of a classic Southern French salad for you...
It's traditionally made with canned Tuna, but if we've got high-quality fresh Tuna at our fingertips, why not use it?
Fun fact: the original Salade Niçoise didn't even contain seafood, only vegetables, as it was considered a basic meal for the poor. How far we've come!
Middle Eastern Kibbeh Nayah
Recipe Here
Our recipe for this popular dish is inspired by one by the talented Karen Martini.
Kibbeh Nayah is a winner for summer gatherings with its blend of lemon, herbs, spices, and fresh chillis with kingfish.
Keep the ingredients super cold while preparing to maintain the dish's refreshing appeal.
Oysters with Shallot Vinaigrette
Recipe Here
A shallot vinaigrette is a classic dressing for oysters that is always a winner at cocktail hour.
Just finely dice some shallots and combine them with some good extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, and salt and pepper.
We recommend using a mild, slightly sweet white wine vinegar (like the chardonnay vinegars sold under the LiraH and Forum brands), so as not to overpower the oyster's natural flavour.
Vietnamese Fresh Rice Paper Rolls
Recipe Here
Indulge in the ultimate refreshing snack with fresh rice paper rolls, known as goi cuon or bánh tráng. They are fantastic picnic food - made to be eaten with your hands, and the rice paper keeps the filling fresh and crunchy for a few hours.
Prawns not only add a satisfying texture but look beautiful too. Rice paper rolls traditionally also contain strips of cooked lean pork belly, so add some if you like.
Make sure to pack a small airtight container for the peanut dipping sauce if you’re enjoying these on the go!