Last year we waited and waited for an Indian summer that never came and I swore to do things differently this year.

Let’s face it, if you hold out for a bit of sunshine to make plans in this country, the summer holidays are over before you know it. So I’m fighting back with optimism and an Indian barbecue menu that will take you through the holidays, come what may.

Indian food isn’t all about full-on heat.

The following recipes will show you how different blends of spices can be used to add fragrance and aromatic flavours to ingredients for light and refreshing dishes as well. All of the recipes are quick and easy, with the added bonus that they can be prepared ahead.

So while I can’t promise you blue skies, this menu will guarantee a relaxed and casual barbecue, with hopefully something other than the weather to talk about.

Grilled sweet potatoes with Indian spices

Aromatic lamb kebabs

Spiced chicken and cashew kebabs

Tangy quinoa, chickpea and mango salad

Strawberry and rosewater creams with pistachio brittle

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