Posted by I4C on 3rd Jun 2025
Ingredients We’re Loving This Month: Perfect Picks for Summer Cooking
With summer fast approaching, we’re all about those longer evenings, dining al fresco, and of course, firing up the BBQ. As the sun starts to shine, it's the perfect time to get creative with new, vibrant ingredients that take your summer meals to the next level. Whether you’re throwing a BBQ bash, enjoying a garden dinner, or just looking for an easy way to enjoy summer’s best flavours, these are the ingredients we’re reaching for right now.
Here’s what’s on our radar this month: our ultimate ingredients for easy, delicious summer meals that are packed with bold flavours and zesty twists.
Hillfarm Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil: A Suffolk Staple
Locally grown and cold-pressed right here in Suffolk, Hillfarm Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil is a must-have for any summer kitchen. This golden oil is perfect for everything from summer salads and marinades to BBQ grilling. It has a lovely, nutty flavour that complements all kinds of dishes. What’s even better? It has a high smoke point, making it ideal for grilling, searing, and frying.
Recipe inspiration: Drizzle it over a fresh garden salad, toss it into your BBQ marinades, or use it to grill vegetables for a smoky, charred flavour that’ll have your guests coming back for seconds.
Maldon Garlic Salt: The Ultimate Summer Shortcut
Add a burst of flavour to your summer meals with Maldon Garlic Salt. This is your shortcut to serious, garlicky goodness, ideal for sprinkling on everything from new potatoes to grilled corn on the cob, roasted vegetables, or meats fresh off the BBQ. It gives that perfect garlicky crunch we all crave, without any hassle.
Recipe inspiration: Sprinkle it over roasted potatoes or mix it into your burger patties for that extra punch of flavour. Don’t forget to toss it on grilled corn for the perfect BBQ side dish!
La Chinata Hot Smoked Paprika: A Smoky Kick for Your Dishes
Bring a smoky, spicy kick to your summer recipes with La Chinata Hot Smoked Paprika. Known for its rich, smoky flavour, this ingredient is fantastic for creating mouthwatering summer marinades, BBQ rubs, and smoky aioli. It’s an essential flavour base that brings warmth and depth to any dish.
Recipe inspiration: Use it in your marinades for grilled prawns, paprika chicken, or roasted peppers. Add it to your BBQ rubs for meat and veg that’s packed with bold, smoky goodness.
Hot Headz Liquid Hickory Smoke: Instant BBQ Flavour
Dreaming of that rich, smoky BBQ flavour but don’t want to fire up the smoker? Hot Headz Liquid Hickory Smoke is your answer. Just a dash of this liquid smoke adds a deep, barbecue-flavour punch to your sauces, burgers, or baked beans without the need for an actual smoker. It’s an easy way to infuse your dishes with authentic smokehouse vibes.
Recipe inspiration: Add a few drops to your homemade BBQ sauce or mix it into your burger mix for that classic smoky flavour. It’s also great for beans, giving them that slow-cooked BBQ taste.
Tiptree Passion Fruit Curd: Sweet, Zesty Sunshine in a Jar
Summer desserts should be bright, tangy, and just a little bit sweet, and Tiptree Passion Fruit Curd delivers all of that and more. This zesty, tropical curd adds the perfect fruity twist to your summer treats. Swirl it through your morning yoghurt, layer it into trifles, or spread it on scones for a simple yet delicious dessert that brings the sunshine indoors.
Recipe inspiration: Use it as a filling for tarts, drizzle it over vanilla ice cream, or serve it alongside a warm scone for a perfect afternoon treat. It’s an easy, no-fuss way to enjoy a taste of summer.
Join Us for Easy Summer Recipes
We’ll be sharing plenty of easy recipes, flavour tips, and simple ideas all month long, using these five ingredients to make your summer meals a breeze. Keep an eye out on our website and social media (@i4cfood on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X)for inspiration that’ll help you make the most of the sunny days ahead.
From BBQ feasts to garden gatherings, these ingredients will take your summer cooking to the next level. So, whether you’re grilling up some steaks or whipping up a fresh dessert, don’t forget to stock up on these summer essentials. Happy cooking!