KEY POINTS:
We have surely been blessed this summer with the most idyllic weather for entertaining outdoors. It's been day after day of balmy temperatures, with no need to reach for the cardy as the sun begins to set. Alas, the end is nigh so what better reason to gather your mates and throw one last casual dinner party in the garden or on the balcony to kiss summer goodbye?
Before we start getting excited about autumn produce and rich, warming, slow-cooked pots of goodness, let's enjoy the unsullied flavours of shelled broad beans, creamy avocado and fresh ricotta thrown together with a dressing made from sweet muscat vinegar.
Follow that with juicy lamb cutlets crusted with fresh herbs, anchovies and ground almonds cooked on a salad of chickpeas, lemon, olives and roasted peppers, then after a brief respite bring on the most delicious honey cake slathered with ruby red roasted plums and a generous dollop of whipped cream.
Take a little time to enjoy the company, the conversation, the food and the last of the summer wine.
CHEF'S TIP
Keep the ingredients as simple and fresh as possible to appreciate the flavours. Use a lighter coloured honey with a mild flavour such as pohutukawa or lavender in the cake recipe so the flavour is not overwhelming.