There are few things the British get stuck into quite like Wimbledon. It’s a far bigger affair than just watching the tennis; perhaps because the sun is (usually) out, and our players (usually) do fairly well, each match has a super-summery vibe.
Even for those not at Wimbledon itself, game days are great days, both in terms of the opportunity for spending time with friends and family, and spreads of gorgeous food. Loads of lovely flavours and ingredients lend themselves to the great tennis season, and considering the good weather, there’s no reason why the colours that feature on your table should be limited to just the reds and whites of strawberries and cream.
So, do what we’re doing: gather together some friends, pack up a picnic blanket or drag a table outside, and get ready for the next match by throwing a feast that honours everything we love about Wimbledon.
Savoury snacks
Honestly, we’re as fond of a plain old cucumber sandwich as anybody: they don’t have to be fancy, and they’re suitably refreshing for a sunny day. However, if you’re going to celebrate in style, try going bigger by prepping ahead – think sausage rolls, a big quiche, little Scotch eggs, or a few Cornish pasties (all served cold), or go for a big tub of potato and salmon salad.
Drinks
No proper Wimbledon spread would be complete without a traditional “summer cup” – fresh, seasonal fruit, macerated in good gin or vodka and sweet vermouth, served over ice and topped up with lemonade. You can see how to make these with Drinks Tube, below.
Don’t stop there, though; if there was ever a “cocktail season”, it’s summer. Alfresco dining demands the lightest, freshest drinks, and at a time when so much beautiful fruit is bang in season, it’s not hard to oblige. For ideas on how best to use this delicious fruit, check out the Summer Drinks collection on Drinks Tube, or have a look through our favourite summer soft drinks ideas.
Strawberries
We couldn’t ignore them: strawberries, cream and Wimbledon are the perfect trio. This year, why not take that classic combination one step further with some of these fab strawberry-based desserts: 15-second strawberry ice cream, retro arctic roll, strawberries, Prosecco and yoghurt for a slightly lighter take, or go all-out with a big, beautiful Eton mess for everybody to get stuck into at the table.
You can also roast your strawberries and turn them into a gorgeous, indulgent milkshake – see how below!
Other treats
There’s plenty more in season at the moment that deserves a spot in a Wimbledon feast. Looking good as a star in our spread are these lovely crumbly scones, served with clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam. Kids will also love getting stuck into this fun fruity frozen yoghurt, and adults can gather around this show-stopping Prosecco jelly from Jamie magazine, which utilises all the best fruit of the season.
If you really have the baking bug, a lovely sour cranberry bakewell will see you right through to the warm evening hours.
For more inspiration for a Wimbledon celebration, have a look through our favourite Wimbledon recipes – and make sure you let us know what you go for!
