Summer Hosting Tips: From a Chef Who Makes a Living Off It

Given its proximity to Sydney’s most iconic stretch of surf and sand, it’s little surprise that the Depot Bondi’s head chef Guy Turland knows a thing or two about a putting together a sunny soiree. Here are the Tassal Seafood ambassador’s top Summer hosting tips

Be the host with the most, with these top tips

Whether hosting a backyard bash or a chic garden party, here’s how Guy keeps things simple, stunning and stress free.

Celebrate the season. Summer’s bounty is brimming with bright, fresh produce – think mangoes, berries, tomatoes, and lettuce. “Pair these with Tassal’s Australian-grown salmon, prawns, and barramundi for dishes that sing with seasonal flavour,” says Guy.

Less cooking, more mingling. Summer entertaining should be as breezy as the weather. “I love that summer meals don’t require hours in the kitchen,” Guy says. Quick salads, seafood platters, and light grilling let you spend more time with your guests.

Set the scene with colour. Impress your guests before the first bite with a vibrant tablescape. Play with colourful linens, patterned napkins, and fresh florals. Pro tip: The orange shells of Tassal’s Aussie Tiger Prawns double as edible decor.

Pair like a pro: Elevate your feast with the perfect drink pairings. Guy suggests: “Beer-battered barramundi with a crisp lager; Seafood charcuterie paired with a buttery Aussie Chardonnay; and mango-laden summer salad with crispy salmon, best enjoyed with a chilled Rosé or Riesling.”

Magic on AND off the menu

Entertaining isn’t just about the food. It’s also about creating an experience that leaves your guests feeling relaxed and delighted. To ensure your gathering goes off without a hitch, start by planning ahead.

Prep as much as possible before your guests arrive by chopping ingredients, marinating seafood, and setting up your tablescape, so you’re not left scrambling at the last minute.

Keep the mood light and casual by serving fresh, shareable dishes that allow guests to help themselves rather than relying on heavy, formal courses.

Since outdoor entertaining is a quintessential part of an Aussie Summer, don’t forget to consider the heat. Provide a shaded area, stock up on ice, and serve plenty of chilled drinks to keep everyone comfortable and refreshed.

Finally, set the tone with a well-curated playlist. Music can make or break the atmosphere, so choose a laid-back mix of upbeat classics to keep the energy lively and fun throughout the event.

Delicious dishes

With that in mind, Guy does recommend these show-stoppingly spectacular (and sustainably sourced!) Tassal-seafood dishes:

• Crispy Skin Tassal Salmon Summer Salad. Juicy mango and creamy avocado meet crispy salmon for a dish that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying.
• Seafood Charcuterie Platter. Combine Tassal Smoked Salmon rillette and a trio of prawns with cocktail sauces for a centrepiece that screams coastal chic.
• Beer-Battered Barramundi and Chips. A nostalgic favourite made better with Tassal’s Cone Bay barramundi and a perfectly crispy batter. Pair it with a cold lager for maximum effect.