It’s one of the great truths of the holiday season: people drop in. Sometimes they bring a bottle. Sometimes they bring an appetite. And sometimes they arrive just as you’ve sat down with a cup of tea and your feet up.
The good news is you don’t need anything complicated to feed unexpected guests well. With a few reliable ingredients and recipes that forgive substitutions, you can put together a generous, satisfying meal without stress. These three quick and easy dishes are perfect for summer entertaining in Australia – relaxed, adaptable and quietly impressive.
Roast Chicken Tray Bake with Vegetables
Why it works:
Everyone loves roast chicken, and it looks like you’ve made an effort – even when you haven’t.
Serves: 4–6
Time: About 1 hour (mostly hands-off)
Ingredients
1 whole free-range chicken
4–5 potatoes, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
1 red onion, sliced
Olive oil
Salt, pepper
Dried herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Method
Preheat oven to 200°C (fan-forced).
Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt and pepper in a large roasting tray.
Place chicken on top, rub with olive oil, salt, pepper and herbs.
Roast for 55–65 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Rest for 10 minutes, carve and serve.
Serve with: A simple green salad or some bread and butter.
Smoked Salmon & Lemon Pasta
Why it works:
Quick, elegant and ideal for warm weather – it feels special without being heavy.
Serves: 4
Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
400 g pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
200 g smoked salmon, torn into pieces
1 cup thickened cream
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp capers (optional)
Black pepper
Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Method
Cook pasta according to packet instructions.
Warm cream gently in a pan, add lemon zest and juice.
Stir through smoked salmon and capers.
Drain pasta, reserving a little cooking water, then toss with sauce.
Add pepper and herbs to finish.
Serve with: Lemon wedges and a glass of something cold.
Cheese, Ham & Tomato Toasted Sandwiches (Done Properly)
Why it works:
Because sometimes the simplest food is the most welcome – especially late afternoon.
Serves: As many as you like
Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
Good-quality bread
Sliced leg ham
Tasty cheddar cheese
Tomato slices
Butter
Dijon or seeded mustard (optional)
Method
Butter bread generously on the outside.
Layer cheese, ham and tomato inside (add mustard if you like).
Toast in a sandwich press or pan until golden and melting.
Slice in half and serve warm.
Serve with: Pickles, crisps, or a simple salad.
Why These Work for the Holidays
These meals don’t require special shopping, complicated techniques or perfect timing. They can be scaled up or down, suit different appetites, and allow you to enjoy your guests instead of worrying about the stove.
Because at this time of year, feeding people should feel generous – not exhausting.