A new survey has revealed that 'picky bits'—a no-cook spread of dips, antipasti, charcuterie, cheese, and finger foods—have become the UK's favourite summer meal, overtaking traditional staples like barbecues and fish and chips. The research, commissioned by potato brand Nanna Tate and conducted among 2,000 UK adults, found that 87% of Brits tuck into picky bits during the summer months.
Weekly grazing habits surpass traditional meals
Nearly a third (31%) of respondents said they enjoy grazing-style meals at least once a week during summer. This frequency outpaces other British summer favourites: barbecues and seaside fish and chips were jointly chosen by just one in five (20%) as the ideal summer evening meal.
The trend is particularly strong among younger adults. More than half (56%) of Gen Z respondents (born 1997–2012) eat picky bits at least once a week in summer, compared to only 14% of those aged 65 and over.
Convenience and nostalgia drive choices
Convenience is a major factor behind the rise of picky bits, with 50% of Brits saying they prefer easy meals that require less effort. Potatoes also play a key role: half of respondents (50%) said they would add chips or potatoes to their barbecue.
Nostalgia remains powerful, however. The classic ice cream from a van was named the summer food most likely to evoke nostalgic memories (43%), ahead of fish and chips on holiday (30%) and chips by the seaside (26%).
Chef collaboration and recipes
Michelin-trained chef and presenter Poppy O'Toole, known as Poppy Cooks, has teamed up with Nanna Tate to create three sharing recipes: smashed crispy baby potatoes with whipped brie, saffron-salted pan-fried baby potatoes, and tamarind-glazed roast potatoes. O'Toole said: "Potatoes are such a great ingredient to use across main and side dishes. They are so versatile so whether you're feeding little ones or a larger group there are endless ways to turn them into tasty meals. Nanna Tate makes it easy to create effortless summer dishes, perfect for picnics, barbecues or late night dinners."
Spokesperson comments on summer eating habits
A spokesperson for Nanna Tate added: "Summer food is all about bringing people together and balancing easy to prepare dishes with something a little bit different. Putting together an enticing spread for family and friends, whether it's sharing picky bits in the garden or tucking in to fish and chips, people are looking for food that helps make them feel relaxed. Our research shows how convenience and comfort are becoming increasingly important during the summer months, but traditional favourites remain firmly at the heart of British eating habits. We're really excited to team up with Poppy to show how easy it can be to elevate traditional ingredients and make summer dishes that bring an extra moment of food joy this summer."
