You're planning a summer birthday dinner.

[PotOfYoghurt]

It's your birthday. You'll be poking for eternity 6-8 people. Outside. No intolerances or allergies.

What do you serve?

[PotOfYoghurt]

Jesus Christ.

Cooking for 6-8 people.

There shall be no poking going on, of any sort.

[Dozer]

[Dozer]

For a start, as it's your birthday, why not get someone else to do the poking?

[JudgyMcJudgypants]

I'm getting that on a tshirt.

Poking for eternity!

[PurpleDaisies]

Great typo! What do you like to eat?

I'd probably buy really good steak and serve with chunky chips, onion rings, corn on the cob, peas and Diane sauce. Pavlova for pudding.

[JudgyMcJudgypants]

Are you cooking outside or eating outside?

[Allalonenow]

Is the cooking outside or just the eating?

[PotOfYoghurt]

I like to eat everything! Cooking inside, but there is a BBQ I could use as well.

I don't mind doing the cooking, I quite enjoy it. But I've never done it for an occasion as such so but unsure what to cook!

[Maverick66]

I would do large pot of curry/chilli/ peppered beef and rice.
Let everyone help themselves.
Choice of tear and share breads
Salad
Dessert
Pavlova
Fruit kebabs
Fruit salad
Apple or mixed fruit crumble home made custard or cream
Loads of wine and beer .
Less fuss than a barbecue
All cooked in two pots minimum clearing up afterwards.

[Allalonenow]

Asparagus served cold with lemon mayonnaise
Chicken caesar salad with grapes/celery/cucumber etc
Lemon tart served with raspberries and redcurrants.

[PotOfYoghurt]

Oh yes Pavlova! God I haven't made one of those since I was a kid. May need to practise this weekend...

[Highlove]

I'd go for a joint as the centre piece of the main, one that can be finished on the bbq. So maybe a butterflied leg of lamb in some sort of marinade? Jamie has some good ideas. And also do some sides on the bbq - veg kebabs or whatever. I'd serve with some sexed up couscous.

Pavlova is always a winner. Or a fancy chocolate tart - that always looks impressive.