5 ways with... skewers

As barbecue season is here, what better time to get creative with skewers? From barbecued spicy chicken to delicious desserts, here’s five ways to make your sales sizzle

1: Fish ‘n’ sticks

As one of the most nutritious foods on the planet, salmon is a great addition to menus and perfect for summer. Add some omega 3 to your menu with salmon and lemon grilled kebabs. Coat salmon chunks with a mixture of oregano, sesame seeds, cumin and red pepper flakes, then thread on to skewers, wedging thin folded lemon slices inbetween. Spray the skewers with oil, sprinkle over some salt and they’re ready for the grill. Finish with fresh parsley.

2: Spicy skewers

One of Britain’s most popular dishes, chicken tikka masala, can be used as inspiration for your summer grill menu. Mix natural yogurt with hot curry paste, use to coat chicken pieces and leave to marinate. Thread the chicken and some cherry tomatoes on to skewers and they’re ready to grill. These chicken tikka skewers make the perfect starter or serve with warm chapatis as a main course.

3: Chocolicious

Here’s your chance to load as much cocoa as you can into a dessert for chocoholics. These chocolate-covered, mini pancake and berry skewers are one of those dreamy desserts that customers will see on someone else’s plate and won’t be able to resist the temptation of ordering their own! Make a simple pancake batter using plain flour, eggs and milk, then fry in small batches to create mini pancakes. Once golden, add to skewers, along with berries of your choice, and smother in melted chocolate.

4: Chicken lollipops

Families prioritise visiting restaurants that offer fun and simple dishes for children, so try these exciting chicken lollipops to encourage more family visits. Slide chunks of plain breaded chicken on to wooden skewers, creating a lollipop effect. This is playful for kids and it’s also appealing to parents as dinner on a stick means no mess!

5: Sticky steak

Fire up the barbecue or grill for these sweet chilli sticky beef skewers, perfect for a quick and flavoursome side or starter. Marinate pieces of beef in a sweet chilli glaze (made using honey, chilli sauce, soy sauce, and sunflower oil). Thread the sliced beef on to skewers, along with green peppers and onions. Grill on a medium-hot heat and then brush the remaining sticky glaze over the skewers for an extra flavour kick. Season with chilli, salt and pepper and they’re ready to serve.