Dan Ellacott shares his tips for feeding a crowd at your holiday home
There’s something undeniably special about eating outdoors – the fresh air, the sound of birdsong or kids laughing in the background, and the sun slowly dipping behind the trees. As soon as the weather shifts, alfresco dining becomes part of the rhythm of our life. It’s relaxed, a bit rustic, and best of all, it’s where we make some of our favourite memories.
For me, entertaining is a big part of family life. Between our five kids, my parents, the in-laws, and my sister’s family, it’s not unusual to have 12 or more of us squeezed around the decking or overflowing the kitchen. And somehow, the more the merrier – especially when the food’s good, and the company’s even better.
The key, I’ve found, is not overcomplicating things. Caravan cooking is all about simplicity and flavour. If I’m feeding a big group, I lean into dishes that can be prepped ahead of time or built buffet-style so everyone can serve themselves. Think trays of roasted new potatoes, marinated chicken thighs, colourful pasta salads, and our family favourite – pulled pork buns or tacos. Pile them toppings – peppers, bacon or veggie options, a bit of cheese, and a splash of hot sauce – they’re always a winner.
When the sun’s out, we fire up our Cadac – one of the best bits of kit we’ve invested in. It’s portable enough to pack for a weekend away, easy to set up and clean, and powerful enough to feed a hungry crowd.
We’ve grilled everything on it – from burgers to veggie kebabs, home made flatbreads, grilled pineapple and buttery, salty, corn on the cob.
Seating is flexible – a mix of camping chairs, fold-out tables, and picnic rugs for the kids works just fine. A big jug of something cold for the kids, paper plates, and a stack of napkins help keep things low-fuss.
For dessert, I keep it easy – bowls of strawberries, a scoop of ice cream or two, and maybe some brownies if I’ve been organised enough to bake ahead. Those packs of meringue nests are great – It’s not fancy, but it always feels like a treat when we’re all together, sun on our faces, and no one in a rush.
Don’t forget the little extras that make the space inviting: outdoor fairy lights, some music playing softly in the background, citronella candles to keep the bugs at bay, and maybe even a fire pit once the sun goes down.
Alfresco dining isn’t just about the food – it’s about the feeling. That easy pace, the conversations that linger, and the sense that for a moment, everything has slowed down. Whether it’s breakfast in the sunshine, a laid-back BBQ, or late-night marshmallows with the kids, these are the moments we’ll remember.
So pull up a chair, pass the tongs, and let’s make the most of holiday living – one shared meal at a time.
