A Summer Table
There’s something magical about summer in Western Australia. Long days that melt into golden evenings, the sweeping sea breeze, the sound of laughter around a table, and plates being passed between friends and family.
It’s the season for long lunches, outdoor entertaining, and the simple joy of sharing good food, great wine, and the best company.
This summer, why not elevate your entertaining game with a menu that celebrates the flavours of WA?
Think fresh seafood, vibrant produce, and dishes designed for sharing, paired with exceptional wines from Clairault Streicker.
Here’s our guide to crafting the perfect summer menu – complete with canapé ideas, a main dish, sides, and a dessert – plus our top tips for serving a crowd with ease.
Canapés to Kick Off the Afternoon
Albany Rock Oysters with Finger Lime & Cucumber Mignonette
Start your long lunch with the taste of the ocean. Freshly shucked Albany Rock Oysters served with a light mignonette of cucumber, finger lime pearls, and a touch of rice wine vinegar.
Crisp, clean, and refreshing – a perfect match for the Clairault Margaret River Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2025 (94 points, WA Wine Review). This wine’s citrus zest and mineral edge lift the brininess of the oysters beautifully.
Grilled Exmouth Prawns with Chilli-Lime Butter
Nothing says summer like prawns on the barbecue. Grill Exmouth prawns until just charred and toss in a simple chilli-lime butter. They’re finger-licking good and pair wonderfully with the Streicker Bridgeland Block Fumé Blanc 2023 (95 points, Halliday Wine Companion). The wine’s smoky depth and citrus brightness complement the sweet prawn meat while cutting through the buttery richness.
A Main to Share
Butterflied Margaret River Lamb with Rosemary & Garlic
A centrepiece dish that feels festive without the fuss. Butterflied lamb is quick to cook on the barbecue, maximising flavour while keeping the meat juicy. Marinate overnight in olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and a hint of lemon zest, then grill until charred outside and tender within. Slice thickly and serve on a board for guests to help themselves.
This dish is a natural partner for the Clairault Margaret River Chardonnay (94 points, WA Wine Review). While lamb and chardonnay may not seem traditional, this wine’s richness, layered stone fruit notes, and subtle oak balance perfectly with the savoury depth of rosemary and charred meat.
Gnocchi with Burnt Butter & Sage
Alternatively, for those who prefer something lighter yet still indulgent, try Matt Moran’s gnocchi with burnt butter and sage — pillowy potato gnocchi tossed in browned butter infused with fresh sage leaves, finished with a grating of aged Parmigiano-Reggiano and a sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts for texture.
It’s a deceptively simple dish, but when done well, it’s rich, comforting, and irresistibly aromatic. On those radiant WA summer afternoons, this gnocchi is beautifully complemented by the Streicker Ironstone Block Old Vine Chardonnay 2023.
This wine, crafted from Gin Gin clone fruit grown in Wilyabrup and matured in French oak, offers a centred palate of white pear, zested limes, wet slate and oyster shell, underpinned by elegant natural acidity and subtle oak influence.
The interplay between the gently nutty, buttery sauce and the wine’s refined stone‐fruit core and minerality makes for a graceful match — the wine lifting the richness of the gnocchi without overwhelming it, and the dish highlighting the chardonnay’s textural depth and orchard fruit notes.
Sides and Salads
Every long lunch needs a few bright, fresh sides that balance the richness of the main event. Here are two that sing of summer in WA:
Heirloom Tomato & Burrata Salad with Basil Oil
Plates of sun-ripened heirloom tomatoes, creamy burrata, and a drizzle of basil oil are simple yet luxurious. A sprinkle of Murray River salt and cracked pepper brings the flavours alive. Pair with the Sauvignon Blanc Semillon for a zesty, refreshing counterpoint.
Grilled Zucchini & Charred Corn with Mint & Feta
This side dish brings smoky barbecue flavour with a fresh twist. Grill sliced zucchini and corn cobs, then toss with crumbled feta, mint leaves, and a squeeze of lime. The smokiness in the vegetables finds a perfect partner in the Streicker Bridgeland Block Fumé Blanc, which echoes those subtle charred notes.
Peach & Raspberry Pavlova
No WA summer table is complete without pavlova. Crisp meringue, whipped cream, and an abundance of seasonal fruit – this version highlights ripe stone fruit and tangy raspberries. The lightness of the dessert is a lovely palate cleanser after a generous lunch.
This is where your fourth wine comes in – whether it’s a fresh rosé, a sparkling, or a dessert wine. For example, a delicate sparkling rosé would add celebration and pair beautifully with summer fruits, while a late-harvest white would echo the sweetness of ripe peaches.
Tips for Effortless Summer Entertaining
Prep Ahead: Marinate lamb the night before, pre-shuck oysters, and make salad dressings in advance. This frees you up to actually enjoy the lunch.
Serve Family Style: Place platters in the middle of the table so guests can help themselves. It creates a more communal, laid-back atmosphere.
Keep Drinks Flowing: Chill wines early, set up a self-serve drinks station, and keep ice handy. Offer sparkling water and seasonal mocktails alongside wine.
Mix Seating Options: Combine a long table with a few casual outdoor lounges or picnic rugs. It invites guests to relax and linger after lunch.
Shade & Comfort: A pergola, umbrella, or a few large trees are essential for comfort in the summer sun. Add cushions, candles, or fairy lights for an easy transition from day to evening.
Celebrate Summer… WA Style
Summer entertaining in Western Australia is all about bringing together seasonal produce, outdoor cooking, and exceptional wines. From oysters and prawns to lamb and pavlova, this menu is designed for sharing, laughter, and long afternoons that stretch well into the evening.
Paired with standout wines like the Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, Streicker Fumé Blanc and Clairault Reserve Chardonnay, this summer’s long lunches will be nothing short of memorable.
Because in the end, it’s not just about the food or the wine – it’s about gathering around the table, making memories, and celebrating the season with the people you love.