It’s summertime, which in the UK usually means it’s blazing hot one minute and hailing the next. That famously changeable British weather means you never quite know what you’re going to get – blame the jet stream – so planning a garden party can be tricky. When a sunny day does arrive and you feel like inviting people round, you don’t want the additional work of getting drinks and snacks in.
This guide covers sustainable store cupboard essentials for easy summer entertaining, so you can create an eco-friendly garden party without last-minute stress.
A well-stocked pantry makes it much easier to host at a moment’s notice. Here’s a quick guide to our favourite sustainable store cupboard essentials.
Drinks
Sustainable drinks and alcohol-free options for easy summer entertaining.
Drinks are usually the priority on a sunny day. Get those ice cubes jingling and little umbrellas twirling and the good times can roll. Having a few ready-to-serve options on hand makes entertaining effortless, with options for adults, kids and alcohol-free guests.
- Rocks Summer Fruits Squash
- La Gioiosa 0.0% Sparkling Rose
- Belvoir Farm Sparkling Clementine & Cranberry
Nibbles
Easy, eco-friendly snacks that require zero preparation.
Who wants to cook when it’s hot? Sometimes you just want to open a packet – maybe pour it into a bowl if you’re feeling extra fancy. Be ready to go at a moment’s notice with these ready-to-eat snacks.
- Mr Organic Hand Rolled Breadsticks with Olives
- Eat Real Hummus Chips – Tomato & Basil
- Love Corn Salt & Vinegar Corn Snack
Dips & spreads
Another easy option, and one that always goes down well in hot weather. A small range of spreads can easily cater to all tastes. There’s something irresistibly summery about digging into a cool, refreshing dip – just add chips, crusty bread or crudités.
- The Foraging Fox Keto Certified Mango Habanero Salsa
- Olive Branch Chunky Tapenade – Green Olives with Goats Cheese, Rosemary & Chilli
- Organico Organic Roasted Aubergine Spread & Dip
Condiments
A quick way to liven up your salads, rice dishes or cold cuts. Add a few condiments to your table and even the simplest dish can have a bit of added zing. Plus, they tend to be versatile and long-lasting, so nothing has to go to waste.
Chocolate
A snack for all seasons. No one’s going to object to these coming out at the garden party. Just make sure you keep them somewhere cool, so they melt in your mouth and not anywhere else.
- Forest Feast Dark Chocolate Sour Cherries
- Monty Bojangles Cocoberry Blush
- Candy Kittens Crispy Treats
Keep it sustainable
Choosing sustainable store cupboard staples means you’re always ready for eco-friendly entertaining without last-minute waste.
Some things to keep in mind when putting together your party pantry:
- Shelf life – will it keep until the next festive opportunity?
- Adaptable – does it suit every occasion?
- Free from – is it suitable for your vegan or gluten-free guests?
- Versatile – will it pair well with your other choices?
Let’s get started
With a well-stocked selection of sustainable store cupboard staples, you’ll always be ready for effortless summer entertaining. Shop with Natural Collection and keep your hosting both easy and more eco-friendly.