June 15, 2026

Newstalk | The Claire Byrne Show: What’s the Secret to a Great Summer BBQ?

Aisling Larkin BBQ Claire Byrne Newstalk

Think beyond burgers and buns. Following my appearance on Newstalk with Claire Byrne, I'm sharing the simple ideas behind a memorable summer BBQ—from seasonal flavours and effortless entertaining to the principles of satiety that leave everyone feeling satisfied.

There’s something about a barbecue that feels different.

The food slows us down. Conversations linger. People gather around the table rather than rushing through a meal. Summer entertaining has a way of reminding us that food is about so much more than what’s on the plate.

I was delighted to join Claire Byrne on Newstalk to chat about one of my favourite summer rituals — the great Irish BBQ. While we often focus on the grill itself, the secret to a memorable barbecue isn’t just perfectly cooked food. It’s creating an experience that encourages connection, generosity and enjoyment.

As a broadcaster, speaker and food & wellness strategist, I love creating conversations that help people think differently about food and how it fits into modern life. Whether I’m on television, radio, speaking on stage or developing recipes, my goal is always the same: to make healthy living feel more achievable, more enjoyable and more relevant to how we live today.

Build The Table, Not Just The BBQ

A great barbecue is about balance.

Yes, quality meat, fish or vegetables matter, but it’s everything around them that transforms a meal into something memorable.

I always encourage people to think beyond sausages and burgers. Add colourful salads packed with seasonal vegetables, grilled fruits, fresh herbs, wholegrain sides, homemade dressings and flavour-packed sauces. A table full of variety naturally creates a meal that’s more satisfying, more nourishing and far more enjoyable.

It’s these small additions that help increase plant diversity, boost fibre and encourage everyone to build a plate that’s colourful, balanced and delicious.

Flavour Is Everything

One of the simplest ways to elevate a barbecue is through flavour.

Marinades don’t need to be complicated. A combination of herbs, citrus, garlic, yoghurt, mustard, olive oil or spices can completely transform ingredients while reducing the need for heavier sauces later.

Fresh chimichurri, pesto, salsa verde, whipped feta, homemade slaws and vibrant dressings bring freshness and contrast to grilled food, helping every plate feel lighter and more exciting.

Charcoal, Gas Or Hybrid?

One question that always comes up is whether charcoal or gas is better.

The truth is, there’s no single right answer.

Charcoal offers that unmistakable smoky flavour many people love, while gas provides convenience, consistency and greater temperature control. Hybrid barbecues are becoming increasingly popular, allowing home cooks to enjoy the benefits of both depending on the occasion.

Ultimately, the best barbecue is the one you’ll use regularly.

Think About Satiety

"A great summer BBQ isn't about creating the perfect menu—it's about creating a table people want to gather around. When we combine seasonal ingredients, simple cooking and food that truly satisfies, we create moments that nourish both body and connection. That's where the magic of summer entertaining really begins."

Aisling Larkin

One of the principles that underpins much of my work is satiety.

A satisfying meal isn’t about eating more—it’s about eating well.

Including plenty of protein, colourful vegetables, healthy fats and fibre helps create meals that keep us fuller for longer while making summer entertaining feel naturally balanced rather than restrictive.

The beauty of a barbecue is that it’s one of the easiest occasions to build a meal around these principles without it feeling like healthy eating.

Food Is About Bringing People Together

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from our conversation was this:

The best summer barbecues aren’t remembered because the burgers were perfect.

They’re remembered because people stayed longer than planned. Because children ran around the garden. Because someone discovered a new salad they now make every week. Because conversations continued long after the plates were cleared.

Food has an incredible ability to connect us.

That’s something I’m passionate about exploring across my work, whether through broadcasting, speaking, recipe development or brand partnerships—helping people navigate modern living through food with practical strategies that feel realistic, accessible and enjoyable.

Not perfection, but better.

Real food. Conscious choices. Modern living.