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What’s Sizzling On Aussie Plates This Summer?

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Your ultimate guide to the delicious dishes Australians are loving in the kitchen this summer.

From classic BBQs to health-conscious salads, our research dives into the dishes on hot rotation this season. Here’s a taste of the trends driving Aussie summer dining:
 
<ul>
<li>BBQ and Grilled Dishes Dominate: BBQs are the go-to for 40% of Australians, with an even stronger preference among males (50%) and larger households of 5+ people (51%). </li>
<li>Seafood Makes a Splash: Seafood holds the second spot, with 21% of Aussies naming it a summer staple. Older age groups (65–75) are especially fond, making it their top pick for a light and refreshing meal. </li>
<li>Salads Shine for Health-Conscious Eaters: With 18% of respondents opting for salads, they’re a popular choice for females (26%) and older Australians (27%–28%). </li>
<li>Sweet Treats Win Younger Australians Over: Desserts and smoothies are the favourites of the 18–24 crowd, with 13% choosing smoothies and 17% going for desserts. </li>
<li>Household Size Shapes Meal Choices: Larger households stick with BBQs (51%) for their group-friendly appeal, while smaller households lean towards seafood (22%) and salads (25%) for ease and practicality.</li>
</ul>

Aussie Summer Meal Trends

When it comes to summer meals, different Aussie age groups have unique preferences that reflect their lifestyles and tastes.
 
<ul>
<li>Gen Z’s (18-24 years): Favouring a lighter, sweeter touch, younger individuals are reaching for smoothies and juices (13%) and indulgent desserts (17%), perfect for on-the-go refreshments or sweet treats.
 </li>
<li>Millennials (35-44 years): For those balancing family meals and social gatherings, BBQ and grilled dishes reign supreme (47%), making them the go-to option for flavour-packed, crowd-pleasing meals.
 </li>
<li>Baby Boomers (65-75 years): With a focus on fresh and wholesome options, this group leans toward seafood (32%) and salads (27%), combining health-conscious choices with satisfying summer flavours.</li>
</ul>

Every Generation’s Summer Plate Picks

Summer meal favourites vary widely across Australia, with each state bringing its distinct tastes to the table. Here's how different regions are savouring their summer dishes:
 
<ul>
<li>Tasmania: With 30% of Tasmanians favouring desserts, the highest percentage in the country, the love for sweet treats reflects regional traditions and a penchant for indulgence.
 </li>
<li>Victoria &amp; Queensland: These states embrace balanced preferences, aligning closely with national trends, though BBQ and grilled dishes remain the top choice for summer feasting in both regions.
 </li>
<li>ACT (Australian Capital Territory): Known for its outdoor-focused lifestyle, ACT residents show an overwhelming preference for BBQ and grilled dishes (75%), the highest of any state, making it the ultimate barbecue hotspot.</li>
</ul>

The Favourite Summer Eats Across Each State

From BBQ classics to vibrant Mediterranean flavours, we also asked Aussies to rank their favourite Youfoodz summer meals. The results are in—check out the top 10 dishes that are making a splash this season!

The Top 10 Summer Meals That Aussies Are Loving Right Now

Our research reveals a clear preference for meals that are both convenient and refreshing, reflecting Aussies' love for easy, delicious dining during the warmer months.
 
<ul>
<li>Convenience Reigns Supreme: With 46% of Australians opting for Quick and Easy meals, simplicity is the ultimate recipe for success. This preference spans most age groups and household types, proving that time-saving meals are a summer essential. </li>
<li>Staying Light and Fresh: 35% of respondents prefer Light and Refreshing options, particularly among older Australians aged 55–75, who lean toward healthier, simpler meals for the season. </li>
<li>High-Protein Picks: 11% of Aussies favour meals High in Protein, particularly males and younger individuals aged 18–24, suggesting a strong focus on fitness and active lifestyles. </li>
<li>Niche Choices: While smaller in popularity, Vegan or Vegetarian (4%) and Low-Carb (3%) options continue to appeal to specific groups, indicating a growing interest in these dietary trends.</li>
</ul>

The Factors Shaping Australian Summer Meal Choices

When it comes to summer meals, men and women bring their preferences to the table, reflecting diverse lifestyles and priorities:
 
<ul>
<li>Men: A strong focus on fitness and sustenance is clear, with 18% of men choosing high-protein meals, significantly higher than their female counterparts. In addition, convenience is still a priority, with 44% favouring quick and easy options, aligning closely with the overall average.
 </li>
<li>Women: Light and refreshing meals take the lead, with 39% of women choosing this style, showcasing a preference for health-conscious and satisfying dishes. Women are also more likely to enjoy vegan or vegetarian options (5%), alongside slightly higher interest in quick and easy meals (49%), making time-saving yet balanced meals their go-to choice.</li>
</ul>

How Aussie Men and Women Pick Their Summer Meals

The size of the household can significantly influence how people approach summer meals, with preferences shifting to meet practical and social needs:
 
<ul>
<li>1 Person (49%): Quick and easy options reign supreme, making solo dining simple and stress-free. Convenience is key for those cooking for one.
 </li>
<li>2-4 People (45%): Families and smaller households align with overall trends, but with a notable 38% interest in light and refreshing meals, perfect for enjoying as a group without feeling weighed down.
 </li>
<li>5+ People (54%): Large households focus on quick and easy meals, balancing the complexity of feeding a crowd with the joy of shared summer feasts.</li>
</ul>

How Aussies Cook for One, Two, or a Crowd

Summer meal preferences vary widely across Australia's diverse regions, with unique trends that reflect each state's lifestyle and priorities:
 
<ul>
<li>Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Leading the charge for Quick and Easy meals (55%), the ACT’s urban dwellers prioritise simplicity and convenience to complement their busy lives.
 </li>
<li>Victoria: A balanced mix, with 55% opting for Quick and Easy meals and 32% choosing Light and Refreshing dishes, perfectly suited for the state’s dynamic blend of lifestyles.
 </li>
<li>Tasmania: The standout for Vegan or Vegetarian options (4%), shows a higher inclination for plant-based dining compared to other regions.</li>
</ul>

What Each State Values Most For Their Summer Dishes

View Our Most Loved Summer Meals

The insights in this page are based on a recent survey conducted across a representative sample of the Australian population across every state and territory. Respondents were asked questions such as their favourite type of summer meal or how they preferred dishes. 

About This Data

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