Weekend Asado Menu Ideas to Impress Your Guests
Few weekend rituals are as memorable as an Argentine asado. More than just a barbecue, a true asado is an event – an invitation to slow down, share stories, and savour unforgettable flavours with those who matter most. For anyone hosting in the UK, it’s also a chance to stand out: blending fire, food, and hospitality in a way that only the finest gatherings do. Here’s how to craft a menu that will leave your guests talking long after the embers fade.
The Foundation: Setting the Scene
Begin with the right atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a larger garden party, the heart of any asado is the grill. It’s not just about cooking – it’s about performance. An authentic Argentine parrilla makes a striking centrepiece and ensures every detail is spot on. Think glowing wood embers, quality cuts of meat, and that unmistakable aroma of slow, open-fire cooking.
Course One: Signature Starters
Set the tone with simple, elegant appetisers that reflect the spirit of the asado. Start with a board of cured meats and artisan cheeses – think slices of aged Manchego, tangy blue cheese, and a handful of Marcona almonds. Accompany with fresh rustic bread, lightly grilled and served with extra-virgin olive oil.
Add freshly grilled chorizo, cut into thick coins, or empanadas – crisp pastry filled with beef or vegetables. These bite-sized starters allow guests to graze and mingle while anticipation builds for the main event.
The Main Event: Show-Stopping Grilled Meats
The soul of the asado is in the main course. Choose impressive cuts such as ribeye, skirt steak, or beef short ribs – simply seasoned with sea salt and cooked slowly over wood or charcoal embers. The secret to achieving that irresistible crust and juicy interior lies in both patience and quality equipment.
Complement the beef with a traditional chimichurri – a vibrant sauce of parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil – served on the side. For added variety, consider lamb marinated in rosemary and garlic, or smoky pork ribs. If you want to offer a true talking point, grill a whole butterflied chicken, basted with herbs and citrus.
Thoughtful Sides: Balance and Colour
No luxury asado menu is complete without a selection of fresh sides. Opt for a classic green salad – crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions, simply dressed. Grilled vegetables are a must: think aubergines, peppers, courgettes, and sweetcorn, all brought to life by the smoky heat of the grill.
Potato salad can be elevated with the addition of grain mustard and spring onions, or try a hearts of palm and avocado salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a light, elegant twist.
Finishing Touches: Dessert & Drinks
To round out the experience, keep dessert light yet indulgent. Flan de leche – Argentine crème caramel – is a traditional favourite, or serve platters of fresh berries and fruit tarts for a vibrant finish.
For drinks, Malbec is a natural choice, its robust flavour pairing perfectly with grilled meats. Alternatively, offer guests a refreshing spritz or sparkling elderflower for a non-alcoholic option.
Hosting Like a Pro
An asado is about more than food; it’s about the shared experience. Make your guests feel welcome with thoughtful details – crisp linen napkins, elegant glassware, and a steady flow of conversation.
A truly memorable asado is defined by the quality of the ingredients, the warmth of the host, and the mastery of the grill. With the right menu and the finest equipment, you’ll create a weekend tradition your guests will look forward to time and again.
Ready to Host the Ultimate Asado?
For those who appreciate the art of entertaining, investing in a luxury Argentine grill transforms every gathering into something truly exceptional. Discover how authentic asado can elevate your next weekend – and impress even the most discerning guests.
Enquire now to find out more about creating the ultimate asado experience at home.