New Youfoodz’s research finds Aussies embracing BBQs, seafood, and refreshing salads as summer dining staples.
- BBQs are the top choice for 40% of Australians, with higher popularity among men (50%) and larger households (51%).
- Seafood is a summer favourite for 21% of Aussies, particularly Baby Boomers (32%) and older Australians (65–75 years).
- Salads appeal to 18% of respondents, with women (26%) and health-conscious individuals aged 55–75 leading the charge.
- Younger Australians (18–24) prefer indulgent desserts (17%) and refreshing smoothies (13%).
As temperatures rise, leading provider of ready-made meals Youfoodz has served up a fresh look at how Australians are dining this summer in their Aussie Summer Meal Trends research. Youfoodz surveyed 500 Australians nationwide to uncover their favourite summer dishes, revealing BBQs, seafood, and light, refreshing meals as the top picks for seasonal dining.
Youfoodz conducted this research to explore how Australians savour summer, from household meal trends to generational favourites. The findings highlight the nation’s love for shared, flavourful meals and the increasing focus on convenience and health-conscious options.
Unsurprisingly, BBQs remain the quintessential Aussie summer meal, with 40% of respondents selecting grilled dishes as their favourite. The appeal is even stronger among men (50%) and larger households of five or more people (51%), making BBQs the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Following closely in second place, seafood is a summer staple for 21% of Aussies. Salads are another standout, capturing 18% of votes. Women drive this trend with 26% favouring health-conscious and refreshing salad options.
Each age group brings unique tastes to the summer table. Baby Boomers aged 65 to 75, are particularly fond of seafood (32%), reflecting their preference for fresh, light meals. Gen Z’s, aged 18 to 24, gravitate toward smoothies (13%) and desserts (17%), offering sweet, on-the-go options. Millennials, aged 35 to 44, find BBQs shining bright at 47%, blending family-friendly and social dining.
Regional differences add flavour to the nation’s summer dining habits. Tasmania leads the nation in dessert lovers at 30%. Victoria and Queensland show balanced preferences that align closely with national trends, with BBQs as the top pick. In ACT, a staggering 75% of residents rank BBQ and grilled dishes as their go-to summer meal, solidifying the territory’s status as a barbecue hotspot.
The Youfoodz research also highlights key factors shaping national summer dining habits. Quick and easy meals are favoured by 46% of Australians, particularly solo diners at 49% and large households at 54%. High-protein choices are popular with younger individuals aged 18 to 24 and men at 18%. Vegan and vegetarian options appeal to a growing niche, with 4% of Australians prioritising plant-based meals.
Australians were also asked to rank their favourite Youfoodz summer meals, and the results highlight a love for flavour-packed favourites this season. From smoky BBQ classics to vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the top choices include:
- Smokey BBQ Chicken with Potato Salad
- Buffalo Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese
- Chicken Burrito Bowl with Avocado Salsa Verde
- Mediterranean Lamb with Loaded Couscous
- Greek Chicken with Zesty Potatoes & Beans
Hannah Gilbert, Senior Director Product Development, Customer & Product Strategy – HelloFresh Group ANZ highlighted how the brand’s focus on fresh, ready-made meals aligns with Australians’ love for convenient, flavour-packed options, especially as they embrace healthier habits in the new year:
“At Youfoodz, we’re dedicated to making healthy eating easy and accessible for all Australians. Our ever-changing menu of fresh, ready-made meals reflects the nation’s love for variety and flavour, with options that cater to every lifestyle.”
“As we enter the new year, we know many Aussies are looking to reset after the festive season, and our portion-controlled, fresh meals make it simple to enjoy nutritious and delicious food. Whether it’s a BBQ classic or a Mediterranean-inspired dish, we’re here to make summer dining effortless and satisfying.”
About Youfoodz Aussie Summer Meal Trends
The Youfoodz Aussie Summer Meal Trends research offers a sizzling snapshot of how Australians are dining this summer. Based on a nationwide survey, the findings celebrate the diversity of summer meals and reflect Australia’s love for convenient, flavourful, and refreshing options.
About Youfoodz
Healthy eating, made easy! Launched in 2012, Youfoodz is on a mission to create the future of food, believing every Australian deserves access to fresh, affordable and tasty food. The ever-changing menu of fresh ready-made meals, snacks and drinks can be delivered to your door. Youfoodz works with local farmers to deliver the freshest meals, guaranteed. Youfoodz meals are delivered fresh (NOT frozen), all portion & calorie-controlled, and ready to heat & eat in minutes. Youfoodz has been voted Best Food Delivery Service by ProductReview 3 years in a row and awarded Best Rated Meal Delivery Service (2021) for variety by Finder.