Shell Mills
Messy Moments and Lasting Memories
There’s just something about cooking outdoors that brings everyone together. The kids love to get stuck in but there’s no stress, as all the mess stays outside (win-win!). They even love the veggies as they taste so good off the Big Green Egg. It’s not just the food – it’s about laughing, sneaky taste tests, and making memories. That’s what outdoor cooking is all about!
Favourite family dishes
1. Stonebaked pizzas
Kids love helping make the dough and piling on their favourite toppings. The Big Green Egg gives that perfect smoky, crisp base and it’s so much fun watching their creations bubble away with that authentic pizza oven vibe.
2. Marshmallow dip
Perfect in the summer when the kids can stay up a bit later or have friends over. Melt chocolate and marshmallows in a skillet for a gooey dip to scoop up with biscuits, strawberries and bananas. We sometimes swirl pistachio crème on top at the end. Very sticky, but that’s part of the fun!
3. Fish tacos
Living in Cornwall, we love to cook fresh fish tacos. The kids can’t get enough of the build-your-own fun and the smoky, flame-grilled flavour. While toasting your corn tortillas, let the kids make a quick salsa and guacamole. When they make their own, they actually eat it!
Top tips for the summer holidays
1. Don’t plan too much
Kids enjoy just being at home, so try not to over-plan every minute. It takes the pressure off. And it’s good for them to get bored sometimes – that’s when the imagination appears!
2. Make ‘sun tea’
Set out little bowls with dried flowers, herbs and dehydrated orange slices, and let them create their own blends. Leave them to infuse for a few hours, then have a little taste test.
3. Create bird feeders
Take some pine cones, cover them in nut butter, roll them in bird seed, and hang them up with twine for the birds to enjoy.
4. And of course, outdoor cooking
From barbecue brunches to baking cakes outside.
About Shell
A mother of three, Shell is a digital content creator who lives near the sea in Cornwall, where she and her family spend as much time as they can in the great outdoors, exploring, playing, cooking and eating. Known on Instagram as Shell and the Littlies, she records their alfresco life in vibrant, colourful reels and images, with their Big Green Egg playing a prominent role.