IT'S official Boltonians are more likely to throw a summer party than anywhere else in the country.

According to a survey by Anchor cream, one in 10 Bolton residents is planning to go to more than 10 parties this summer.

The survey also found that hosts in Bolton are extremely family orientated, being more than twice as likely to invite family rather than neighbours to parties. And instead of opting for the traditional barbecue at parties this summer, one in five Bolton party-goers will choose salad proving themselves to be the most health-conscious in the UK.

And when it comes to actually doing the hard work, we leave it all to the men. Twice as many men cook at summer barbecues compared to women, 90 per cent of who said they were more than happy to leave the cooking to the hubbies while they eat, drink and make merry.

So, while the men are burning the burgers, why not enjoy one of these lovely light salads, accompanied by a sneaky glass of summer punch?

Cucumber and Fennel Salad

3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced medium sweet onion
1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 teaspoons dill weed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon grated lemon peel

In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, onion, and fennel.

Shake the remaining ingredients together before pouring over cucumber mixture and tossing to coat. Refrigerate until chilled.

Asparagus and Strawberry Salad

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
8 cups spring mix salad greens
3 cups sliced fresh strawberries
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons sugar

In a bowl, toss the asparagus with one tablespoon of oil. Spread in a single layer in a greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake at 200C for 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender. Then in a large salad bowl, toss the greens, strawberries, onion, walnuts and asparagus.

In a small bowl, whisk the vinegar, sugar, and remaining oil. Drizzle over the salad and toss to coat.

Flirtinis

75 cl Absolut Vodka
75 cl Sparkling wine
Pineapple juice (to taste)

Stir the ingredients over ice into a pitcher.

Serve in cocktail glasses.