Co-op has unveiled a range of premium small plates for the summer season, with 25 Mediterranean inspired dishes which are available in stores and online.

The new small plates line includes dips, antipasti, bite-sized snacks and tapas classics such as chorizo bites, pancetta croquettes, and stuffed ricotta peppers.

The convenience store retailer aims to create a range which is easy for shoppers to share and which taps into the rising consumer demand for flexible and social dining.

Picnic food developer Jonathan Williamson at Co-op said: “As the weather warms up, shoppers look for food that’s quick, full of flavour and ideal for the many sharing occasions the summer brings.

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“This season, we’ve extended the breadth of our range – giving shoppers more choices for effortless dining, ranging from innovative small plates all the way to the classics. And with our 3 for 2 offer running across the entire picnic range, it’s simple to mix and match and create a delicious spread that delivers on both quality and value.”

This new range is part of Co-op’s wider deli offering, with the premium and standard lines included in the 3 for 2 deal, which will be running throughout summer.

Some of the dishes include the Whipped Ricotta with Chargrilled Courgettes, Margherita Pizza Dip and tapas such as Pancetta Croquettes with Fondue Dip.

The range also has vegetarian options such as Garlic & Roasted Red Pepper Tortilla, Feta & Summer Vegetable Quiche and Pesto & Pecorino Coleslaw.