Libby Gardner, founder of The Platter Project shares her essential steps to creating a simply stunning Grazing Table
- Pick your own produce – Chat to your local green grocer about what’s fresh and in season.
- If you don’t have any styling items at home, place a dinner plate on top of a bowl to create height, similar to a cake stand, adding dimension to your grazing table.
- Use big, whole pieces of fruit such as oranges, pineapple and coconuts as your decorative elements. Contrast this with berries or dried fruits to bring vibrancy & colour to your table.
- Slice one or two of your cheeses into cubes making it easy for your guests to pick up and eat.
- Have something available for all dietary requirements such as vegan and coeliac, so that no one misses out at your party. Also be aware of anyone with allergies.
- Always line your surface with baking paper for hygiene purposes – this also makes cleaning up much easier!
- Depending on how big your grazing table is, start your preparation earlier in the day. I recommend setting up 30mins (15mins in summer) before your guests arrive so that cheeses can get to room temperature.
- Don’t leave any gaps! When you think the platter is complete there is always room to add a little more
- Learn a few facts about your ingredients, such as where your cheeses come from or how they are made. I guarantee your platter will be a huge talking point so it’s always good to know.
- Take note of what people will be drinking so you can pair them with your ingredients.