Spring is here and that means party season’s about to be in full swing. It’s time to open our doors, embrace the sunshine, and lean into the spirit of hosting for friends and family.
Whether you’re planning a casual brunch or an al fresco dinner, keeping your table fresh with light, vibrant ingredients will set the tone. Here are a few tips to elevate your springtime spread.
Highlight spring ingredients
Spring is the season of abundance, and the produce on your table should reflect that – think crisp asparagus, artichoke and fennel; fresh herbs like mint or dill; and all the beautiful berries that start to appear this time of year. These ingredients not only taste better when they’re in season but also add a beautiful pop of colour to your plates.
Veggies and herbs can be thinly sliced or chopped to use as a garnish, brightened up with a lemon vinaigrette, or tossed in a grain salad. Meanwhile, fruit is easily elevated with a dollop of cream, a drizzle of honey and a sprinkling of crushed pistachios.
Add a crowd-pleasing dip to the mix
Versatile, convenient and always a hit, dips are the ultimate hosting hack. No gathering is complete without them, but a tub of hummus or tzatziki doesn’t always cut it. This season, step up your dip game with Black Swan’s tangy new Green Goddess dip.
It incorporates all the flavours of the San Francisco-born dressing (creamy Greek yogurt, avocado, lemon and fresh herbs), making it the perfect companion for veggies, chips, flatbread or your favourite scooping snack. Better yet, think beyond just dipping. Add it to a salad dressing, spoon it over roast vegetables or serve with grilled fish.
Let guests help themselves with a DIY platter
Grazing tables are a win-win – they take pressure off the host to produce a full meal and cater to a range of tastes. They also require minimal prep; they’re budget-friendly, since you can pad out a star protein with low-cost extras; and they’re a great way to get people mingling.
For a balanced offering, wander around your local market for inspiration. Aim for at least one item from the following categories: sliced veggies; cheese; charcuterie; crisps, bread or crackers; a briny element like olives or pickles; and of course, a few dips or spreads.
Think green
Take inspiration from the colours of the season for your table. Shades of green from herbs, vegetables, sauces and even servingware or table linen are a great way to bring some spring freshness into your set-up. A bunch of flowers or even a bundle of herbs can also add life without much fuss.
With just a few simple additions like Black Swan’s new Green Goddess dip and seasonal produce, you can create a table that feels light and fresh with minimal effort. The key is to keep things easy and vibrant, to match the warm spring afternoons.
This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Black Swan.
