AN EASY GRAZING TABLE, FOR EASY ENTERTAINING
It goes without saying that a grazing table is the best way for easy entertaining. This is a welcome option, when you’re hosting a party, particularly in the summer, when you’d rather be lounging on the grass with a glass of rosé than sweating in the kitchen. A good grazing table can be as satisfying as a meal and makes for a relaxed atmosphere, not to mention a calm host or hostess! Here are a few of my favourite grazing recipes, to spice up the usual spreads of cheese, cold cuts and crudité.
HOT PICKLED PEPPERS & CREAM CHEESE & ZA’ATAR PITTA
Without fail, these go down an absolute storm, every time I make them. I even have friends calling me up to tell me how well they were received at their own parties! They are not labour intensive, but it takes a few hours to caramelize the peppers, so be sure to start them well before your guests are due to arrive. Check out the recipe for yourselves.
COURGETTE CURLS
I usually serve these as a side dish, but they would also work fantastically well on a grazing table. You need very few ingredients for these ones, so they are cost effective. The best thing is, they go with absolutely anything! The recipe is here for you guys.
PRETTY HUMMUS
Hummus is a staple at any grazing table, but why not make yours a little more exciting? Have a look at my recipe for Pretty Hummus to get some ideas, but you can go as daring as you like with your own!
GREEK SALAD AVOCADO BOATS
My avo boats are all at once practical, delicious and novelty. They are a fun variation on a traditional salad and, because of the avocado and a lot more filling. They are also easy for your guests to pick up and graze on, whilst socializing.
BAKED BRIE SLICES
Instead of a standard cheese plate, why not serve some hot brie slices? They only take a few minutes and will look a lot better on your table (recipe). Make sure you buy a good amount of brie, as these will go within seconds!
PANKO CRUMB CAULIFLOWER NIBBLES WITH TAHINI
These little cauliflower nibbles are healthy, delicious, filling and only take about half an hour to make. They look so impressive that your guests will think you’ve been slaving away all day over that grazing table! Don’t tell them that you haven’t…
FIG AND GOAT’S CHEESE BRUSCHETTA
There’s nothing new about these little fig and goats cheese canapes, but if it’s not broke don’t fix it! I’ve never seen a single one of these left on a platter after an event. They are also the quickest, easiest thing in the world, so they will keep everyone – including the chef – happy.
PICK N’ MIX BURGERS
These burgers could make up an entire grazing table on their own. You can cook the patties on the barbecue, or on the stove. Have a look at my recipe for ideas on toppings, but feel free to add as many of your own as you like!
