Spring is the perfect season to refresh your entertaining style with bright, colourful, and creative plating ideas that celebrate the fresh flavours and vibrant colours of the season. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a larger gathering, how you present your dishes can make all the difference in setting the mood and impressing your guests. At Gertrude Grocer, we offer an array of fresh ingredients and gourmet products that will help you bring your spring-themed plates to life.
Here are five inspiring plating ideas to elevate your spring entertaining:
1. Garden Fresh Plate: Celebrate Spring Greens
Create a plate that looks like a fresh garden with an assortment of spring greens such as baby spinach, rocket, green kale, and Tuscan kale. Use edible flowers for pops of colour, add thinly sliced radishes, and drizzle with a light lemon vinaigrette made with fresh lemon juice and olive oil from Gertrude Grocer. Serve alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh goat cheese for contrast.
Why it works: The bright greens and fresh textures evoke the renewal of spring, and the natural plating style feels fresh and inviting.
2. Berry Burst Platter: Sweet & Savoury Harmony
Use a rustic wooden board or white ceramic plate to showcase fresh spring berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries alongside creamy cheeses. Add a handful of toasted nuts and a drizzle of Sap n Tap organic maple syrup for an added twist.
Why it works: Combining sweet berries with rich cheese creates a delicious contrast that’s perfect for a light spring starter or dessert.
3. Rustic Mediterranean Spread: Sharing & Sharing Alike
Inspired by Mediterranean flavours, this platter features marinated olives, bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, and artisan breads such as Impasto Forno Antico fresh foccacia delivered daily by Gertrude Grocer. Add in slices of cured meats and a sprinkling of nuts for texture.
Why it works: The communal style encourages conversation and a relaxed vibe, perfect for spring afternoons or casual evening gatherings.
4. Vibrant Grain Bowls: Colourful & Nourishing
Serve vibrant grain bowls using quinoa or farro as a base, topped with roasted spring vegetables like asparagus and peas, fresh herbs, crumbled Berrys Creek cheese, and a lemony dressing. Present in individual bowls or mini plates, garnished with microgreens or edible flowers.
Why it works: This plating style is health-conscious and visually appealing, making your guests feel nourished and energised.
5. Mini Dessert Plates: Elegant Spring Sweets
Offer guests mini dessert plates featuring delicate bites such as miniature lemon poppy seed muffins, fresh berry tarts, and dollops of whipped cream or mascarpone. Decorate plates with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a beautiful finishing touch.
Why it works: Small portions allow guests to sample multiple desserts, and the bright garnishes keep the look light and festive.
Tips for Spring Plating Success
-
Use fresh, seasonal produce to showcase natural colours and flavours.
-
Incorporate edible flowers and fresh herbs for visual appeal and added aroma.
-
Mix textures like creamy cheeses with crunchy nuts or toasted bread.
-
Choose light, natural serving dishes such as wooden boards, white ceramic, or glass.
-
Keep it simple and uncluttered—let the ingredients shine.
At Gertrude Grocer, we stock everything you need to create stunning spring-themed plates, from fresh spring vegetables and berries to artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and bakery essentials. Visit our online store to shop all your spring entertaining essentials: