Picnic by the pool

Picnic or platter-style eats are a favourite for poolside or outdoor gatherings, utilising foods in their natural state to be collated on a plate by your guests as they please.

While it screams ‘do it yourself’, it does so beautifully. Colour, texture, and construction of certain elements make a simply stunning presentation. The variety delights picky eaters and dieters, and opens the door to endless flavour combinations.

A dramatic presentation that invites no drama beforehand – because it involves just one trip to the supermarket. Pick a few elements, dips, fruit, protein, and carbs, and a few flowers or sweet morsels to scatter atop. Be creative and customise your picnic platter for each event, drawing inspiration from your guests or the time of year.

Dips: An essential component, dips add texture and variety to your platter. Include three dips as a general rule to please the most mouths, such as the classic Kiwi dip, a relish or chutney, and a hummus.
Fruit: Take advantage of seasonal fruits and the vibrant colours they present. Slice, dice and arrange thoughtfully, or halve a pineapple, hollow it, and place fruits inside.
Protein: Meats and cheeses must not be forgotten. Pop a range of soft and firm cheeses in the shopping trolley, along with a selection of meats including salami, prosciutto, ham, and chorizo to add some distinctive flavour.
Carbs: Crackers, breads, and pretzels fill your platter or picnic plates and become what people use to dip, spread, or top. Pick a range for crunchy and soft textures, and find flavours that complement or balance out the other elements you serve.