Summer’s here and, with the holidays around the corner, festive feasts are top of mind for many of us. Here we share some top tips for a joyful plant-based entertaining experience, together with a winning plant-based menu suggestion.
As we dust off our aprons in anticipation of the get-togethers we’ve all been waiting for, it’s understandable to feel a tinge of apprehension about hosting a festive lunch or dinner party, even as we count down the days in excitement about upcoming reunions.
Below are our go-to tips for successful entertaining, complete with suggestions for a delectable plant-based menu that will delight even the most sceptical of guests.
1. Embrace big-plate dining!
There are so many advantages to planning your feast around large dishes that you can prep ahead: they allow your guests to eat with their eyes as they appraise the options, serve themselves what they fancy (including more of what they most enjoy), and – best of all – they let you partake in the festivities, rather than constantly dashing to and from the kitchen.
2. Think in rainbows
“Eat the rainbow” is a common refrain we hear from nutrition experts, and rightly so. The more varied, colourful foods we eat, the more we’ll automatically be eating vibrant and health-promoting fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds and legumes. Brightly-coloured dishes are a beautiful way to show off the bounty of plant-based living and contrast with the more monochrome colours that characterise conventional spreads.
3. Include traditional touches
You can nod to tradition in so many ways: a splash of rum in your chocolate tart, a succulent store-bought vegan roast at the centre of the table, a plentiful supply of roast veggies and gravy amidst the spread. This is a great way to show that we can enjoy all the best things in life, vegan style – and win over even the die-hard traditionalists.
4. Focus on ambiance
Food psychologists tell us that the vibes matter just as much as the vittles, as people’s perception of a meal is closely linked with how much they enjoyed the atmosphere. With that in mind, the little touches are worth it. Whether it’s fairy lights or special glassware, homemade decorations or little gifts (consciously sourced and wrapped, of course), include these in your party prep – and don’t forget the playlist!
A winning menu
The Nourish recipe collection is packed with inspiration, so you can scroll at your leisure for tried-and-tested dishes we love. Check out the entertaining tag for some real showstoppers, but don’t stop there. Sometimes the simplest salads can be the stars of the show, especially when you’re putting together some colourful platters to share.
Not sure where to start? Here’s a suggested menu that we think ticks all the boxes!
Drinks
Appetisers
- Four easy dips, served with crudités
Mains
Sides
Sweets and treats
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If you’re wondering how to navigate the party season as a vegan, here are some great tips from Nourish Editor, Rachael. The takeaway message? Rather than being a source of friction, our plant-based food choices can be a wonderful way to plant some seeds of change, as long as we go in with this mindset. After all, food offers the basis for connection – both with each other and with new ideas.
