BE THE HOST WITH THE MOST

While the low temperatures refuse to rise, the calendar is on a run. 

When last were you in a shopping mall? Believe you me, Christmas décor is already up. 

I took a Sunday stroll to the mall, and the minute I walked in, I was greeted by a beautiful Christmas tree with all its colourful baubles. 

When I looked around, shop displays were filled with Santa Claus, and I realised we are just a few weeks away from Christmas and the festive season. 

Shock of my life! I had not realised how quickly the year flew by. It felt like yesterday when we sat down and did our New Year’s resolutions. 

When I saw all the reds, whites, sparkling snow, and festive ornaments, the silly season wave immediately hit me. 

The moment my eyes landed on elves dressed in red and green, I knew it was time. 

In no time, windy weather or not, it is our time to shine. 

We will be merry and jolly. We will be hosting friends and family, we will be laughing endlessly and happy. 

The streets will be busy, shops full of sparkle, and everywhere you look, the festive spirit will be impossible to miss. 

I know we must still las here and there to tie loose ends for the kids’ Christmas drip, at the end of the tunnel, there is always light my darling.

With the festive season on the horizon, let us host in style. And if there’s one thing that never

fails to bring everyone together, it’s a platter. 

From the juicy, indulgent meat platter to a vibrant vegan spread, a refreshing fruit arrangement, and an effortlessly elegant cheeseboard, each one adds its own flavour, colour, and festive charm to the table.

This festive, be the host with the most. Everyone knows that when you host, it’s not just a gathering, it’s an event. You bring the charm, the flair, and that unmistakable festive magic that makes friends linger a little longer, sip a little slower, and leave with hearts and bellies full.

Tips for Stunning Platters

Presentation is everything, layer items by colour and texture, use small bowls for dips, and leave some empty space to create balance and visual appeal.

Fresh herbs, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of seeds can transform a simple platter into a show-stopping centrepiece.

Remember, how a platter looks is just as inviting as how it tastes, and a beautifully styled table instantly sets the mood for celebration.

Make It Yours

Bold dips, quirky skewers, and seasonal treats make every platter uniquely yours. 

Mix textures, colours, and flavours, and let your creativity shine. Don’t stress about perfection, the festive season is about joy, laughter, and creating shared experiences that linger long after the table is cleared. Every platter tells a story, reflects your personality, and invites everyone to celebrate together.

Meat Platter (see above) 

A Crowd Favourite - The mense always flock to the meat platter.

Juicy chicken wings, sticky ribs, boerewors slices, and tender steak strips take centre stage, each bite bursting with flavour and smoky, savoury goodness.

Roasted baby potatoes, grilled corn, and tangy pickles surround the main stars, while a few dipping sauces like BBQ or chakalaka mayo add layers of taste that keep everyone coming back for more. 

Bite-sized portions make it perfect for sharing, snacking, and keeping the festive energy buzzing throughout the gathering.

Plating Tip: Arrange the meat in clusters or neat rows by type to create a visually tempting display. Use small bowls for dips and garnishes to make it easy for guests to serve themselves without fuss.

Pair With: Sparkling water with citrus slices, a fruity punch, or a chilled lemonade, refreshing companions that balance the rich flavours.

VEGAN PLATTER

Bright, Fresh and Vibrant - Who says plant-based can’t be exciting?

Load your platter with falafel balls, roasted chickpeas, grilled seasonal veggies, and colourful raw veggies - think peppers, carrots, cucumber, and cabbage.

Add bowls of hummus, guacamole, and a crusty loaf or pita bread on the side. A vibrant, plant- based platter is as visually striking as it is delicious, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy the freshness and variety of flavours.

Plating Tip: Layer vegetables and bites by colour to create a rainbow effect that immediately draws the eye. Use small bowls for dips to keep the display neat and approachable. Garnish with fresh herbs or micro greens for an extra pop of freshness.

Pair With: Iced herbal teas, sparkling fruit water, or a refreshing citrus punch - flavours that complement the crisp, fresh elements without overpowering them.

CHEESEBOARD

Effortlessly Elegant - Cheeseboards are my little festive hack.

They look expensive but can be built on a budget with just a few smart picks.

Combine a soft cheese (like Brie), a hard cheese (like cheddar or gouda), and a creamy option. Add crackers, grapes, nuts, preserves, and a drizzle of honey.

For a heartier spread, tuck in a few slices of cured meat. This combination of flavours and textures makes the cheeseboard a visual and culinary delight, perfect for guests to graze at their own pace while enjoying conversation and laughter.

Plating Tip: Arrange cheeses in different shapes or wedges and fill gaps with grapes, nuts, crackers, and preserves for a visually stunning board. Small bowls of honey or chutney add sophistication and make it easy to serve.

Pair With: Sparkling water with a twist of lime, fruit-infused water, or a light sparkling juice - refreshing companions that enhance the creamy, nutty, and fruity elements.

FRUIT PLATTER

Sweet, Juicy and Refreshing

Nothing says festive like a rainbow-hued fruit platter. Watermelon, pineapple, mango, grapes, berries, and naartjies or any favourite fruit, combine for a vibrant, juicy, and naturally sweet display.

The platter is light, refreshing, and perfect for balancing richer dishes, offering a palate-cleansing burst of flavour that brightens any table. It’s as much a visual delight as it is a tasty treat, making it ideal for both kids and adults alike.

Plating Tip: Layer fruit in rows, slices, or rainbow patterns for maximum visual appeal. Add a few mint leaves or edible flowers to elevate the presentation and create a fresh, festive touch.

Pair With: Freshly squeezed juices, iced fruit teas, or sparkling citrus water - bright, fruity beverages that complement the natural sweetness and keep guests refreshed.