The sizzle of the BBQ. The delicious food aromas drifting across the neighbourhood. Visitors arriving, platters in-hand laden with goodies. Bowls of your favourite fruits, sun-ripened and in season. Summer really is a feast for the senses - there’s no better time to flex a little creative muscle and entertain at home. And the best way to show off your skills and bring your A-Game? The summer grazing platter of course! Tremendously Insta-worthy and guaranteed to make eyes light up – a vibrant grazing platter can be created by anyone no matter if you’re a first timer, or a seasoned pro. But if you’re looking for some inspiration to get you started, read on for our top tips.

The Art of the Grazing Board – 3 easy tips

1. The canvas

Every masterpiece begins with the perfect canvas. Thick wooden boards create a nice rustic base, a patterned plate can add colour and depth, or a crisp white platter can let the colours of the ingredients pop. A round or square board is ideal for smaller spreads, or if you’re really putting it on – a large rectangle platter works well for a family feast. Head to Big W and Dollars & Sense to find your perfect canvas.

2. Creative combos

To really wow your guests, think outside the box with the contents of your grazing board. Experiment with flavours by mixing and matching something sweet with savoury, such as smoked nuts alongside sweet grapes. Try bold flavours such as blue cheese with the sweet and soft texture of onion relish. Of course, you’ll have to do some rigorous sampling yourself first! Source your grazing board goodies at Woolworths and The Prickly Pineapple and Whitsunday Butchers & Seafood.

3. Presentation is everything

Simply adding everything on to your board and hoping for a miracle is not a game plan. This is where a little care and craft comes into play. Try folding cured meats into waves, slicing cheeses in different shaped triangles, and stacking small pieces of seasonal fruit with a toothpick for an appetizing and mess-free snack. Go to Woolworths and The Prickly Pineapple and Whitsunday Butchers & Seafood to find your delicious platter treasures.

Short on time? Pop into Woolworths where you can gather everything you need to create a delectably spectacular summer spread that will wow your guests long after the sun goes down.

So, now you have all the tips and tricks, visit Whitsunday Plaza to find everything you need to create the perfect summer grazing board.