Half of Britons claim the shift in seasons literally brings a ‘spring in their step’. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 86% experience an uplift in spirits with the onset of spring, and 37% find it stimulates their senses.
While many enjoy the sense of adventure that comes with the improved weather, many view it as an ideal time for entertaining, relishing in picnics and barbecues, and seizing the chance to enjoy al fresco dining.
The research was commissioned by Boursin cheese, which collaborated with hosting expert and food columnist Alexandra Dudley, to provide her top tips on how to level up your hosting this spring.
Alexandra designed a vibrant crudite centrepiece – the ‘Boursin Bloom Board’ – composed of colourful seasonal vegetables arranged in the form of budding flowers to commemorate the signs of the new season, her suggested showstopper for spring dinner parties.
Alexandra expressed: “Spring is a lovely time to gather with friends and family, and to unleash your creative side, both in the kitchen and on the table.
“The vibrant colours of fresh produce and maximalist table décor make it the perfect hosting season, and crowd-pleasing ingredients that elevate simple dishes can be an endless source of inspiration.”
Research indicates that eight out of 10 individuals, place a high value on the visual appeal of the food they serve, investing considerable effort into presenting their dishes in an attractive manner. Moreover, a third of respondents believe that the presentation of food is equally as important as its taste.
A spokesperson from Boursin commented: “As spring approaches and flowers start to bloom, we often see a spark of culinary inspiration and Brits exploring fun new ways to experience food with others.
“Sharing a delicious meal is one of the key ways we can connect with the important people in our lives, and incorporating the flavours, colours, and flora of spring can elevate those special moments.”
ALEXANDRA’S TOP TIPS FOR HOSTING AN EVELVATED SPRING GATHERING:
Embrace colour
A vibrant crudité board is an effortless crowd-pleasing way to welcome your guests, and easy to re-create on any scale – make sure you include lots of colours from seasonal vegetables like pink radishes, green sugar snaps, and orange carrots.
Prep ahead
Prepping ahead is key, and there’s usually a lot you can make ahead of time – dressings, sauces, herbs even prepping vegetables can all be done the morning of or night before.
Go big on sharing dishes
Sharing dishes lend themselves so well to entertaining outdoors, as you can spend less time plating up and more time at the table – I love to prepare big, colourful salads that can be tossed or dressed just before serving.
Lean into what’s in season
Food always tastes at its best when it is in season and even better if it hasn’t had to travel too far, so try seeking out local vegetable producers and markets if time allows. Try British asparagus, perky pink radishes, and the first of the spring carrots and greens popping up in the garden.