Savour the Season with These Easy Summer Sharing Platters

As the weather starts to heat up, there’s something magical about laying out a beautiful sharing platter, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy together. This summer, we’re taking sharing platters to the next level with easy-to-create, on-trend concepts like grazing boards, charcuterie spreads, and plant-based delights that include a variety of cuisines.

Here’s everything you need to know to create 12 show-stopping platters, complete with ingredient ideas and styling tips, to elevate your entertaining game.

1. Tropical Fruit Paradise Sharing Platter

A summer classic that’s as refreshing as it is visually stunning.
Ingredients:

• Sliced watermelon, pineapple, and mango
• Fresh berries like blueberries and strawberries
• Kiwi slices and pomegranate seeds for a touch of glam
• A small bowl of honey yoghurt for dipping
• Garnish with sprigs of mint 🌿

Pro Tip: Arrange fruit into a vibrant rainbow pattern or cut them into creative shapes with cookie cutters for a playful twist.

2. Trendy Grazing Platter

The star of many Instagram-worthy gatherings, grazing platters are all about variety.
Ingredients:

• Assorted crackers and breadsticks
• Cheeses (brie, cheddar, and a creamy blue)
• Charcuterie (salami, prosciutto, chorizo)
• Fresh figs, dried apricots, and olives
• Nuts (almonds, pistachios)
• A ramekin of fig jam or honey
• Dark chocolate chunks for a sweet finish

Pro Tip: Fill in empty spaces with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible flowers to make it picture-perfect while staying on trend.

3. Mediterranean Mezze Board

Bring the flavours of the Mediterranean to your table.
Ingredients:

• Hummus, tzatziki, and baba ghanoush
• Warm pita triangles and lavash bread
• Stuffed grape leaves (dolmas)
• Cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper slices
• Marinated olives and feta cubes

Pro Tip: Use a large wooden board and add a small bowl of za’atar seasoning to sprinkle over everything.

4. Coastal Seafood Sharing Platter

Perfect for coastal vibes or seafood lovers.
Ingredients:

• Large cooked shrimp with cocktail sauce
• Smoked salmon or gravlax
• Mini crab cakes or lobster rolls
• Lemon wedges, dill, and capers
• A bowl of creamy dill or aioli dip

Pro Tip: Serve everything over a bed of crushed ice to keep it cool and fresh, and garnish with seaweed or shells for a nautical theme.

5. Tex-Mex Fiesta Sharing Platter

A crowd-pleaser for taco nights and BBQs.
Ingredients:

• Mini quesadillas or tortilla chips
• Fresh guacamole, chunky salsa, and sour cream
• Seasoned grilled chicken strips or fajita veggies
• Jalapeños, shredded cheese, and lime wedges

Pro Tip: Add a side of mini corn cobs or grilled shrimp skewers to level up the spread.

6. Seasonal Antipasti Board

An Italian-inspired platter that’s rich in textures and flavours.
Ingredients:

• Cured meats like bresaola and mortadella
• Artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and marinated mushrooms
• Fresh mozzarella balls and parmesan wedges
• Focaccia bread slices
• A mix of roasted bell peppers and olives

Pro Tip: Use parchment paper to line your board and drizzle olive oil over the bread just before serving.

7. Plant-Based Platter

Vegan options are more popular than ever, so this platter is a must-have.
Ingredients:

• Vegan cheese varieties (cashew and almond-based)
• Roasted sweet potatoes and asparagus spears
• Beet hummus and smashed avocado dips
• Fresh veggies like radishes, cucumber ribbons, and snap peas
• Seed crackers or flatbreads

Pro Tip: Incorporate microgreens or edible flowers for extra colour and freshness.

8. DIY Slider Board

Interactive and fun, sliders are a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:

• Mini brioche buns
• Pre-cooked beef sliders and veggie patties
• Sliced toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles
• Cheese slices and condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo)

Pro Tip: Serve everything deconstructed so guests can build their own sliders. Include fun extras like caramelised onions and jalapeño slices.

See also – From Sweet to Heat: A Farmers Market Guide to Peppers

9. Epic Cheese & Chocolate Sharing Platter

For those with a sweet-and-savoury palate.
Ingredients:

• Brie, gouda, and aged cheddar
• Fresh berries and sliced pears
• Dark chocolate, white chocolate bark, and truffles
• Salted caramel dip or honey
• Almond biscotti for crunch

Pro Tip: Use chilled marble or slate trays to keep the chocolate cool in warm weather.

10. Asian-Inspired Sharing Platter

Explore bold flavours with an Asian-themed board.
Ingredients:

• Spring rolls with sweet chilli dipping sauce
• Sushi rolls and sashimi slices
• Edamame pods and pickled ginger
• Wasabi peas and seaweed snacks
• Mini soy sauce bottles for an authentic touch

Pro Tip: Pair with chopsticks and small plates to give guests a complete experience.

11. Brunch Sharing Spread

Hosting before noon? Keep the vibe cosy and indulgent.
Ingredients:

• Mini bagels with cream cheese and smoked salmon
• A mix of muffins and croissants
• Yoghurt parfait jars topped with granola
• Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions
• A bowl of fruit-infused water

Pro Tip: Serve everything on tiered trays to maximise space and create an elegant display.

12. Dessert Dream Board

The ultimate sweet treat to end the night on a high note.
Ingredients:

• Chocolate-covered strawberries
• Mini cheesecakes and macarons
• Marshmallows and pretzel rods for dipping into chocolate sauce
• Fresh fruits like grapes, cherries, and peach slices

Pro Tip: Add handwritten labels for each dessert to make it feel personal and polished.

See also – 12 Most Trending Cocktails of 2025 to Sip and Share

Bring the Magic of Summer to Your Table

Sharing platters are more than just food; they’re an experience. They encourage conversation, connection, and a dash of creativity. Whether you’re serving up zesty Tex-Mex bites or an elegant brunch board, each platter tells a story of flavours and fun. The beauty of these ideas is their flexibility, perfectly customisable to your style and your guests’ tastes.

With just a little effort and a lot of love, you’ll transform your gatherings into moments to savour.

This summer, make your table the centrepiece of unforgettable memories!