Platers and Boards is the guide to entertaining with effortless style. Celebrated author and food blogger Shelly Westerhausen shares the secrets to creating casually chic spreads anyone can make and everyone will enjoy (and envy). Organized by time of day, 40 contemporary arrangements are presented with gorgeous photography, easy-to-prepare recipes, suggested meat and drink pairings, and notes on preparation and presentation.

Shelly provides valuable tips on pickling surfaces and vessels, choosing the best ingredients, and pairing complementary textures and flavours. Plus, a helpful list featuring board suggestions for a variety of occasions (from holiday parties to baby showers) is provided. Platters and Boards is an inspiring resource for throwing unforgettable get-togethers.

Shelly Westerhausen is the author of Vegetarian Heartland and the founder of the blog Vegetarian Ventures. She lives in Bloomington, Indiana, with her boyfriend, Wyatt. Wyatt Worcel is a musician and a contributor to Vegetarian Ventures.

Platters and Boards: Beautiful, Casual Spreads for Every Occasion, is available at Amazon.com and Amazon.ca.

---

Pink Hummus

 

MAKES 1 1/4 CUPS [300 G]

One 15-oz [425 g] can chickpeas, drained

1/4 cup [60 ml] pickled beet juice

2 Tbsp olive oil + more for garnish

1/4 cup [55 g] tahini

1 garlic clove

1/2 tsp fine sea salt + more as needed

Freshly ground black pepper

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

In a food processor, place the chickpeas, beet juice, olive oil, tahini, garlic, and salt and process until completely smooth, 2 to 3 minutes. Season with pepper and more salt. Transfer to a shallow serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with parsley. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Recipe reprinted with permission from Chronicle Books.