Al Fresco Feasts: Garnish Ideas for Outdoor Dining

1. Floral Pops for Sharing Platters

Sharing boards are perfect for outdoor gatherings – think cheeses, charcuterie, or mezze spreads. Scatter nasturtium flowers for a peppery kick, or cornflowers for a delicate splash of blue. Not only do they look stunning against wooden boards, but they also add surprising notes of flavour

2. Cocktail Hour, but Make it Bloom

Spritzes, iced teas, and mocktails feel instantly elevated with a few floating petals or a sprig of fresh herb. Try violas for a sweet touch or borage for a cool, cucumber-like freshness – especially perfect for gin-based drinks.

3. Salads That Steal the Show

Late summer is peak time for micro herbs and vibrant edible blooms. Toss in micro red amaranth for a hint of drama or calendula petals for warm, sunny tones. These small additions make salads feel abundant and joyful.

4. Sweet Endings in the Open Air

For puddings enjoyed under fairy lights, go big on edible flowers. A bowl of strawberries becomes something else entirely with a scattering of rose petals and mint herbs. Pavlovas, fruit tarts, or even simple scoops of vanilla ice cream can all be dressed to impress.

5. A Touch of the Unexpected

Mix warm and cool tones – golden marigolds against deep purple violas, or add micro fennel to fruit dishes for a fragrant twist. Outdoor dining invites playfulness, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

The Final Bite

Al fresco dining may be fleeting, but with the right garnish, those end-of-summer suppers can be unforgettable. Whether you’re plating for friends or a restaurant full of guests, fresh garnishes bring the beauty (and flavour) of the season right to the table.

🌿 Browse our range of edible flowers, micro herbs, and garnishes here – and make your last summer feasts ones to remember.