Save A festive and vibrant appetizer platter arranged in the shape of a holiday bow, featuring an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, nuts, and savory bites&perfect for entertaining.
This platter is always a hit at our holiday gatherings and brings everyone together with its colorful presentation and delicious variety.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 120 g sharp cheddar cubed 120 g brie sliced 120 g gouda cubed
- Cured Meats: 100 g prosciutto thinly sliced 100 g salami thinly sliced
- Fresh Fruits: 1 cup red grapes 1 cup green grapes 1 pomegranate seeded 1 apple sliced
- Crackers & Bread: 1 baguette sliced 150 g assorted crackers
- Nuts & Extras: 1/2 cup roasted almonds 1/2 cup marinated olives 1/2 cup dried apricots 1/3 cup honey or fig jam
- Garnishes: Fresh rosemary sprigs Edible flowers (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large rectangular or oval platter lightly sketch the outline of a bow using parchment paper as a guide if desired.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the cheeses along the loops and center of the bow spacing for visual appeal.
- Step 3:
- Fold and layer the cured meats in gentle waves or rosettes next to the cheeses.
- Step 4:
- Fill in the bow with clusters of grapes pomegranate seeds and apple slices.
- Step 5:
- Place crackers and baguette slices around the edges or in the tails of the bow.
- Step 6:
- Add nuts olives and dried apricots in small piles throughout to create color and texture contrast.
- Step 7:
- Spoon honey or fig jam into a small bowl and nestle it into the platter.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible flowers for a festive touch.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately replenishing ingredients as needed.
Save Our family loves gathering around this platter sharing stories and making memories during the holidays.
Notes
Try adding goat cheese blue cheese or cherry tomatoes for more variety. Pairs well with sparkling wine or light white wine.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or board Sharp knife Small bowls for jams and olives Cheese knives or spreaders
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese) Tree nuts (almonds) Gluten (crackers baguette) May contain Sulfites (cured meats) possible cross-contamination in processed foods Always check product labels for allergens.
Save This appetizer platter brings festive cheer and delicious flavors in one beautiful presentation.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cheeses work best for the platter?
Sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and mild gouda provide a balanced range of textures and flavors that complement the other ingredients.
- → Can I make this platter suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, simply omit the cured meats and add more cheeses, marinated vegetables, or hummus to maintain variety and color.
- → How should the fresh fruits be prepared?
Rinse grapes and pomegranate seeds thoroughly, slice the apple thinly to prevent browning, and arrange carefully for visual appeal.
- → What is the best way to arrange nuts and olives?
Place roasted almonds, marinated olives, and dried apricots in small piles throughout the platter to add texture contrast and bursts of flavor.
- → Are there any recommended pairings with the platter?
This platter pairs well with sparkling wine or a light white wine, enhancing the festive flavors and complementing the cheeses and fruits.
- → How can I keep crackers fresh on the platter?
Arrange crackers around the edges just before serving to prevent sogginess and maintain their crispness.