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 combines a variety of flavors and textures that I first prepared for a holiday gathering and was a hit among all guests.
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 This platter brings our family together each holiday season creating joyful memories shared around the table.
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 holiday bow appetizer platter is easy to assemble and sure to impress your guests every time.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I arrange the platter for best visual impact?
Use parchment paper to sketch a bow outline on a large tray. Arrange cheeses along the loops and center, layer cured meats in gentle waves, then fill gaps with fresh fruits and nuts for a balanced look.
- → Can I make this platter vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, omit cured meats and add extra cheeses, marinated vegetables, or hummus for variety and substance.
- → What are some good alternatives for gluten-free options?
Substitute assorted crackers and baguette slices with certified gluten-free crackers or gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.
- → How should I serve the honey or fig jam?
Spoon the honey or fig jam into a small bowl and place it centrally on the platter or nestled among the nuts and olives to easily pair with bites.
- → What wines pair well with this type of platter?
Light white wines or sparkling wines complement the salty cured meats and fresh fruits, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Wrap the platter tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best freshness, consume within 24 hours and keep jams and crackers separate if possible.