Dear readers,
Welcome to this inspiring blogpost about Borrelplank dinner etiquette and presentation tips for a festive evening! Are you looking for ways to impress your guests with a beautifully composed snack platter? Would you like to know how to apply the right etiquette to make the evening extra special? Then you have come to the right place. Let us take you into the world of culinary finesse and discover how to make your next evening an unforgettable experience. Enjoy reading!
What is a drinks platter dinner?
When planning a casual party, serving a snack platter dinner is a trendy and delicious option that is sure to delight you and your guests. In this blog post, we will discuss what a snack platter dinner is, how it differs from a traditional dinner, and why it is a great choice for casual parties.
Contents of a drinks platter dinner
A snack platter dinner is an informal way to get together and enjoy a wide range of tasty snacks, served on a beautiful wooden board. This board is richly filled with a mix of cold and warm dishes, ranging from cheeses, meats, nuts, fruit, dips, spreads, bread and crackers to even sweet treats.
Some examples of delicacies that you can find on a drinks platter dinner:
- Jamon Iberico Bellota – A delicious Spanish ham with a delicate flavour.
- Manchego cheese – A well-known Spanish sheep's cheese with a salty and creamy texture.
- Marinated olives – Choose Sicilian olives for an intense taste experience.
- Fig jam – Perfect to combine with cheese and cold cuts.
Difference from a traditional dinner
The biggest difference between a snack platter dinner and a traditional dinner is the informal and cozy atmosphere it creates. Instead of sitting at a formal dinner table, guests can relax and enjoy themselves while standing around the snack platter, choosing dishes and having conversations. It is an interactive and socially connecting dining experience, with the emphasis on enjoyment and sharing.
| Drinks Board Dinner | Traditional Dinner |
|---|---|
| Informal and cozy | Formal and structured |
| Sharing and interaction | Individual portions |
| Variety of flavors and textures | Fixed corridors and order |
Why it's a great option for casual parties
A drinks platter dinner is the ultimate choice for informal parties for several reasons:
- Cosiness: It promotes an informal and relaxed atmosphere, making guests feel comfortable.
- Versatility: You can adapt the drinks platter to the preferences and dietary requirements of your guests.
- Convenience: It does not require elaborate table setting or service, allowing you as a host to enjoy yourself too.
- Cost-saving: It can be a budget-friendly option compared to a traditional dinner.
In short, a snack platter dinner is the perfect way to spoil your guests with delicious treats and at the same time create a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. Try it out at your next informal party and see how it becomes a hit with your friends and family!
Etiquette for a successful evening
A snack platter dinner can be a great way to bring friends and family together for a casual and fun evening of delicious food and drinks. To ensure that this evening runs smoothly and everyone can enjoy it to the fullest, it is important to practice the right etiquette. Here are some handy tips to help you serve and share a snack platter dinner.
Presentation is key
A good presentation of the snack platter is essential for a successful evening. Make sure the platter is nicely decorated with a mix of different cheeses, meats, dips, crackers and fruit. Vary in colours, textures and flavours to make it visually appealing. Also consider using small bowls and spoons for the dips and sauces to prevent spills.
Order of serving
When serving a snack platter, it is important to maintain a logical order. Start with light and fresh flavours, such as fruit and vegetables, followed by the cheeses and meats and end with the heavier and more intense flavours, such as spicy cheeses or pate. This way, guests can optimally enjoy the different flavours without them dominating each other.
Create a relaxed atmosphere
A relaxed atmosphere is essential for a successful evening. Make sure the table is nicely set with napkins, wine glasses and cutlery. Play some relaxing background music to enhance the atmosphere and perhaps light some candles for a cosy ambiance. Encourage the guests to share and enjoy the food in an informal setting.
Example of a perfect drinks platter
Ingredients:
- Old cheese from Lakenvelder cheese farm
- Parma ham from Prosciuttificio PDO
- Grapes
- Mrs. Bridges Fig Jam
Presentation:
- Cut the cheese into different shapes and arrange them on the board in an attractive pattern.
- Loosely roll up the Parma ham and place it between the cheese.
- Divide the grapes and fig jam over the board for a colorful whole.
With these tips and examples you are all set to organize an unforgettable snack platter dinner. Enjoy the togetherness and the delicious flavors in good company!
Presentation tips for a festive drinks platter
Putting together a snack platter is an art in itself. With the right tips and tricks, you can create a festive snack platter that not only tastes delicious, but also looks visually appealing. Here are some creative ideas and suggestions to take your snack platter to the next level.
Combining flavors and textures
An important aspect of putting together a snack platter is combining different flavors and textures. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Sweet and salty: Pair cheeses with sweet jam or honey, or add some salted nuts as a counterpoint for a perfect balance.
- Soft and crunchy: Add slices of soft brie alongside crispy crackers or baguette for an interesting textural combination.
- Hearty and fresh: Add olives, pickles or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory touch, and complement with some crisp grapes for a refreshing contrast.
Visual presentation
An eye-catching snack board is a feast for the eyes. Here are some tips to make your snack board visually appealing:
- Use different colors: Choose ingredients with different colors, such as red cherry tomatoes next to green olives, to make your board come alive.
- Vary in shapes: Cut cheese into different shapes, roll up deli meats, or stack vegetables to add dimension to your board.
- Add fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh herbs such as basil or parsley over your dishes for a colorful and flavorful touch.
Examples of brands and products
- Cheeses: Think of brands like Beemster, Old Amsterdam and le Verbier for a variety of flavors.
- Meats: Try artisanal meats from Brandt & Levie, Stegeman or Casa Italia for a premium selection.
- Crackers and bread: Choose crispy crackers from LU, Tuc or Wasa, or go for fresh baguettes from the local bakery.
With these tips in mind, you can now get started on putting together a festive snack platter that is not only delicious to eat, but also looks fantastic. Let your creativity run wild and surprise your guests with an unforgettable culinary experience.
Drinks and extras for your drinks platter dinner
Drinks that go well with a snack platter
A snack platter dinner is a fun and informal way to enjoy an assortment of delicacies together. At such a relaxed occasion, certain drinks are perfect to complete the flavors and atmosphere. Here are some recommendations:
- Wine: Choose a range of white and red wines to pair different flavours with the various cheeses, meats and other snacks on the shelf. Some recommended brands include Château Maris Minervois La Livinière and Domaine de l'Hortus Pic Saint Loup.
- Beer: For beer lovers, there are many choices that go well with a snack platter. Choose a mix of light and dark beers, such as La Chouffe Blond and Westmalle Double.
- Mocktails: For non-alcoholic drinkers, there are delicious mocktails that go perfectly with snacks. Try a fresh Seedlip Grove 42 mocktail with orange and herbs.
Extras for the drinks platter
To take your snack platter dinner to the next level, tasty extras are a must. Here are some suggestions:
- Dips: A good selection of dips is essential for a successful snack platter. Think hummus, tzatziki, pesto and guacamole. Try the artisanal dips from Maza for a surprising taste experience.
- Olives and tapenades: Add some Mediterranean flair to your snack platter with a selection of olives and tapenades. Choose quality options like Casa Del Olivo olives and Tastes tapenades.
- Nuts and seeds: A mix of roasted nuts and seeds is a great addition to your snack platter. Try the tasty and crunchy nuts from The Nut Shop for an extra crunch.
With the right drinks and extras you can make your snack platter dinner a tasteful and cozy experience for you and your guests. Experiment with different combinations and discover what suits your personal taste and style best!
Festive gathering with style: conclusion
In conclusion of this blog post we can state that adhering to the drinks platter dinner etiquette and applying the presentation tips can guarantee a festive evening of lasting memories. With your hospitality and culinary skills your evening will undoubtedly be a success. Pour a glass, share the delicious snacks and enjoy a tasteful evening with your loved ones. Good luck and have fun organizing your drinks platter dinner!
