Dear readers, are you also often looking for inspiration for a spectacular snack platter for festive occasions? In this blog post we would like to share with you all kinds of tips and tricks to put together a delicious and festive selection of snacks. Discover how you can spoil your guests with a tasty surprise that is the perfect finishing touch for every party!
What is a drinks platter?
A snack platter is an extensive selection of delicious snacks that are combined into a delightful dish, which serves as a tasteful addition during drinks and festive occasions.
Variety of flavors and textures
A major asset of a snack platter is the variety of flavors and textures it offers. By bringing together different types of snacks, such as cheese, charcuterie, olives, fruit and even sweets, guests can enjoy a rich culinary experience.
Examples of snacks on a drinks platter
Here are some examples of snacks you might find on a tasty snack platter:
- Olive varieties: Choose a mix of green and black olives, marinated in various herbs and oils.
- Cheese board: Add different types of cheese, such as brie, manchego, and goat cheese. Pair with nuts and honey for extra flavor dimensions.
- Charcuterie: Think dried ham, salami, and chorizo for a delicious meat selection.
- Tapenades and spreads: Spread some creamy tapenades and spreads on slices of baguette for a tasty treat.
- Sweet treats: Add some chocolates, macarons or mini desserts for a sweet ending.
Benefits of a drinks platter
- Social interaction: A drinks platter encourages conviviality and creates an informal atmosphere where guests can enjoy delicious snacks while chatting with each other.
- Convenience: Putting together a drinks platter is easy and doesn't require complicated cooking skills. This way you can spend more time with your guests instead of standing in the kitchen.
- Visual appeal: A beautifully presented drinks platter is a feast for the eyes and can enhance the overall experience of your party or drinks reception.
Whether you are hosting a casual get-together or celebrating a festive occasion, a snack platter is always a hit. Let your creativity run wild and create a delicious assortment of snacks for your guests to enjoy!
How do you put together a drinks platter?
A snack platter is a great way to treat your guests to a wide selection of delicacies. From savoury cheeses to aromatic charcuterie, putting together a balanced assortment is the key to success. Here we discuss the essential elements and give you practical tips to create an unforgettable snack platter.
Cheese selection
A good cheese selection is the mainstay of any appetizer platter. Choose a variety of cheeses to provide different flavors and textures. Some classic options include:
- Young cheese: such as Gouda or Edam
- Hard cheese: think of Manchego or Parmesan
- Blue vein cheese: such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola
- Soft cheese: brie or camembert
Brand example
- Old Amsterdam: for a rich, full flavour
- Manchego La Mancha: authentic Spanish hard cheese
Charcuterie
Charcuterie adds a deliciously savoury note to your snack platter. Go for a mix of dry and fresh meats, such as:
- Prosciutto: thinly sliced and full of flavor
- Salami: spicy and aromatic
- Chorizo: adds a spicy touch
- Pate: for a luxurious touch
Brand example
- Negroni Prosciutto di Parma: artisanal dried ham from Parma
- Spanish Iberian Chorizo: Top quality Spanish chorizo
Dips and spreads
Dips and spreads add a delicious variation to your snack platter. Make sure you have a mix of sweet, savory and spicy, such as:
- Hummus: creamy and flavorful
- Tapenade: based on olives, perfect for lovers of Mediterranean flavours
- Mustard: spicy and versatile
- Fig chutney: sweet and fruity
Brand example
- Sabra Classic Hummus: silky smooth chickpea puree
- Maille Dijon Mustard: French mustard with an intense flavour
Vegetables and fruits
Fresh vegetables and fruit not only add colour, but also a fresh note to your drinks platter. Think of:
- Grapes: sweet and juicy
- Cherry tomatoes: fresh and crispy
- Cucumber: refreshing and light
- Bell pepper: crispy and colorful
Brand example
- Tasty Tom Cherry Tomatoes: juicy, sweet cherry tomatoes
- Fruitmasters Grapes: deliciously sweet and juicy grapes
With these tips and examples, you can now get started on creating a delicious snack platter that is guaranteed to impress your guests. Let your creativity run wild and experiment with different flavors and combinations for a successful snack experience. Good luck and above all: enjoy!
Presentation and styling
A snack platter can not only be delicious to enjoy, but also a visual feast for the eyes. With the right presentation and styling, you can transform your platter into a real eye-catcher. Here are some tips and tricks to help you on your way:
Playing with textures and colours
- Combine different textures like crunchy crackers, creamy cheeses and crispy fruits for a varied mouthfeel.
- Choose a mix of colours that complement each other and create a vibrant and inviting look. Think red grapes next to yellow cheese, green olives and brown nuts.
Suitable tableware and accessories
- Use wooden, slate or marble serving boards for a rustic look.
- Invest in elegant bowls and dishes from brands such as Riviera Maison or Bitossi Home for a luxurious touch.
- Use serving utensils such as cheese knives and dipping spoons to complete the platter.
Examples of products
- Serving board: 'Acacia Serving Board' from Bowls & Dishes
- Bowls: 'Bitossi Home Ceramic Bowls'
- Serving cutlery: 'Riviera Maison Cheese Knife Set'
Create a surprising element
- Add elements that stimulate the senses, such as edible flowers for a playful twist.
- Take advantage of height differences by skewering cheese cubes or serving nuts in small bowls.
Practical tips
- Ensure a good balance between savoury and sweet elements on the snack platter.
- Vary in shapes and structures to create a dynamic whole.
- Experiment with different presentation styles such as symmetrical, playful or geometric.
With these tips and examples you can transform your snack platter into a tasteful and visually appealing creation. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the process of putting together a beautifully styled platter!
Recipes and inspiration
Want to take your next snack platter to the next level? Discover delicious recipes and brilliant ideas for snacks that are perfect for a snack platter. From classic bruschetta to delicious mini quiches, there is something for everyone. Get inspired and surprise your guests with delicious taste sensations!
Bruschetta Assortment
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, for example AH Fresh Baguette
- Ripe tomatoes (e.g. Bonsuca tomatoes)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Garlic
- Olive oil, such as Bertolli Olive Oil
Preparation:
- Cut the baguette into slices and toast them lightly.
- Rub the slices of bread with garlic.
- Cut the tomatoes into cubes and mix them with finely chopped basil, garlic, and olive oil.
- Divide the tomato mixture over the toasts.
Mini Quiches with Various Fillings
Ingredients:
- Ready-made mini quiche cups, such as those from Dr. Oetker
- Egg
- Cream
- Grated cheese
- Various fillings of your choice (e.g. bacon, mushrooms, spinach)
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven and prepare the mini quiche cups according to the instructions on the packaging.
- Beat eggs with cream and add grated cheese.
- Add your favorite ingredients to the egg mixture.
- Fill the mini quiches with the mixture and bake them in the oven.
Tips for a Successful Snack Platter
- Choose a mix of hot and cold snacks for variety.
- Combine flavors and textures for a balanced taste experience.
- Use mini skewers or cocktail sticks to conveniently serve snacks.
- Don't forget to offer some vegetarian options as well for a varied offering.
Let your creativity run wild and experiment with various combinations and presentations to turn your drinks platter into a culinary feast!
Finishing: Enjoy a tasty and versatile treat
In short, when organizing a festive occasion, a snack platter is an ideal way to spoil your guests. Ensure a good balance in the composition and presentation to create a memorable experience. Let your creativity run wild and experiment with various ingredients and combinations to add a personal touch. Have fun putting together your perfect snack platter!
Frequently asked questions about our Borrelplatteau
The snack platter is mainly composed of snacks that are suitable for adults, such as cheese, cold cuts and olives. If you want special options for children, you can consider adding some child-friendly snacks, such as mini sandwiches, vegetable sticks with dip or fruit. That way, the children can also enjoy a tasty assortment!
To best present the drinks platter on a festive table, you can do the following:
- Provide a large serving platter or tray on which to place the various snacks. A nicely decorated platter or board works well.
- Distribute the different snacks evenly over the platter and ensure a varied and colourful presentation.
- Use small bowls for sauces and dips to complete the presentation.
- Add some decorative elements, such as fresh herbs, flowers or fruit, to make it look even more festive.
- Provide plenty of napkins and small plates so guests can easily grab and enjoy the delicious snacks on the platter.
This way you create an attractive and festive presentation of the snack platter on your table! Have fun at the party!
A snack platter can be used to serve various types of snacks, such as cheese cubes, olives, mini quiches, meatballs, charcuterie (such as salami and ham), vegetable sticks with dip, toast with spreads, nuts and chips. It is a varied mix of savoury and sometimes sweet snacks that are perfect for a cosy drink. Enjoy!
The snack platter is suitable for about 6 to 8 people during a festive occasion. This ensures that everyone has enough choice and can enjoy the various snacks. Have fun organizing your festive occasion!
For a snack platter, drinks are usually recommended that complement the different flavors of the snacks. A general recommendation is to serve fresh white wines, such as a sauvignon blanc or a dry riesling, with light snacks such as cheese and fish. In addition, lighter beers, such as pilsners or white beers, go well with fried snacks and chips. Finally, rosé wines often go well with a snack platter with a mix of cold cuts, nuts and olives. Enjoy!
Yes, of course! For special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or corporate events, special requests can certainly be made for the composition of the drinks platter. For example, you can indicate whether there are any dietary requirements, specific ingredients that you would like to have on the platter or even a theme for the presentation. It is always advisable to discuss this in advance with the caterer or the person responsible for composing the drinks platter, so that they can take this into account and make your special occasion even more special.
Yes, various snacks can be served on the drinks platter that are suitable for vegetarians and people with allergies. Think of vegetable sticks, olives, cheese cubes, and nuts. It is always wise to inquire about the ingredients in advance to make sure that there are no allergens in the snacks that you are allergic to. That way you can enjoy the drinks carefree!
