There’s a lot to consider when organising a birthday party, but did you know that according to research, 70% of guests remember the food more than the activities? This emphasises the importance of carefully selecting snacks, especially a drinks platter that is not only tasty but also creates a festive atmosphere. In this blog post, we will discuss how to create the perfect drinks platter for your birthday party. We will discuss the ingredients, presentation and share valuable tips to make your party even more special. Let’s discover the art of drinks together and delight your guests!
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is an attractive and versatile way to present an assortment of snacks, perfect for social occasions such as birthday parties. It allows guests to enjoy different flavors, textures and colors at their own pace. But what exactly makes a snack platter so special?
The Composition of a Snack Board
A drinks platter usually consists of a mix of different components, including:
- Cheeses: Different types of cheese not only add flavor, but also provide variety. Think of:
- Brie: A creamy French cheese that goes well with nuts and honey.
- Gouda: A popular Dutch cheese that is available both young and old and has a mild to strong flavor.
- Blue cheese: For those who like a stronger flavour, a variety such as Roquefort or Stilton can be an interesting addition.
- Meats: Adding different meats makes the snack platter more hearty. Some examples are:
- Salami: This dried sausage can be cut into thin slices.
- Prosciutto: This Italian ham is ideal to combine with fruits such as melon or figs.
- Chorizo: This spiced sausage adds a spicy kick to the plank.
- Vegetables: Fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and carrots are not only healthy, but also colorful and crunchy. They can be served with dips like hummus or tzatziki.
- Dips and Sauces: A selection of dips completes the snack platter. Here are some popular options:
- Hummus: A creamy chickpea puree that goes well with vegetables.
- Guacamole: A delicious avocado dip that adds a fresh taste.
- Pesto: A tasty sauce that goes well with bread and cheeses.
Why a Borrelplank is the Perfect Choice for a Birthday Party
A snack board is not only visually appealing, but also practical and versatile. Here are a few reasons why it is the ideal choice for a birthday party:
- Variety: Guests have different preferences in taste and diet. With a snack board they can choose from a wide range of snacks, from vegetarian to meat.
- Social Interaction: Snack boards encourage guests to enjoy and share together. This promotes interaction and makes the atmosphere cozy and informal.
- Convenience: Putting together a drinks platter is relatively easy and does not require extensive cooking skills. You can prepare the platter in advance and present it at the party moment.
- Adaptability: A snack platter can easily be adapted to the seasons or themes of the party. Think autumnal flavours with caramelised nuts and pumpkin dip for a fall birthday party.
Sample Drinking Board
Below you will find a suggestion for a drinks platter, including specific products:
| Category | Sample Products |
|---|---|
| Cheeses | – Cheesecake (smoked sausage with cheese) |
| – Old Amsterdam (old matured cheese) | |
| – Stilton (blue cheese) | |
| Meats | – Serrano ham |
| – Salami Napoli | |
| Vegetables | – Cherry tomatoes |
| – Mini cucumbers | |
| Dips | – Hummus from Alinaz |
| – Santa Maria Guacamole | |
| Bread and Crackers | – Daelmans syrup waffles (for a sweet touch) |
Tips for Presenting a Snack Platter
- Choose a nice plank: Use a wooden cutting board or large serving platter for a rustic look.
- Play with colors and textures: Place the different ingredients in such a way that they look attractive. Vary with shapes and heights for a dynamic effect.
- Add decorations: Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley can add a nice touch to the presentation.
By combining these elements, you not only create a festive atmosphere, but also provide an unforgettable culinary experience for your guests.
The Ingredients of a Successful Snack Platter
A snack platter is not just a collection of snacks, but an experience that brings your guests together. Putting together a snack platter requires attention to detail, variety and balance. Below we discuss the different types of ingredients that you can use to put together a successful snack platter.
Cheeses: The Foundation of Every Snack Platter
Cheeses are an essential part of a snack platter. They add flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Here are some popular cheeses to consider:
- Brie: A creamy, soft cheese that pairs well with fruits such as figs or grapes.
- Gouda: Choose an aged variety, such as Old Amsterdam, for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Blue cheese: Roquefort or Gorgonzola adds a strong, spicy flavor that is perfect with nuts and honey.
- Parmesan: Parmigiano-Reggiano flakes are delicious with a little balsamic vinegar.
Quantity and Variety of Cheeses
A good guideline is to count on about 100-150 grams of cheese per person. Provide a mix of soft, hard and blue cheeses to ensure diversity.
Meats: Savory Additions
Cold cuts can add a savory dimension to the snack platter. Here are some suggestions:
- Salami: The 'Milanese' from Salumeria is an excellent choice, with a perfect balance of spices.
- Prosciutto: Italian prosciutto di Parma adds a delicate, salty flavor.
- Chorizo: The Spanish chorizo from the Palacios brand is ideal for a smoky, spicy kick.
Quantity and Variety of Meats
Count on about 50-100 grams of cold cuts per person. This can vary depending on your guests' preferences. Make sure to offer different types of cold cuts for variety.
Notes: Crunchy Elements
Nuts are a perfect addition to any snack platter. They are not only tasty, but also healthy. Here are some recommendations:
- Mixed nuts: The 'Tropical Mix' from Kruidvat offers a good variety of flavors.
- Spiced almonds: The 'Smoked Paprika' almonds from The Nuts Factory are a real flavour enhancer.
- Pistachios: These can be offered either unsalted or salted depending on your preference.
Amount of Nuts
Count on about 30-50 grams of nuts per person. This will give a nice crunch without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Olives: Mediterranean Flavors
Olives are a must-have for a snack platter. They add a unique, salty flavor. Consider the following varieties:
- Green olives: The 'Kalamata' olives from Kalliste are delicious and full of flavour.
- Black olives: The 'Taggiasca' olives from Bormioli are perfect for a little extra kick.
- Stuffed olives: Try the olives stuffed with almonds from the brand Olives et Co.
Quantity of Olives
About 50 grams of olives per person is enough. This provides a good balance with the other ingredients.
Extras: The Cherry on the Cake
Don't forget to add extras to complete the experience:
- Bread and crackers: Serve a selection of rustic bread and an assortment of crackers, such as Albert Heijn's 'House Brand Crackers'.
- Honey and jam: A jar of 'Honey from the Bees' or 'Strawberry Jam from Hero' can accentuate the flavours of the cheeses.
- Dips: Think of hummus or tzatziki for a fresh addition. The 'Hummus of Maza' is an excellent choice.
Amount of Extras
Count on one or two types of bread per person, a small jar of dip for every 3-4 people, and a few tablespoons of honey or jam to share.
By creating a good balance between these ingredients, your drinks platter can not only be a feast for the eyes, but also a true taste sensation for your guests.
Presentation of the Borrelplank
An attractive snack board can make all the difference at a festive occasion. It is not only the content that counts, but also the way you present everything. In this section we give practical tips to make your snack board shine.
Choosing the Right Plates and Bowls
When presenting a snack platter, choosing the right plates and bowls is crucial. Here are some suggestions:
- Wooden Plank: A rustic wooden snack board, such as the Nordal Wooden Serving Board, gives a warm appearance and is perfect for cheese and charcuterie.
- Porcelain Bowls: For dips and smaller snacks, porcelain bowls such as the Royal Doulton Pacific Serve Bowl ideal. These are stylish and easy to combine with other tableware.
- Glass Jars: For nuts and small snacks, glass jars, such as the Weck Jars, an attractive option. They create a playful presentation and are also practical.
Adding Decorative Elements
To make your drinks board really stand out, you can add various decorative elements:
- Herbs and Flowers: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme as decoration. A small bouquet of wild flowers can also give a fresh look.
- Color accents: Add color with seasonal fruits, such as figs, berries or tangerines. These are not only beautiful, but also add delicious flavor.
- Napkins and Cutlery: Choose beautiful napkins, such as the HAY Paper Napkins, in a matching color. Use wooden or bamboo cutlery for an eco-friendly touch.
Creative Layout
The layout of your snack board also plays an important role. Here are some tips for an attractive presentation:
- Creating Layers: Use high and low elements to create depth. For example, place a high bowl of dip on top of a lower shelf of crackers.
- Group: Group similar items together. For example, put all the cheeses on one side and the charcuterie on the other to create visual balance.
- Play with Shapes: Vary the shapes and sizes of the bowls and plates. A combination of round and square shapes can give a dynamic effect.
Sample Drinking Board
Here's an example of how to put together a drinks platter with specific products:
| Product | Kind | Recommended Brand |
|---|---|---|
| Drinks board | Wood | Nordal Wooden Serving Board |
| Dip bowl | Porcelain | Royal Doulton Pacific Serve Bowl |
| Nut jar | Glass | Weck Jars |
| Crackers | Savoury | Taralucci Crackers |
| Cheese | Various types | Beemster, Old Amsterdam |
| Charcuterie | Meats | Black Potato Jamon |
| Dips | Hummus, Pesto | Hummus from Hummus Werf |
By following these tips, you will create a snack platter that is not only delicious, but also visually appealing. After all, the eye wants something too!
The perfect ending to your party!
In conclusion, a snack platter is an excellent choice for your birthday party, which not only offers versatility but also creates a festive atmosphere. By taking into account the preferences of your guests and being creative with the presentation and ingredients, you can create an unforgettable culinary experience. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the party with your loved ones. A well-composed snack platter will certainly contribute to the successful celebration of your birthday.
