Welcome to our blog article “Herbs that take every snack platter to the next level”. You probably know it: a cozy drink with friends or family, and you want your snack platter to be not only tasty, but also visually appealing. Adding the right herbs can make a world of difference. In this article we share inspiring ideas to enrich your snack platter with different herbs that not only enhance the flavors, but also take the presentation to the next level. Get inspired and discover how you can create an unforgettable snack experience with a few simple additions.
The Basics: What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is a popular way to serve a variety of snacks and drinks, often in a social setting. It is an informal way to welcome guests and let them enjoy a variety of flavors and textures. The snack platter not only offers culinary delights, but also an attractive presentation that can enhance the atmosphere of any event.
Elements of a Snack Board
A well-composed snack platter consists of several elements that together create a tasty and visually appealing experience. Here are some common components:
- Cheeses: Various types of cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, and blue cheese. Brands such as Old Amsterdam and Leerdammer are excellent choices for a drinks platter.
- Meats: Charcuterie such as prosciutto, salami and chorizo. Brands such as Citterio and Bertolli offer a wide range of meats that are perfect for a drinks platter.
- Fresh fruit: Grapes, figs and apples add a fresh touch. Try Royalty grapes or Santina apples for a quality choice.
- Nuts and seeds: Mixed nuts, almonds or pistachios give a crunchy texture. Nuts!, a brand known for its premium nuts, is an excellent option.
- Bread and crackers: For a good foundation, different types of bread and crackers are essential. Think of Wasa rice cakes or Ceres baguette.
- Dips and spreads: Hummus, tapenade or pesto can be a tasty addition. The brand Mazza offers a delicious hummus that fits well on a snack platter.
Herbs: The Essential Flavorings
Herbs play a crucial role in the presentation and taste of a snack platter. They can not only enhance the visual appeal, but also enhance the taste of the various components. Here are some herbs and spices that are often used:
- Fresh herbs: Parsley, basil and thyme can be used as a garnish and add a fresh flavor.
- Spice mixes: Think Italian herbs or Provencal blends to add extra depth to the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: A good quality sea salt or Himalayan salt can accentuate the flavors of the cheeses and meats.
Traditional vs Modern Variations
Snack platters have evolved over the years. Traditional versions often include local cheeses and meats, while modern versions are more creative and incorporate international influences. Here are some popular styles:
- Traditional Snack Board: Focus on local produce with a mix of cheeses, meats and bread. For example, a Belgian snack platter can Crazy Brewers cheese and Cecina contain meat products.
- Mediterranean Drinks Board: Includes olives, feta, and pita bread, often accompanied by tzatziki or baba ganoush. Brands such as Mediterranean Garden offer excellent spreads that reinforce this theme.
- Vegan Snack Platter: Filled with different types of vegan cheeses, nuts, and vegetables. Violife offers a range of vegan cheeses that are perfect for this style.
Popular Ingredients in a Snack Board
Here's a rundown of popular ingredients to consider for your snack platter:
| Ingredient | Brand/Example |
|---|---|
| Cheese | Old Amsterdam, Leerdammer |
| Meats | Citterio, Bertolli |
| Nuts | Nuts! |
| Dips | Mazza (hummus), Pesto |
| Crackers | Vasa, Ceres |
| Fresh herbs | Parsley, Basil |
With a well-composed snack platter you not only offer a feast for the taste buds, but also for the eye. It is a perfect opportunity to be creative with your presentation and to combine different flavors and textures.
Popular Herbs for Snack Platters
Snack platters are a great way to enjoy different snacks and drinks with friends and family. Using the right herbs can make a world of difference in the taste experience. In this section we will discuss some popular herbs and how they can be applied to your snack platters.
Basil
Description:
Basil is an aromatic herb with a fresh, slightly sweet flavour. It is an essential ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine and adds a lively touch to various dishes.
Applications:
- Tomato salads: Add fresh basil to a classic caprese salad with mozzarella and tomato. A must try is the Basil from The Golden Herb.
- Pesto: Make a delicious pesto with basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese and olive oil. This is perfect as a dip for crackers or vegetables.
Enhance flavors:
Basil can intensify the flavor of tomatoes, making it a great addition to bruschetta or stuffed tomatoes.
Rosemary
Description:
Rosemary is a woody herb with a strong aromatic flavour. It has a slightly peppery hue and is reminiscent of pine forests.
Applications:
- Roasted nuts: Sprinkle chopped rosemary over toasted almonds or walnuts for an extra dimension of flavor.
- Potatoes: Use fresh rosemary in your potato dish. The Rosemary from BioToday is an excellent choice.
Enhance flavors:
Rosemary is perfect for savory snacks, such as grilled vegetables or meat, because it enhances the umami flavor.
Thyme
Description:
Thyme has a subtle, earthy flavour that is used extensively in both cooking and gardening. It is versatile and can be used fresh or dried.
Applications:
- Cheese board: Add thyme to a cheese board with brie or camembert. The Freshly picked thyme from the Garden of Tien is ideal.
- Soups: Thyme is an excellent addition to soups and broths, adding depth of flavor.
Enhance flavors:
Thyme goes particularly well with chicken and fish dishes, making it an ideal choice for snacks with these ingredients.
Parsley
Description:
Parsley is a slightly bitter herb that is often used as a garnish. It comes in two varieties: curly parsley and flat-leaf parsley, with flat-leaf parsley often used as a seasoning.
Applications:
- Hummus: Add chopped parsley to hummus for a fresh flavor. Try the Parsley from Green Kitchen.
- Garnish: Use parsley as a garnish on various snacks, such as stuffed mushrooms or bruschetta.
Enhance flavors:
Parsley can brighten up the flavors of other ingredients on your snack platter and add a nice color.
Dill
Description:
Dill has a unique, fresh and slightly aniseed flavour. It is a popular herb in Scandinavian cuisine and goes well with fish dishes.
Applications:
- Smoked salmon: Dill is a classic combination with smoked salmon. This can be served with cream cheese on crackers, for example the Dill from The Farmer and the Garden.
- Potato salad: Add dill to a potato salad for a surprising twist.
Enhance flavors:
Dill enhances the flavor of fish and potatoes, making it an excellent choice for appetizers that include these ingredients.
Herbal Comparison Table
| Herbs | Flavor Profile | Best Applications | Recommended Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basil | Fresh and sweet | Caprese, pesto | Basil from The Golden Herb |
| Rosemary | Woody and powerful | Roasted nuts, potatoes | Rosemary from BioToday |
| Thyme | Earthy and subtle | Cheese board, soups | Freshly picked thyme from the Garden of Tien |
| Parsley | Slightly bitter | Hummus, garnish | Parsley from Green Kitchen |
| Dill | Fresh and aniseed-like | Smoked salmon, potato salad | Dill from The Farmer and the Garden |
By adding these herbs to your snack platter, you will not only enhance the flavor of your snacks, but you will also provide an attractive presentation that your guests will certainly appreciate.
Creative Combinations and Presentation Tips
When putting together a snack platter, it is essential to combine different flavors and textures. Below you will find useful tips for combining herbs and snacks, as well as suggestions for creating a visually appealing presentation.
Combining Herbs
Herbs can take a dish to the next level. Here are some popular combinations:
- Basil and Tomato: This classic combination works great in a caprese salad. Try Basil of Genoa DOP from Pesto of Pra for an authentic taste.
- Parsley and Lemon: Ideal for fish dishes. A little Citrus Zest from Simply Organic can do wonders.
- Thyme and Potatoes: This combination is perfect for roasted potatoes. Use Thyme from the Garden from Herbs of Provence.
- Bell pepper and garlic: This mix goes well with various snacks such as hummus. Roasted Garlic Aioli from Stonewall Kitchen is an excellent choice.
Creating an Attractive Snack Platter
A snack board should not only be tasty, but also visually appealing. Here are some tips to achieve this:
Color use
Colors play a crucial role in the presentation. Create a mix of colors by choosing different ingredients:
- Vegetables: Peppers, cucumbers and cherry tomatoes in various colours.
- Cheeses: Choose a mix of yellow, white and blue cheeses, such as Beemster for the hard cheese and Roquefort for the blue variant.
- Fruit: Add orange slices and berries for a fresh look.
Texture variation
Provide a variety of textures to enrich the dining experience:
- Crispy: Crackers like Wasa Crispbread or Ritz Crackers provide a nice crunch.
- Creamy: Use a soft cheese, such as Brie de Meaux, which provides a nice contrast to the crunchy snacks.
- Soft: Hummus or guacamole can be a delicious, creamy addition.
Practical Presentation Tips
A beautiful presentation is essential. Here are some practical tips to style your snack board:
- Use a Wooden Plank: A rustic wooden plank gives a natural look. For example, choose a Acacia Wooden Plank from BambooMN.
- Layout: Place the larger items, like cheese and dips, in the center. Fill the empty spaces with smaller snacks like nuts or olives.
- Labels: Use small cards to label the different snacks and spices. This makes it easier for guests to choose.
Example of a Snack Board Layout
| Section | Ingredients | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Cheeses | Beemster, Brie, Roquefort | Vary in flavors and textures |
| Vegetables | Bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomato | Cut into different shapes |
| Snacks | Hummus, Guacamole, Nut Mix | Provide creamy and crunchy options |
| Fruit | Strawberries, Berries, Orange slices | For a fresh touch |
| Herbs | Basil, Parsley, Thyme | Add for extra flavor |
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and visually appealing snack platter that will impress your guests. Experiment with different combinations and play on seasonal ingredients for a unique experience.
Enhance the flavors with the right herbs
In conclusion, the use of herbs can have a remarkable impact on the taste and presentation of your snack platter. By experimenting with different herbs, you can personalize your creations and offer a unique experience for your guests. Remember that creativity and presentation go hand in hand with taste, so let your imagination run wild and enjoy creating your snack platter!
