In a world where social gatherings are becoming increasingly important, the snack platter has become an indispensable element of any gathering. Whether you are hosting an intimate dinner or celebrating a large party, putting together the perfect snack platter can be a challenge. In this blog post, we will take you through the trends and tips for 2024, so that you can surprise your guests with an attractive and tasty selection. Together, we will ensure that your snack platter is not only a feast for the eyes, but also offers a true taste sensation. Let's get started and take your snack platter to the next level!
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is a delicious and informal way to present various snacks and appetizers, often served with drinks. It is a flat tray or wooden board on which a variety of delicacies are presented. The idea is that guests can choose what they want to try, making it a social and interactive dining experience.
Origin of the Borrelplank
The term 'borrelplank' originates from the Netherlands and is strongly connected to the Dutch culture of conviviality and togetherness. The origin of the concept can be traced back to the idea of a 'tapas' or 'antipasti' platter, but the Dutch version has its own unique flair and ingredients. Traditionally, the borrelplank is often served during a borrel, an informal gathering where friends, family or colleagues come together to enjoy each other's company, often with a drink in hand.
Traditional Elements of a Snack Board
A snack board usually contains a mix of different snacks and nibbles. Below you will find an overview of the most common elements that you can find on a snack board:
- Cheeses: Various types of cheese such as old cheese from Beemster, brie from Président and a spicy blue cheese such as Roquefort.
- Charcuterie: Cold cuts such as prosciutto, Citterio salami and chorizo.
- Nuts: Roasted almonds from Amandelmeester or salted peanuts from Heks'nkaas.
- Olives: Stuffed green olives with garlic or herbs, often from the Olives of the World brand.
- Bread: Freshly baked baguette from the local bakery or crispy crackers such as Wasa.
- Dips: Hummus from Hummus Brothers or guacamole from Avocadoz.
This combination of ingredients creates a rich taste experience and offers something for everyone.
The Role of a Drinks Board in Social Situations
A snack board plays an essential role in social situations. It not only offers a tasty selection of snacks, but also promotes interaction between guests. During a drink or a party, the snack board can serve as a central point where people come together, leading to conversations and conviviality.
Benefits of a Snack Board
- Social interaction: Guests can explore the board together, leading to conversations about favorite snacks.
- Flexibility: People can choose what they want to eat, which can satisfy everyone.
- Visually appealing: A well-presented drinks platter is not only tasty, but also looks beautiful and can be a real eye-catcher at any event.
Practical Examples of Snack Boards
There are countless possibilities when putting together a snack platter. For example, you can choose a theme, such as a Mediterranean snack platter with Italian and Spanish delicacies, or a vegan snack platter with hummus, vegetables and nuts.
Below is an example of a simple drinks platter:
| Element | Sample product |
|---|---|
| Cheese | Beemster Cheese, Brie from President |
| Meats | Citterio Salami, Pate from Albert Heijn |
| Nuts | Almonds from Almond Master |
| Olives | Olives of the World, Stuffed Olives |
| Bread | Baguette from the local baker, Wasa crackers |
| Dips | Hummus from Hummus Brothers, Avocadoz guacamole |
By choosing high-quality and recognisable products, you can ensure that your drinks platter is not only tasty, but also unique and attractive to your guests.
Trends for 2024 in Snack Boards
The snack platter is constantly evolving, and 2024 will see some fascinating trends changing the way we create and present these platters. In this article, we explore the most notable trends, from popular ingredients to unique presentation styles and emerging themes.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
With the growing interest in a plant-based diet, vegan and vegetarian platters are no longer a niche, but a mainstream choice. In 2024, we will see more and more people opting for these options, both for health reasons and out of concern for the environment.
Popular Ingredients:
- Hummus: Different flavours such as beetroot, avocado and garlic are popular.
- Grilled Vegetables: Peppers, zucchini and eggplant add color and flavor.
- Nuts and Seeds: Mixed nuts, almonds and sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.
Brands to consider:
- OliOli offers organic hummus in various flavors.
- Nuts About You has a wide range of nut mixes that are perfect for the drinks platter.
International Influences
The world as a source of inspiration for snack platters is a trend that is growing stronger. In 2024 we will see different culinary traditions being integrated into our snack platters, creating a unique and diverse experience.
Popular Global Ingredients:
- Mediterranean Olives: Verde and Kalamata olives provide a salty kick.
- Mexican Guacamole: A creamy addition that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips.
- Japanese Edamame: A healthy and trendy snack that is gaining more and more popularity.
Brands to consider:
- Olive & Co. offers a selection of authentic Mediterranean olives.
- The Avocado Show has a delicious, ready-made guacamole.
Sustainable and Local Products
A growing number of consumers value sustainability and local products. In 2024, snack platters will increasingly consist of ingredients from local producers and organically grown products.
Benefits of Sustainable Products:
- Lower CO2 emissions: Local products are often more sustainable because they require less transport.
- Better quality: Local products are often fresher and of higher quality.
- Supporting the local economy: By supporting local producers you help your community.
Practical Examples:
- Search for local cheeses from Cheese factory De Daalder, which produces artisanal cheeses with organic milk.
- Kale Chips from Kale & Kettle are a local snack option that are perfect for a crunchy addition to your drinks platter.
Unique Presentation Styles
In 2024, it's not just about what's on the snack board, it's also about how it's presented. Creative and unique presentation styles make the experience even more special.
Presentation Tips:
- Wooden Planks: Use a rustic wooden plank for an authentic look.
- Theme boards: Create a themed drinks platter, such as an Italian, Mexican or Asian platter.
- Colorful Scales: Use colorful platters and bowls to display different dips and snacks.
Practical Examples:
- Consider using the Nordic Ware wooden serving board that is both stylish and practical.
- For colorful bowls you can look at the products of IKEA, which offers affordable and beautiful options.
Key Trends Summarized
| Trend | Features | Recommended Products |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan options | Healthy, colorful, and diverse | OliOli Hummus, Nuts About You |
| International influences | Diverse flavors from all over the world | Olive & Co. Olives, Avocado Show Guacamole |
| Sustainability | Local and organic products | Cheese factory De Daalder, Kale & Kettle Chips |
| Unique presentation styles | Creative ways of serving | Nordic Ware Shelf, IKEA Bowls |
These trends provide an excellent basis for putting together a drinks platter that is not only delicious, but also meets the expectations of the modern consumer in 2024.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Snack Platter
Putting together the perfect snack platter can be an art in itself. With the right ingredients and attention to detail, you can create an attractive and tasty presentation that will surprise your guests. Below are some practical tips for putting together the perfect snack platter.
Balance Between Flavors and Textures
A well-balanced snack platter contains a variety of flavors and textures. This makes for an engaging dining experience. Here are some guidelines:
- Salty and Sweet Ingredients: Combine savory cheeses such as Old Amsterdam with sweet nuts like Jamin gingerbread nuts or dried fruits such as apricots from De Notenshop.
- Crispy and Creamy: Add crunchy elements such as Doritos Tortilla Chips or Baguette from the Bakery and combine it with creamy dips such as Hummus from Maza or Avocado Lovers Guacamole.
- Fresh and Dried: Combine fresh vegetables such as cherry tomatoes and cucumber with dried products such as sun dried tomatoes or olives from Olijf.nl.
Estimating the Right Portions
It is important to estimate the right amounts so that there is enough for everyone without too much left over. A good rule of thumb is:
- Cheese: Approximately 100-150 grams per person.
- Meats: Between 50-100 grams per person.
- Bread: Count on 1-2 pieces per person.
- Dips: Approximately 50 grams per person.
A clear table might look like this:
| Ingredient | Amount per person |
|---|---|
| Cheese | 100-150 grams |
| Meats | 50-100 grams |
| Bread | 1-2 pieces |
| Dips | 50 grams |
Creative Presentation
The presentation of your snack platter can make a big difference in the overall experience. Here are some tips to make your platter look appealing:
- Use of Various Signs: Choose different types of boards, such as a wooden board of Kähler Design or a marble serving dish of Bloomingville. This adds a luxurious look.
- Garnishes: Add color with fresh herbs such as parsley or basilThis makes the presentation more lively.
- Layout: Place larger items, such as cheeses and meats, in the center and fill in the edges with smaller items such as nuts and dips. Keep the layout playful and asymmetrical to keep things visually interesting.
- Tags: Consider making small labels with the names of the products. This makes it easier for your guests to choose and adds a personal touch.
Specific Product Recommendations
Here are some specific products to consider for your snack board:
- Cheeses: Beemster Old and Brie de Meaux are excellent choices because of their rich flavors.
- Meats: Serrano ham from Citterio and Chorizo from Palacios add an authentic Spanish flair.
- Dips: Usage Pesto Red from Sacla or Tzatziki from Alpro for delicious and surprising flavours.
- Nuts: Bouchard almonds and Pecan nuts from De Notenshop are perfect for adding a crunchy texture.
By following these tips, you can create a snack platter that is not only delicious, but also provides a visual spectacle that will delight your guests.
Conclusion: Summary of the best tips and trends for your ideal drinks platter in 2024
In conclusion, creating the perfect snack platter requires a good balance between presentation and taste. By keeping the trends of 2024 in mind, such as using sustainable and local ingredients, you can take your snack platter to the next level. Dare to experiment with new flavors and combinations to create an unforgettable snack experience for yourself and your guests. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the process of creating your own unique snack platter.
