In the world of snack platters, there is nothing more enriching than using seasonal ingredients. You are probably familiar with the feeling of satisfaction when you can treat your guests to a carefully composed charcuterie that is not only visually appealing, but also reflects the flavors of the season. In this blog post, we invite you to join us in exploring the varieties of meats that are perfect for every season. Whether it’s the fresh flavors of spring or the savory delights of winter, we offer you practical tips and creative presentation ideas to make your snack platter a true taste experience. Let’s discover the art of seasonal charcuterie together!
Spring: Fresh and Airy
Spring brings with it an abundance of fresh, seasonal ingredients that are perfect for a light and airy snack platter. In this section, we explore the different possibilities to enrich your spring snack platter with delicious meats, vegetables, cheeses and dips.
Light Meats
When putting together a spring drink platter, light meats are an excellent choice. They are not only tasty, but also easy to combine with other ingredients. Here are some suggestions:
- Prosciutto di Parma: This Italian ham is delicate and salty in taste. It goes perfectly with sweet fruits such as melon or figs.
- Salami Milano: The mild taste and fine structure of Salami Milano make for a pleasant change on the platter. Try combining it with a mustard dip for extra spice.
Brands to Consider
- Parma Ham: Good quality prosciutto, available at most delicatessens.
- Salami from Van der LindeThis local butcher offers artisanal salami that is ideal for a luxurious snack platter.
Fresh Vegetables
Fresh vegetables add not only color but also a crunchy texture to your snack platter. Consider the following vegetables:
- Radishes: These have a spicy flavor and are perfect for dipping. Cut them in half for an attractive presentation.
- Cucumber: The refreshing and crunchy nature of cucumber makes it an excellent choice. Cut them into thin slices or sticks for a playful look.
Vegetables in the Spotlight
| Vegetable | Flavor Profile | Preparation tip |
|---|---|---|
| Radishes | Spicy | Halve or cut into slices |
| Cucumber | Fresh and crispy | Cut into sticks or slices |
Delicious Cheeses
A cheese platter without cheese is like a party without music. Here are some cheeses that are perfect for spring:
- Brie: This soft cheese is creamy and mild, making it an ideal complement to salty meats.
- Goat Cheese: The fresh and slightly spicy taste of goat cheese goes perfectly with the crunchy vegetables. Try it with a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.
Recommended Cheeses
- Brie de Meaux: An authentic French brie with a rich flavour, available at specialist cheese shops.
- Goat cheese from the Cheese Farm: A local producer offering organic goat cheese, perfect for your board.
Dips and Sauces
Dips are a great way to add extra flavor to your snack platter. Here are some ideas:
- Hummus: This chickpea dip is not only delicious, but healthy too. Try variations like beetroot or avocado for extra color and flavor.
- Tzatziki: This Greek yogurt dip with cucumber and garlic adds a refreshing element to the platter.
Dips in the Spotlight
| Dip | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Hummus | Chickpeas, tahini | Creamy and savory |
| Tzatziki | Yogurt, cucumber, garlic | Fresh and spicy |
By combining these ingredients and tips, you can easily create a spring snack platter that is not only appealing to the eye, but also a delight to the taste buds. Enjoy the fresh flavors that spring has to offer!
Summer: Sunny Flavors
Summer is the season of sunny days, long evenings and flavoursome dishes. It’s the perfect time to indulge in a range of flavours that complement the warm weather. In this blog section, we’ll focus on flavoursome and cured meats, and how to pair them with refreshing fruits and white wine for the ultimate summer experience.
Tasty Meats
In summer we want to enjoy dishes that are not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavour. Smoked meats are an excellent choice.
Chorizo
Chorizo is a popular Spanish sausage that offers a spicy and smoky flavor. It can be served sliced as part of a tapas platter or added to salads for an extra kick. A specific recommendation is the Palaces Chorizo, which is known for its authentic taste and quality.
Roast beef
Roast beef offers a more refined option for the warmer months. It can be served cold on a sandwich or as part of a luxurious antipasti platter. The Hertog Jan Roast Beef is an excellent choice that offers a pleasant balance between tenderness and flavor.
Fruity Combinations
Fruit is a fantastic complement to the rich flavors of cold cuts. In the summer, there are several types of fruit that go perfectly with charcuterie.
Melon
Melon, such as Galia or Cantaloupe, offers a refreshing sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savoriness of cured meats. Cut the melon into cubes or serve it in slices, and pair it with a little prosciutto for a delicious taste experience.
Strawberries
Strawberries are not only a popular summer fruit, but they are also a perfect complement to cold cuts. Try combining sliced strawberries with roast beef and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a surprising and refreshing dish.
White Wine Pairings
To complement the flavors of cold cuts and fruit, a crisp white wine is essential.
Sauvignon Blanc
An excellent choice is Cloudy Bay Sauvignon BlancThis wine has a bright acidity and aromas of citrus and green apple, making it a perfect match for both chorizo and fruit.
Pinot Grigio
Another recommendation is the Santa Margherita Pinot GrigioThis wine is light and refreshing, with a subtle fruitiness that accentuates the flavors of the melon and strawberries.
Practical Tips for the Perfect Summer Plank
Here are some tips to create a tasty and attractive summer platter:
- Choose a nice wooden plank: A large wooden cutting board is ideal for presenting cold cuts and fruit.
- Variety of colors: Combine different types of meats and fruits for a visually appealing presentation.
- Add nuts and cheese: Almonds, walnuts or a soft brie can be a delicious addition to your plank.
- Use fresh herbs: A sprig of mint or basil can add a fresh scent and extra flavor to your presentation.
Example of a Summer Plank
| Product | Recommended Brand | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Chorizo | Palaces Chorizo | Smoky and spicy |
| Roast beef | Hertog Jan Roast Beef | Tender and full of flavour |
| Melon | Galia or Cantaloupe | Sweet and refreshing |
| Strawberries | Fresh seasonal strawberries | Sweet and juicy |
| White wine | Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc | Clear and fresh, perfect combination |
| White wine | Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio | Light and fruity |
By choosing this combination of tasty meats, fresh fruit and crisp wines, you create a delicious summer experience that your guests will surely appreciate. Enjoy this season full of sunny flavors!
Fall: Savory Combinations
Autumn is a season that invites us to enjoy the richness of flavours that nature has to offer. The cooler temperatures and the abundance of local products make it the perfect time to experiment with hearty dishes and combinations. In this blog, we give you practical tips and examples to enrich your autumn meals with robust flavours.
Smoked Meats
Smoked meats are a great choice for fall dishes. They add a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with other savory ingredients. Some popular options include:
- Serrano Ham – This Spanish ham has a rich, salty flavor that goes well with an autumnal cheese platter.
- Bresaola – This Italian dried beef is lean and has an intense flavor. It is delicious in combination with fresh arugula and Parmesan cheese.
- Smoked Chicken Fillet from Plukon – This chicken fillet is ideal for salads or as an addition to a hot dish.
Practical Tips for Combinations
- Serve smoked meats with a selection of different cheeses.
- For example, add nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a crunch.
- Use dried fruit, such as figs or apricots, to provide a sweet counterpoint to the salty flavors.
Firm Cheeses
Cheeses play a crucial role in creating a hearty fall experience. For this season, aged cheeses and blue cheeses are perfect. Some recommendations are:
- Old Amsterdam Matured Cheese – This cheese has a strong flavor and a grainy texture that makes it perfect for a cheese board.
- Roquefort – This French blue cheese has an intense flavour and a creamy texture. Ideal to combine with nuts and fruit.
- Gorgonzola Piccante – This spicy blue cheese is delicious in risotto or as a topping on a pizza.
Combination Suggestions
- Combine Old Mature Cheese with some nuts, such as pecans and hazelnuts.
- Make a salad with arugula, pieces of Roquefort, walnuts and a balsamic vinegar dressing.
- Add Gorgonzola Piccante to a warm pasta with mushrooms for a hearty meal.
Nuts and Dried Fruit
Nuts and dried fruits are not only a great addition to your dish, but they also provide an interesting texture and flavor dimension. Consider the following options:
- Walnuts – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and a perfect complement to both cheeses and meats.
- Almonds – They are delicious roasted with a little sea salt and go well with both sweet and savoury dishes.
- Dried Figs – This sweet treat goes well with strong-flavored cheeses and can even be added to salads.
Examples of Combinations
- Make an autumn salad with mixed lettuce, walnuts, dried figs and an olive oil and lemon dressing.
- Serve almonds as a savory snack with a glass of red wine and a selection of cheeses.
- Add dried apricots to a couscous dish with herbs and vegetables for extra sweetness and texture.
Overview of Savory Combinations
| Ingredient | Combinations | Products |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked Meats | Cheese board, Salads | Serrano Ham, Bresaola |
| Firm Cheeses | Salads, Risotto, Pizza | Old Amsterdam, Roquefort |
| Nuts | Snacks, Salads, Dishes | Walnuts, Almonds |
| Dried Fruit | Salads, Snacks, Couscous dishes | Dried Figs, Apricots |
By using high-quality products and a variety of flavors, you can enjoy the hearty combinations that fall has to offer. Experiment with the suggestions above and discover your favorite fall dishes.
The perfect ending to any season
In conclusion, creating a seasonal charcuterie for your snack board not only offers a culinary experience, but also supports local producers and sustainable eating habits. By embracing the different flavors and textures that each season has to offer, you can surprise your guests every time. Don’t forget to explore local markets and get creative so that your snack board is always in line with the season. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
