When hosting a BBQ, you don’t just want to serve delicious food, you also want to create an inviting and atmospheric experience for your guests. The right snack platter can play a crucial role in this. It is often the first impression your guests get of your cooking skills and can set the tone for the rest of the evening. In this ultimate guide, we will help you choose the perfect snack platter, so you can present with confidence and spoil your guests with a tasteful selection. We will discuss essential factors and give you practical tips to create an unforgettable combination of flavors and a beautiful presentation. Let’s get started together to take your BBQ to the next level!
What is a drinks board?
A borrelplank is an extensive presentation of various snacks that are ideal for a relaxed and cozy atmosphere, such as during a barbecue. The concept of the borrelplank originated in the Netherlands, where it was traditionally used to welcome guests with an assortment of regional delicacies.
Origin of the snack board
The origin of the borrelplank can be traced back to the simple but effective way of coming together and sharing food. In recent years, the borrelplank has undergone a strong evolution. Initially, it mainly consisted of local cheeses, sausages and bread. Nowadays, a borrelplank offers much more variety and creativity.
Evolution of the snack board
With the rise of social media and the popularity of food styling, snack platters have increasingly become a visual spectacle. Presentation is just as important as taste. Various ingredients are carefully selected and presented to create an attractive and inviting atmosphere. Here are some popular products that are often found on a snack platter:
- Cheeses: Think of different types such as Brie, Gouda cheese and Blue cheese. Brands such as Beemster and Old Amsterdam offer excellent options.
- Sausages: Various types of dried sausage, such as Chorizo or Serrano ham, are very popular.
- Bread: Freshly baked bread from local bakers, such as ciabatta or focaccia, can be a perfect addition.
- Olives and pickles: Brands such as Houseman and The Olive Tree offer a wide variety of flavors.
- Nuts: Roasted nuts of Pistachio or Amadore add a nice crunch.
- Dip sauces: Hummus, tzatziki or pesto from brands such as Alpro or Panzani are ideal to combine with vegetables or crackers.
The importance of a drinks platter in social settings
During a barbecue, the snack board plays a crucial role. Sharing food creates a sense of community and togetherness. People can enjoy different flavors and textures together, which contributes to a relaxed atmosphere. Here are some benefits of using a snack board during a barbecue:
- Social interaction: Guests can stand together around the shelf, which encourages conversation.
- Variety: A drinks platter offers something for everyone, making it appealing to people with different tastes and dietary requirements.
- Easy to prepare: Putting together a drinks platter is simple and does not require complicated cooking techniques.
Example of a drinks platter
Below you will find an example of a drinks platter that is ideal for a barbecue:
| Element | Products | To notice |
|---|---|---|
| Cheeses | Brie, Gouda cheese, Blue cheese | Beemster, Old Amsterdam |
| Sausages | Chorizo, Serrano ham | House of Beer |
| Bread | Ciabatta, Focaccia | Local bakers |
| Olives and pickles | Green and black olives, Sour gherkins | Huisman, The Olive Tree |
| Nuts | Roasted almonds, Cashew nuts | Pistachio, Amadore |
| Dip sauces | Hummus, Pesto, Tzatziki | Alpro, Panzani |
Creative additions to your drinks platter
To make a snack board even more special, you can consider adding some creative touches. Think of:
- Grilled vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini and eggplant can add a great flavor dimension.
- Seasonal fruits: Strawberries, figs or grapes provide a fresh contrast to savoury snacks.
- Spicy oil: A homemade herb oil can make a delicious dip for bread.
By adding these elements, you will not only make your snack platter visually appealing, but also a true explosion of taste. Sharing a snack platter during a barbecue strengthens the bond with friends and family and creates unforgettable memories.
The basic components of a drinks platter
Creating a snack platter is an art that requires attention to detail. A good snack platter contains a balanced mix of flavors, textures, and colors. In this section, we discuss the essential components of a snack platter and provide tips for variations and combinations.
Cheese
Cheese is an indispensable part of every snack board. The choice of cheeses can vary from soft and creamy to hard and strong. Here are some suggestions:
- Brie: This soft cheese is perfect to combine with nuts and honey. A good choice is the Camembert de Normandie.
- Gouda cheese: Choose an older variety for a more powerful flavor. The Old Amsterdam is an excellent option.
- Blue cheese: For lovers of strong flavors, the Roquefort highly recommended. Combine this with pear or fig jam for a delicious combination.
Quantities
As a guideline, you can use about 100-150 grams of cheese per person. Vary the types to offer a wide range of flavors.
Meats
Cold cuts add a savoury dimension to your snack platter. Choose a mix of dried and raw cold cuts:
- Prosciutto: This Italian ham is thinly sliced and has a rich flavor. Parma ham is a popular choice.
- Salami: Choose a mild salami, such as Milan, or a spicier variant such as Pepperoni.
- Chorizo: Spanish chorizo adds a smoky flavor. Try it for example Iberian Chorizo.
Quantities
Count on about 100 grams of meat per person. A good mix is important, so that there is something for everyone.
Vegetables
Freshly cut vegetables make a fresh and healthy addition to your snack platter. Some popular choices include:
- Cucumber: Thin slices provide a refreshing crunch.
- Bell pepper: In different colours for an attractive appearance.
- Cherry tomatoes: These are sweet and easy to eat.
Quantities
About 50-100 grams of vegetables per person is enough. Serve them with a dip for extra flavor.
Dips
Dips are essential for complementing the flavors on your snack platter. Here are some suggestions:
- Hummus: A classic option, for example the Hummus Classic from Maza.
- Guacamole: For a creamy texture, try the Guacamole from Old El Paso.
- Tzatziki: This Greek dip is refreshing and goes well with vegetable and cheese platters.
Quantities
Around 100-150 grams of dip per person is a good guideline. Make sure you offer different dips for variety.
Bread
Bread is essential for completing your drinks platter and can be presented in different ways:
- Baguette: Freshly baked baguettes are a must. Choose an artisanal French baguette.
- Herb butter: Serve with homemade herb butter for extra flavor.
- Crackers: An assortment of Wasa Crispbread or Rice cakes provides a nice crunch.
Quantities
Count on about 50-100 grams of bread per person. Vary in types for an attractive offer.
Combinations and Presentation
A successful snack platter depends not only on the ingredients, but also on how you present them. Here are some tips:
- Place the different components in separate compartments or on different levels for visual appeal.
- Use a wooden board or a beautiful bowl to create a rustic look.
- Add decorative elements such as fresh herbs or edible flowers for an extra touch.
By carefully selecting and combining these basic components, you can create a snack platter that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. This will certainly impress your guests and create the perfect atmosphere for any kind of gathering.
Creative Ideas for Putting Together Your Snack Board
A snack platter should not only taste good, but also be a feast for the eyes. With a little creativity, you can create a unique and themed snack platter that will impress your guests. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Seasonal Ingredients
Seasonal ingredients are not only fresher, but often cheaper and tastier. Here are some suggestions for creating a seasonal produce platter:
- Spring: Use asparagus, fresh herbs, and goat cheese. Combine these with a dip of Alblasserwaard honey and a selection of nuts such as Walnuts from the Notenboer.
- Summer: Think juicy tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. Make a caprese salad on your plank and add some focaccia from the Bakkerswinkel.
- Autumn: Pumpkin, chestnuts and blue cheese are perfect for this time of year. Make a pumpkin spread with Bionade's organic pumpkin puree.
- Winter: Cosy flavours such as dried fruits, nuts and speculaas spices can create a wintery snack platter. Use the speculaas spread from De Ruijter for an extra touch.
World Cuisine Themes
Why not travel the world with your snack board? Here are some ideas inspired by different cuisines:
- Mediterranean Plank:
- Hummus from the Hummus Shop
- Olives from the Olive Tree
- Feta from the Greek Cheese Farm
- Pita bread from the Turkish baker
- Mexican Fiesta Plank:
- Guacamole from the Avocado Specialist
- Nacho chips from Tortilla Chips Company
- Cheese Master's Queso Dip
- Salsa from the Salsa Factory
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
With the rise of vegetarian and vegan diets, it is important to incorporate these options into your snack platter. Here are some ideas:
- Vegan Snack Platter:
- Vegan cheese from Violife
- Roasted Chickpeas from The Good Bean
- Various vegetables such as carrots, cucumber and bell pepper with an avocado dip from Avo-Guac.
- Dried fruits such as apricots and figs.
- Vegetarian Snack Platter:
- Bruschetta with tomato and basil on levain bread from the Artisan Baker.
- Mini quiches with spinach and feta from the Vegetarian Kitchen.
- Cheese soufflés from the Snack Factory.
Personal Taste and Creativity
The most important thing is that you reflect your personal taste in your snack board. Try different combinations and don't be afraid to experiment. Here are some tips to stimulate your creativity:
- Color palette: Choose ingredients in different colors to create an attractive presentation. Think of the contrasts between green avocado, red tomatoes and yellow cheese.
- Textures: Vary the textures by combining crispy, soft and creamy products. For example, combine hard cheese with soft brie and crispy crackers from the Crackerspecialist.
- Stories: Tell a story with your snack board. Use ingredients that have a special meaning to you or that you learned on a trip.
Examples of Products
Here's a list of some specific products you can use to enhance your drinks platter:
| Product | Brand | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Hummus | Hummus shop | Dip |
| Vegan cheese | Violife | Vegan |
| Focaccia | Bakery shop | Bread |
| Goat Cheese | The Cheesemonger | Cheese |
| Roasted chickpeas | The Good Bean | Snack |
| Alblasserwaard honey | The Honey Shop | Sweetener |
With these ideas and examples, you are well on your way to creating an impressive and tasty snack platter that will surely please your guests. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the process!
Important considerations for the perfect snack platter
In conclusion, choosing the right snack platter for your barbecue is an art that requires both creativity and attention to detail. By considering the discussed basic components, creative ideas and presentation tips, you are well on your way to creating an impressive snack platter. Don't forget to incorporate your personal preferences and those of your guests for a unique culinary experience. With the right preparation, you will certainly be able to enjoy a successful barbecue with a delicious snack platter.
