You probably know it: you want to organize a cozy evening for friends or family, and a drinks platter seems like the perfect way to welcome everyone. But how do you make sure that your drinks platter is not only tasty, but also attractive and balanced? Putting together the right ingredients can be a challenge, especially with so much choice. In this blog post, we are happy to help you on your way. We discuss different types of ingredients and give practical tips, so that you can enjoy a successful drinks party with your guests with peace of mind.
Basic ingredients for a drinks platter
A snack platter is an absolute must-have for any gathering, whether it’s a small party at home or a larger event. Creating the perfect snack platter requires a careful selection of ingredients that are not only delicious, but also visually appealing. Below, we’ll discuss the essential ingredients you absolutely can’t do without, with specific recommendations and tips for a successful presentation.
Various Cheeses
Cheese is one of the most important components of a snack platter. It offers a range of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds. Here are some types of cheese that go well together:
Recommended Cheeses
- Brie de Meaux
- A creamy, soft cheese with a mild flavour. Perfect with a piece of baguette.
- Mature Cheddar
- This cheese has an intense, sharp flavour and is ideal for lovers of strong cheeses.
- Gorgonzola
- A blue cheese that has a strong flavour and goes well with nuts and honey.
- Comte
- A hard French cheese with a nutty flavour, which goes well with various meats.
Presentation Tips for Cheeses
- Cut the cheeses into different shapes: cubes, slices and discs for variety.
- Use a wooden cheese board for a rustic look.
- Place small cards next to each cheese to describe its origin and taste.
Delicious Meats
Cold cuts are a great addition to a snack platter. They add a savory component that goes well with the cheeses.
Recommended Meats
- Parma ham
- A thin, salty ham that is perfect for a luxurious look.
- Salami Milano
- This Italian salami has a spicy taste and can be served in thin slices.
- Chorizo
- A spicy Spanish sausage that adds an extra kick to your drinks platter.
- Roast Beef
- Creamy and full of flavour, ideal for meat lovers.
Presentation tips for meat products
- Roll up the meats or cut them into small slices for an attractive presentation.
- Combine cold cuts with different types of mustard for an extra dimension of flavor.
Crackers and Bread
The basis of every snack platter consists of crackers or bread, with which guests can combine the cheeses and meats.
Recommended Products
- Rider Crackers: A crunchy option that pairs well with soft cheeses.
- Baguette: Cut into slices and serve with a little olive oil.
- Ciabatta: This Italian bread has a light texture and goes well with a variety of toppings.
Presentation Tips for Crackers and Bread
- Place a basket of crackers and bread on the side of the shelf.
- Make sure to offer different shapes and sizes for texture variation.
Fruits and Nuts
To balance the flavors of the cheeses and meats, you can also add fruit and nuts.
Recommended Fruits and Nuts
- Grapes: Perfect for a fresh bite.
- Figs: Sweet figs are a great pairing with cheese.
- Walnuts: An excellent addition for extra crunch and flavor.
Presentation Tips for Fruits and Nuts
- Group the nuts in a small bowl for a neat appearance.
- Place the fruit strategically on the shelf for color and contrast.
Sample Drinking Board
| Ingredient | Recommendation | Combination Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Cheeses | Brie de Meaux | Combine with grapes |
| Mature Cheddar | Perfect with a slice of ciabatta | |
| Gorgonzola | Serve with nuts and honey | |
| Meats | Parma ham | Ideal with crackers |
| Salami Milano | Combine with mustard | |
| Crackers/Bread | Rider Crackers | Serve with soft cheese |
| Baguette | To be used for dips | |
| Fruits/Nuts | Grapes | Add color to your shelf |
| Walnuts | Provide a crunch |
By choosing a variety of cheeses, meats, and sides, you can ensure that there is something for everyone on your snack platter. It is a great way to bring guests together and enjoy delicious flavors in an informal setting.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options for your Snack Platter
When putting together a snack platter, it’s important to offer a wide range of options so that everyone can enjoy it, regardless of their dietary requirements. Vegetarian and vegan options are not only healthier, but also a great way to add flavor and variety to your platter. In this section, we’ll explore different types of plant-based cheese, dips, vegetables, and nuts that you can use to enhance your snack platter.
Plant-based Cheeses
Plant-based cheeses are a great substitute for traditional dairy products and come in a variety of flavors and textures. Here are some popular brands and their products:
- Koko Dairy Free: This brand offers a tasty dairy-free cheese that is perfect for your snack platter. Try the “Koko Creamy Original” for a creamy addition.
- Violife: Known for their diverse assortment, Violife has several flavors including “Greek White” and “Smoked Provolone”. These cheeses are ideal for cutting and serving with crackers.
- Miyoko's Creamery: This premium brand produces artisanal plant-based cheeses. The “Double Cream Chive” is recommended for a luxurious touch.
Delicious Dips
Dips are essential for a successful snack platter. Not only are they easy to make, they also go perfectly with vegetables and crackers. Here are some popular vegan dips:
- Hummus: Classic hummus is a must. Brands like Sabra and Osem offer delicious varieties with different flavors, such as roasted pepper or garlic.
- Guacamole: This avocado dip is always a hit. You can use pre-made guacamole from Wholly Guacamole use or make your own with fresh ingredients.
- Baba Ganoush: This eggplant dip is a tasty option. Soom Foods has an excellent ready-made version, but you can also easily make it yourself by mixing roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice and garlic.
Variety of Vegetables
Using fresh vegetables on your snack platter not only adds color, but also nutrition. Here are some vegetables that are great for dipping:
- Cucumber: Cut into slices for a refreshing crunch.
- Carrots: Baby carrots or sliced carrots offer a sweet flavor and are perfect for hummus.
- Bell pepper: The different colours of peppers are not only beautiful to look at, but also delicious to dip.
- Cherry tomatoes: These sweet tomatoes are easy to grab and pair well with almost any dip.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great source of protein and healthy fats, which also add a crunchy texture to your snack platter. Consider these options:
- Almonds: These nuts are a popular choice and provide a delicious crunch. Try Blue Diamond Almonds for varieties such as smoked or salted.
- Pistachios: Tasty and fun to peel, these nuts are an excellent addition. Wonderful Pistachios offers several flavors including chili and lime.
- Sunflower seeds: A great option for people with nut allergies. SuperSeedz offers several tasty varieties, such as “Sea Salt” and “Spicy”.
Sample Drinking Board
Here's an example of how you can combine these ingredients for a successful snack platter:
| Component | Sample Products |
|---|---|
| Plant-based Cheese | Koko Creamy Original, Violife Smoked Provolone |
| Dips | Sabra Hummus, Wholly Guacamole, Soom Baba Ganoush |
| Vegetables | Cucumber, Carrots, Bell Pepper, Cherry Tomatoes |
| Nuts | Blue Diamond Almonds, Wonderful Pistachios, SuperSeedz Sunflower Seeds |
By adding these vegetarian and vegan options to your drinks platter, you ensure that your guests can enjoy a versatile and tasty experience, regardless of their dietary preferences.
Side Dishes and Dips: The Perfect Addition to Your Snack Platter
A well-composed snack platter isn’t complete without the right side dishes and dips. These elements not only add flavor and texture, but also enhance the visual appeal of your presentation. In this section, we’ll explore some popular choices and provide tips for the perfect pairings.
Popular Side Dishes
Olives
Olives are a classic side dish that never goes out of style. They come in many varieties, including green, black, and kalamata. Here are some popular brands:
- The Pain of Flowers – Organic green olives
- Olive Oil Lovers – Kalamata olives in oil
- Vincenzo – Stuffed green olives with garlic
Olives are not only tasty, but also healthy. They are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. Mix different types of olives for an interesting variation on your board.
Tapenade
Tapenade is a tasty paste made from olives, capers, and herbs. It is an excellent choice as a spread on crackers or as a dip for vegetables. Try these brands:
- Pesto of Fico – Black olive tapenade
- Olive Branch – Green olive tapenade with lemon
Tapenade can also be used as a flavouring in various dishes, making it a versatile addition to your drinks platter.
Different Types of Dips
Tzatziki
Tzatziki is a Greek yoghurt dip with cucumber and garlic, perfect with pita or vegetables. Brands like:
- Fage – Greek yogurt
- Free-range farm – Tzatziki with fresh herbs
Tzatziki is refreshing and can even be used as a salad dressing. It is a great way to add a healthy option to your snack platter.
Guacamole
Guacamole is a popular Mexican dip made from avocados. It is creamy and full of flavor. Some good options include:
- Holy Guacamole – Pre-packaged guacamole
- Wholly Guacamole – Guacamole with different flavors, such as spicy or with lime
Guacamole is delicious with tortilla chips, but can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
Combination tips
When putting together your snack platter, it is important to consider flavors and textures. Here are some tips for combining side dishes and dips:
- Salty and Savory Combinations: Pair olives with a creamy dip like tzatziki for a balance of flavors.
- Spicy Mixes: Serve tapenade alongside pita bread or toast for a textural contrast.
- Vegetables and Dip: Have a variety of cut vegetables on hand like carrots, cucumbers, and peppers for dipping in guacamole or tzatziki.
Sample Drinking Board
Here's an example of how to put together an attractive drinks platter with side dishes and dips:
| Element | Sample Product | Combination Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Olives | The Pain of Flowers | With salted crackers |
| Tapenade | Olive Branch | On bruschetta with tomato |
| Tzatziki | Free-range farm | With sliced cucumber |
| Guacamole | Holy Guacamole | With tortilla chips |
By integrating these side dishes and dips on your snack board, you create a tasteful experience that your guests will definitely appreciate. Experiment with different combinations and discover your favorite mix!
Conclusion: The perfect combination for your drinks platter
In conclusion, putting together a snack platter offers an excellent opportunity to welcome your guests in a pleasant and tasty way. By varying the ingredients and taking into account the preferences of your guests, you can create an attractive and deliciously varied snack platter. Experiment with different flavors and presentations to ensure a memorable experience. With the right choices, you can make every drink a success.
