A barbecue is not only an opportunity to enjoy delicious grilled food, but also a moment of togetherness with friends and family. You probably know it: the sun is shining, the smell of meat is in the air and everyone is in a cheerful mood. But what makes such a cozy evening even better? A perfectly composed snack platter! In this blog post, you will take a look at the world of snack platters especially for your barbecue. We discuss the best choices, the most flavorful ingredients and give you tips on how to present your snack platter beautifully. Get inspired and make your next barbecue an unforgettable experience!
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is a carefully selected selection of snacks and drinks that are perfect for social occasions. It is a popular choice for events such as barbecues, birthdays, or just a cozy evening with friends. The charm of a snack platter lies in its versatility and the possibility to vary, making it an ideal option for any occasion.
Basic components of a snack board
A traditional snack board consists of a number of essential components that together form an attractive and tasty whole. Here are the most common elements:
- Cheeses: Think of variations such as old cheese from Mature Mature, letter from The Vache Who Rides, and blue cheese such as RoquefortCombining different flavors and textures is key.
- Charcuterie: Meats such as prosciutto from Parma, salami of Colavita, and chorizo from Palette add a savory dimension.
- Vegetables: Freshly cut vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber and carrot sticks can be served with hummus or tzatziki, for example from Hummus Bros.
- Nuts and seeds: A mix of salted almonds, walnuts, and pistachios like those from Kruidvat or Nutland provides a crunchy texture.
- Olives and pickles: Stuffed green olives or sweet and sour pickles from Olivion can give the drinks platter an extra dimension of flavour.
- Bread: Various types of bread such as baguette, focaccia or crackers from Ritz can serve as a base for topping with cheese or cold cuts.
Variations on the Borrelplank
The contents of a snack board can vary greatly depending on the occasion and personal preferences. Here are some examples of how you can customize a snack board:
- Seasonal planks: In the summer, opt for light, fresh ingredients such as grilled vegetables and fruits like melon and strawberries, while in the winter you can opt for heartier options like warm cheese fondue or stews.
- Theme boards: For an Italian evening you can choose antipasti with prosciutto, mozzarella from Buffalo and bruschetta, while for a Mexican twist you can try guacamole, nachos from Taco Bell and you can add jalapeños.
- Healthy options: A snack platter with a focus on health can consist of whole wheat crackers, low-fat cheeses such as 30+ cheese, and vegetables with hummus.
Practical Examples of Snack Boards
Below you will find a comparison table of different types of snack boards that you can consider:
| Type: Snack board | Ingredients | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Plank | Cheeses, charcuterie, nuts, bread | General social events |
| Italian Plank | Prosciutto, mozzarella, bruschetta | Italian theme nights |
| Mexican Plank | Nachos, guacamole, jalapeños | Parties with friends |
| Healthy Plank | Whole wheat crackers, low fat cheeses, vegetables | Health-conscious gatherings |
The versatility of the drinks platter means it can easily be adapted to the specific wishes and tastes of the guests, making it an excellent choice for any social event.
Ingredients for the Best Snack Platter
A snack platter is not only a visual treat, but also a culinary experience. Putting together the perfect snack platter requires attention to detail and a good mix of flavors and textures. In this section, we will discuss the different types of ingredients you can use and provide useful tips for combining them.
Meats
Charcuterie is an essential part of any snack platter. It not only offers a savory flavor, but also a variety of textures. Consider the following options:
- Prosciutto: This Italian ham is thinly sliced and has a delicate, salty flavour. Brands such as Citterio and The Quercia provide excellent prosciutto.
- Salami: Choose a mild salami, such as the Genoa Salami, or for a spicier version such as Spicy Calabrese Salami. Both are available at Cured.
- Chorizo: This Spanish sausage can be sliced or cubed for an extra kick. Palacios offers an authentic chorizo that is perfect for a drinks platter.
Cheeses
Cheese is a must-have on any snack platter. The variety of flavors and textures makes it possible to create a unique experience. Here are some suggestions:
- Brie: This creamy cheese is perfect to pair with fruits like grapes or figs. Try * Président Brie* for a delicious taste.
- Gouda cheese: A classic choice that should not be missed. Choose a younger Gouda cheese from FrieslandCampina for a milder taste, or a mature variant for more depth.
- Blue cheese: For the adventurous eater, a good blue cheese, such as Roquefort, an interesting addition with its strong, spicy flavor.
Vegetables
Freshly cut vegetables not only add color to your snack platter, but also a healthy dose of crunch. Consider the following vegetables:
- Cherry tomatoes: These sweet, juicy tomatoes are an excellent addition. Try the Sweet 100 variety for extra sweetness.
- Cucumber: Thin slices or sticks are perfect for dipping in sauces. Choose an organic cucumber from Ecovillage.
- Paprika: With different colours, they are not only beautiful but also full of flavour. Sun Nature offers a range of organic peppers.
Dips
Dips are essential for combining flavors and encouraging interaction during drinks. Here are some popular options:
- Hummus: A creamy, plant-based dip that goes great with veggies. Try Sabra Classic Hummus for an authentic taste.
- Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips. Wholly Guacamole is a reliable brand with a variety of flavors.
- Tzatziki: A refreshing dip based on yoghurt and cucumber. Try Kefir Tzatziki for an authentic Greek taste.
Other Treats
Add some extra treats to complete the snack platter:
- Nut mix: A mix of salted and unsalted nuts, such as Planters Nut Mix, provides a crispy texture.
- Olives: Stuffed olives, such as those from Kalamata, can add a salty, savory flavor.
- Herb bread or baguette: Serve with a delicious herb butter, such as that from Private label or Unsalted European Butter.
Combination tips
When combining ingredients, it is important to ensure a balance of flavors and textures. Here are some tips:
- Contrast: Pair creamy cheeses with salty meats for an exciting contrast.
- Texture variation: Mix soft dips with crunchy vegetables for a dynamic experience.
- Color: Make sure your drinks platter is visually appealing by using a colorful mix of ingredients.
With these ingredients and tips you can put together an irresistible snack platter that will certainly surprise your guests.
Presentation and Styling of the Snack Board
A well-presented snack platter can significantly enhance the atmosphere of any event. The way you set up your platter can have an impact on your guests’ dining experience. In this section, we offer some handy tips and techniques to present your snack platter in an attractive way.
Choosing the Right Plate or Bowls
The choice of plate or bowls is essential to the presentation of your snack platter. Here are some suggestions:
- Wooden Planks: A wooden snack board, like the one from Wooden Serving Board Co., gives a rustic look. Wood helps to accentuate the natural colours of the products.
- Herb and Spice Bowls: Small, colorful bowls, such as the Iittala Teema series, are perfect for dips or nuts. They add variety in texture and color to your presentation.
- Porcelain Plates: For a more refined look, porcelain plates, such as the Royal Doulton series, ideal. They are timeless and radiate elegance.
Color and Texture
Color and texture play a crucial role in creating a visually appealing snack board. Here are some tips to use this effectively:
- Contrasting Colors: Use a mix of colors to accent different items on the shelf. For example, bright pink radishes can contrast nicely with green olives and yellow cheese.
- Variation in Texture: Combine different textures to make the presentation more interesting. Think crunchy crackers, creamy spreads and soft cheeses. This makes the board not only attractive to look at, but also to taste.
Creating an Attractive Setup
An attractive display invites tasting. Here are some techniques to build your snack board:
- Height variation: Add height by using wooden stands or small bowls. This creates visual depth. For example, use a stand for the cheese or a raised bowl for olives.
- Grouping of Food: Group similar items together for an organized look. For example, place all the cheeses on one side, followed by charcuterie, then dips. This helps guests quickly find what they want.
- Decorative Elements: Consider using decorative elements such as rosemary sprigs or lemon slices to add color and create fragrant accents.
Sample Drinking Board
Here's an example of an attractive snack platter:
| Element | Product | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese | Old Amsterdam old cheese | Rich, full flavour and firm texture. |
| Charcuterie | Salami Milano | Mild, spicy flavour that goes well with cheese. |
| Vegetables | Cherry tomatoes | Sweet and crunchy, adds color. |
| Dips | Hummus from Hummus & Co | Creamy texture, perfect for veggies and crackers. |
| Crackers | Ritz Original | Crispy and salty, an ideal base for cheese and dips. |
| Nuts | Nature Valley Granola | Adds an extra crunch and a healthy option. |
By combining these elements, you create a varied and visually appealing snack board that will certainly appeal to your guests. Don't forget to experiment with your own creations and your personal preferences, so that each snack board is unique!
The Perfect Combination for an Unforgettable Barbecue
In conclusion, creating the best barbecue platter is an art that revolves around variety, presentation and catering to your guests’ preferences. Opt for a mix of different cheeses, charcuterie, vegetables and dips to create an attractive and flavoursome selection. Make sure the presentation is inviting, for example by using different dishes and garnishes. Don’t forget to take into account the dietary requirements of your guests so that everyone can enjoy the platter. With these guidelines, you can provide an unforgettable culinary experience that perfectly matches your barbecue.
