A picnic in the countryside is a great opportunity to enjoy good company and delicious treats. However, putting together the perfect snack platter can be a challenge, especially if you want everything to be both tasty and practical. In this blog post, we understand your wishes and needs, and offer tools to put together the best snack platter for your picnic. From tasty snacks to handy tips for creating a cozy atmosphere, we are here to make your picnic unforgettable. Get inspired and turn your next outing into a culinary feast!
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is a versatile and attractive way to present a variety of snacks, often served with drinks. These platters are a popular choice for social occasions such as picnics, drinks and parties, as they are not only tasty but also create a cosy atmosphere. A snack platter invites sharing and togetherness, making it ideal for any kind of gathering.
Composition of a snack board
The composition of a snack board can vary greatly, depending on personal preferences and seasonal products. Here are some elements that are often found on a snack board:
- Cheeses: A selection of cheeses is essential for a successful snack platter. Consider offering a variety of cheeses, such as:
- Brie: Creamy and mild, perfect in combination with a little honey or fig jam.
- Gouda: A hard cheese with a rich flavour. Try an aged Gouda for extra depth.
- Blue cheese– For lovers of strong flavours, such as Roquefort or Stilton.
- Meats: Add some charcuterie for a savory touch. Popular choices include:
- Salami: Like Spanish chorizo or Italian Milano.
- Prosciutto: Thin slices of this Italian ham add a salty, umami-like flavor.
- Chicken fillet: For a lighter option, consider smoked chicken breast.
- Bread: An assortment of breads is crucial to balance the flavors. For example, choose:
- Baguette: Freshly baked and crispy, ideal for dipping into dips.
- Crackers: Like the organic crackers from Ritz or the gluten-free variants of Dab.
- Dips: Dips are a great way to combine flavors. Consider:
- Hummus: Like the more classic version of M&S or a tasty beetroot hummus.
- Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that goes perfectly with tortilla chips.
- Tzatziki: A fresh yoghurt dip with cucumber, ideal for a Mediterranean touch.
- Vegetables: Add some color and crunch with fresh vegetables. Think:
- Cherry tomatoes: Fresh and sweet, ideal for dipping.
- Cucumber: Slices or stalks, which are deliciously crunchy.
- Bell pepper: In different colours for a vibrant presentation.
The Importance of Variety
Variety is crucial for a successful snack platter. Not only does it provide an interesting taste experience, it also appeals to the different preferences of guests. Here are some benefits of variety:
- Taste experience: By offering different flavors, guests can discover their favorite combinations. A combination of salty, sweet, sour and bitter makes for a balanced experience.
- Dietary preferences: By catering to vegetarians and vegans, you can please everyone. Adding extra veggies and vegetable dips can help with this.
- Visual appeal: A diverse snack platter is not only tasty, but also a feast for the eyes. Colorful and differently shaped items invite you to taste.
Presentation of the Borrelplank
A beautiful presentation can greatly enhance the overall experience of a snack platter. Here are some tips for an attractive setup:
- Use a large wooden plank: An acacia wood cutting board or marble platter can provide a nice contrast to the colorful snacks.
- Creating Layers: Placing snacks at different heights, such as small bowls for dips and raised platters for cheese, adds dimension.
- Garnish: Consider adding sprigs of fresh herbs, such as rosemary or basil, for added fragrance and color.
By considering these elements, you can create a snack platter that is not only delicious, but also a visual spectacle. It is an easy way to welcome guests and create a cozy, casual atmosphere.
The Best Ingredients for a Picnic Snack Platter
A picnic platter is a great way to enjoy an outdoor meal with friends and family. When putting together a platter, it’s important to choose the right ingredients that are not only tasty, but also easy to take with you. In this section, we’ll discuss the best choices for cheeses, meats, seasonal produce, and vegan options.
Choice of Cheeses
Cheeses are an essential part of any snack platter. They not only add flavor, but also a variety of textures. Here are some recommendations:
- Brie de Meaux: This creamy French cheese is perfect for spreading on bread or crackers.
- Cheesecake: A spicy, smoked sausage with cheese, ideal for meat lovers.
- Gouda Cheese: Choose a 2-year matured Gouda cheese for a complex flavor that goes well with fruit.
Tips for Presenting Cheeses:
- Cut the cheeses into different shapes and sizes for an attractive presentation.
- Add nuts like almonds and walnuts for extra crunch.
Meats
Cold cuts can enrich the snack platter with unique flavors. Choose a mix of sweet and savory options:
- Prosciutto di Parma: This Italian ham is thinly sliced and has a salty, yet subtle flavor.
- ChorizoThis Spanish sausage adds a spicy kick to the snack platter.
- Salami: A classic that cannot be missed, choose a fine, herb-rich variant such as Salame Milano.
Examples of Branded Products:
| Meats | Brand | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Prosciutto | Citterio | Thinly sliced, authentic |
| Chorizo | Palace of Ronda | Spicy, well matured |
| Salami | Duc de Gascogne | Spicy, full of flavor |
Treats and Side Dishes
In addition to cheeses and meats, there are numerous delicacies that complete a drinks platter:
- Olives: Choose a mix of green and black olives, preferably from Greece or Italy.
- Dip Sauces: Hummus or tzatziki are excellent choices that go well with vegetables and crackers.
- Fresh Fruit: Strawberries, grapes and figs are not only tasty, but also visually appealing.
Seasonal Products
Using seasonal products can significantly improve the taste and freshness of your snack board. In spring and summer, the following products are ideal:
- Green Asparagus: Lightly blanched and with a little olive oil they are a perfect addition.
- Tomatoes: Choose sweet cherry or vine tomatoes for a fresh bite.
- Berries: Strawberries and raspberries are not only delicious, but also a nice addition of color.
Vegan Options
More and more people are choosing plant-based options. Here are some suggestions for a vegan snack platter:
- Vegan Cheese: Brands such as Violife and Coconut offer plant-based cheeses that taste great on crackers.
- Nut paste: Almond or cashew cheese are delicious spreads that also combine well with fruit.
- Vegetables: Raw vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers and peppers are perfect for dipping.
Vegan Products:
| Product | Brand | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Cheese | Violife | Creamy, different flavors |
| Nut paste | Nuts'nMore | High in protein, various flavors |
| Raw vegetables | – | Fresh, healthy, colorful |
With these tips and ingredients, you are well prepared to create a delicious picnic platter that is both tasty and attractive. Enjoy your outdoor meal!
Practical Tips for Composing and Taking Your Snack Platter
A snack platter is a great opportunity to be creative and enjoy delicious snacks during a picnic. Here are some practical tips to optimally compose and take your snack platter with you.
Choose the Right Packaging
The packaging of your snack board is crucial to preserving the freshness and presentation of the ingredients. Here are some options:
- Bamboo plates: These are lightweight and biodegradable. A good example is the Bamboo Dinner Plate Set from Ecolution.
- Luxury cool box: A spacious cool box such as the Igloo MaxCold 52 Quart keeps your snack board cool and fresh. Don't forget to add cooling elements!
- Reusable food containers: Brands such as Lock & Lock offer airtight containers suitable for the safe transportation of dips and spreads.
Prevent Food Waste
When putting together your snack platter, it is important to minimize food waste. Here are some tips:
- Portion control: Use small containers to separate portions. This prevents you from taking too much of something.
- Using leftovers: If you have leftover ingredients from previous meals, try to integrate them into your drinks board. For example, leftover cheese or charcuterie.
- Vegetables and fruits: Choose seasonal produce. Think cucumbers, radishes, and strawberries, which are often cheaper and taste better.
Keep your Snack Board Fresh during Transport
To ensure your drinks platter stays fresh, here are some helpful tips:
- Coolants: Place your food containers in a cooler bag with some Ice Packs from ThermoflaskThis helps to keep the temperature down.
- Damping: Use a soft towel or newspaper to surround fragile items to prevent them from being damaged during transit.
- Closed packaging: Make sure all dips and sauces are tightly sealed in airtight jars such as those from Weck.
Balance between Convenience and Creativity
Putting together a snack platter doesn't have to be difficult. Here are some ways to combine convenience and creativity:
- Choose a theme: This can help you make choices. Think of a Mediterranean plank with feta, olives and tzatziki, or an Italian variant with various cheeses and salami.
- Ready-made products: Brands like Buitoni offer delicious ready-made antipasti and dips that make preparation easier.
- DIY elements: Add some homemade items like a simple tapenade or homemade guacamole, which gives a personal touch.
Examples of a Snack Board
Here's an example of how to put together a varied drinks platter:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Cheeses | Brie, Manchego, Gorgonzola |
| Meats | Prosciutto, Salami, Chorizo |
| Vegetables | Cucumbers, Peppadews, Cherry Tomatoes |
| Dips | Hummus, Guacamole, Tzatziki |
| Nuts | Almonds, Walnuts, Salted Peanuts |
| Sweets | Dark chocolate, Dried fruits |
By following these tips and examples, you can create a delicious and attractive drinks platter that is perfect for any picnic or occasion.
Conclusion: The Perfect Choice for Your Picnic
In conclusion, a successful picnic platter requires careful consideration of variety and presentation. It is essential to choose a mix of flavors and textures, so that you offer something for everyone. Don’t forget to follow practical tips, such as using seasonal ingredients and bringing enough tableware. In addition, a cozy atmosphere contributes to the overall experience; think of a nice tablecloth and atmospheric decorations. We encourage you to use your creativity when putting together your ideal platter. Let your personal taste and the preferences of your company form the basis of your choice. Enjoy your picnic!
