Save to Pinterest A festive and vibrant appetizer platter arranged in the shape of a holiday bow, featuring an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, nuts, and savory bites—perfect for entertaining.
This platter has become a staple at our holiday gatherings because it brings color and variety that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 120 g sharp cheddar cubed, 120 g brie sliced, 120 g gouda cubed
- Cured Meats: 100 g prosciutto thinly sliced, 100 g salami thinly sliced
- Fresh Fruits: 1 cup red grapes, 1 cup green grapes, 1 pomegranate seeded, 1 apple sliced
- Crackers & Bread: 1 baguette sliced, 150 g assorted crackers
- Nuts & Extras: 1/2 cup roasted almonds, 1/2 cup marinated olives, 1/2 cup dried apricots, 1/3 cup honey or fig jam
- Garnishes: Fresh rosemary sprigs, Edible flowers (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large rectangular or oval platter, lightly sketch the outline of a bow using parchment paper as a guide, if desired.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the cheeses along the loops and center of the bow, spacing for visual appeal.
- Step 3:
- Fold and layer the cured meats in gentle waves or rosettes next to the cheeses.
- Step 4:
- Fill in the bow with clusters of grapes, pomegranate seeds, and apple slices.
- Step 5:
- Place crackers and baguette slices around the edges or in the tails of the bow.
- Step 6:
- Add nuts, olives, and dried apricots in small piles throughout to create color and texture contrast.
- Step 7:
- Spoon honey or fig jam into a small bowl and nestle it into the platter.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible flowers for a festive touch.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately, replenishing ingredients as needed.
Save to Pinterest This platter often sparks conversations and makes memorable family moments during holiday celebrations.
Notes
For a vegetarian platter omit meats and add extra cheeses marinated vegetables or hummus. Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option. Try adding goat cheese blue cheese or cherry tomatoes for more variety. Pairs well with sparkling wine or light white wine.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or board. Sharp knife. Small bowls for jams and olives. Cheese knives or spreaders.
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese) Tree nuts (almonds) Gluten (crackers baguette). May contain Sulfites (cured meats) possible cross-contamination in processed foods. Always check product labels for allergens.
Save to Pinterest This appetizer platter is sure to impress your guests and make your holiday entertaining effortless and festive.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I make this platter vegetarian?
Simply omit the cured meats and add extra cheeses, marinated vegetables, or hummus for added variety and texture.
- → What types of cheeses work best for this platter?
Sharp cheddar, brie, and gouda are recommended for their contrasting textures and flavors, but goat cheese or blue cheese can be added as well.
- → Are there gluten-free options available?
Yes, substitute standard crackers and baguette slices with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.
- → How should I arrange the platter for best presentation?
Shape the components in the outline of a bow with cheeses on the loops, meats folded gently nearby, and fruits and nuts filling the spaces to create visual appeal.
- → What is a good pairing for this holiday bow?
Light white wines or sparkling wine complement the assortment and enhance the festive experience.