Save 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 been a centerpiece at many holiday parties in my family, always drawing compliments and encouraging guests to mingle as they enjoy the variety.
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 This holiday bow platter has brought my family together over joyful celebrations and has been a conversation starter for years.
Notes
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 This appetizer platter is sure to impress and delight your guests with its festive presentation and delicious variety.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the bow shape on the platter?
Use parchment paper to outline a bow shape on your serving platter, then arrange cheeses and meats along the loops and center to maintain the form.
- → Can the platter be made vegetarian?
Yes, omit cured meats and add extra cheeses, marinated vegetables, or hummus to keep the platter flavorful and colorful.
- → What are good pairing options for this platter?
Sparkling wine or light white wines complement the variety of cheeses, meats, and fruits beautifully.
- → Are there gluten-free options available?
Use gluten-free crackers or breads instead of regular ones to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → How can I enhance the platter’s appearance?
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible flowers to add a festive and elegant touch.
- → What’s the best way to serve the dips and jams?
Place honey or fig jam in small bowls nestled within the platter for easy dipping and additional sweetness.