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 become our go-to for holiday gatherings thanks to its festive appearance and crowd-pleasing selection.
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 platter always brings everyone together around the table during the holidays forging memorable family moments.
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.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving: 260 calories, 14 g total fat, 22 g carbohydrates, 10 g protein.
Save This holiday bow appetizer platter offers a festive and delicious way to impress your guests effortlessly.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I create the bow shape on the platter?
Lightly sketch the bow outline on parchment paper placed on your platter as a guide, then arrange cheeses, meats, and fruits along the shape to form loops and tails.
- → Can I make this platter vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, omit the cured meats and add more cheeses, marinated vegetables, or hummus to maintain variety and balance.
- → What are good pairings with this holiday bow?
Pair with sparkling wine or light white wine to complement the diverse flavors and textures.
- → How do I keep the platter fresh for parties?
Serve immediately, replenish ingredients as needed, and keep perishable items chilled until serving.
- → Are there gluten-free options available?
Use gluten-free crackers or substitute with vegetable sticks to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Fresh rosemary sprigs and edible flowers add festive color and a fragrant touch to the arrangement.