A classic cheese board is a common go-to for entertaining, but perhaps it’s starting to feel a little overdone. There’s no shortage of acceptable alternatives, but we’ve narrowed it down to our five top picks.So, if you’re looking to step up your entertaining game and dazzle your guests, try your hand at one of these.
Mediterannean Mezze Platter
A mezze platter is quick, delicious and easy to assemble. Dips and vegetables reign supreme here, so be sure to include plenty of grilled eggplant, dried figs, carrot sticks, hummus, stuffed olives, dolmades and bread with olive oil. If you want to take it up a notch, carve out the inside of a capsicum and fill it with zesty tzatziki – impressive and edible!
Fruit And Cured Meat Medley
There’s no denying that charcuterie and fruit go hand in hand (just ask prosciutto wrapped melon). You can include anything from dried apricots and grapes, to chorizo and salumi. You can add other bite-sized snacks like roasted nuts, pickles, bread and honey. Perfection.
Vegan Feast
Vegan platters are a great way to ensure that there’s something for all your guests to enjoy. In the absence of meat and cheese, the stars of the show are fruits, vegetables, nuts and assorted dips like hummus. You can even venture into the nut-cheese territory if you’re feeling adventurous (most probably won’t be able to tell the difference!) Finish it off with some sundried tomatoes, marinated olives and veggie sticks and voila!
Crudité Creation
The name sounds very fancy but it’s really just a glorified veggie platter. The best vegetables to slice up are cucumber, capsicum, carrot and celery. Pair it off with a zesty dip like tzatziki and it’s sure to be a winner.
Scandi Smorgasbord
A Scandinavian platter is certainly unique with dishes like smoked fish/salmon, pickled vegetables, rye bread and boiled eggs. You could even add a potato salad if you’re looking for something heartier.