Pin It A vibrant, elegant appetizer tray inspired by nature&s colors and textures, perfect for entertaining Features a delightful medley of fresh vegetables, cheeses, cured meats, dips, and crackers arranged artfully to evoke the grace of dragonflies
This appetizer tray has become my go-to for gatherings because it not only impresses guests but also makes entertaining stress-free
Ingredients
- Fresh Vegetables: 1 cup baby carrots, 1 cup cucumber slices, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/2 cup sugar snap peas, 1/2 cup radish slices
- Cheeses: 100 g goat cheese, cut into rounds, 100 g cheddar cheese, cubed, 100 g brie, cut into wedges
- Cured Meats (optional for vegetarian version omit): 100 g prosciutto, thinly sliced, 100 g salami, sliced
- Dips & Spreads: 1/2 cup hummus, 1/2 cup tzatziki, 1/4 cup fig jam
- Crackers & Breads: 1 cup assorted crackers, 1 cup baguette slices
- Garnishes & Decorative Elements: 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup edible flowers (such as nasturtium or pansy), 2 tbsp roasted pistachios, shelled
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and prepare all fresh vegetables pat dry
- Step 2:
- Arrange vegetables in sweeping lines to resemble dragonfly wings using contrasting colors for visual appeal
- Step 3:
- Place cheese and cured meat slices in clusters mimicking dragonfly bodies
- Step 4:
- Spoon dips into small bowls and position them decoratively around the tray
- Step 5:
- Fan out crackers and baguette slices along the edges
- Step 6:
- Garnish with basil leaves edible flowers and pistachios for a nature-inspired finish
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve
Pin It Preparing this tray always brings my family together enjoying the vibrant colors and fresh flavors
Notes
For a vegetarian tray omit cured meats and add marinated artichoke hearts or olives For extra color include bell pepper strips or purple cauliflower Pair with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with cucumber slices
Required Tools
Large serving tray or platter Small bowls for dips Sharp knife Cutting board Serving tongs
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese) gluten (crackers/bread) and nuts (pistachios) Some dips may contain sesame (hummus) or dairy (tzatziki) Always verify ingredient labels for allergies
Pin It This appetizer tray combines beauty and flavor effortlessly making your entertaining worry-free
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I make this tray vegetarian?
Simply omit the cured meats and add marinated artichoke hearts or olives to maintain flavor and variety.
- → What dips pair well with this appetizer tray?
Hummus, tzatziki, and fig jam complement the cheeses and vegetables, offering a range of creamy and sweet options.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, arrange the tray shortly before serving or cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy for the freshest presentation.
- → Are there gluten-free options for crackers?
Gluten-free crackers can be substituted to accommodate dietary needs without compromising on texture.
- → What garnishes enhance the visual appeal?
Fresh basil leaves, edible flowers like nasturtium or pansy, and roasted pistachios add natural color and texture.
- → What beverages complement this platter?
Pair this tray with chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast.