Dear readers, are you also often looking for inspiration for a spectacular drinks platter for festive occasions? In this blog post we would like to share with you all kinds of tips and tricks to put together a delicious and festive selection of snacks. Discover how you can spoil your guests with a tasty surprise that is the perfect finishing touch for any party!
What is a drinks platter?
A drinks platter is an extensive selection of delicious snacks that are combined into a delicious dish, which serves as a tasty addition during drinks and festive occasions.
Variety of flavors and textures
An important asset of a drinks platter is the variety of flavors and textures it offers. By bringing together different types of snacks, such as cheese, charcuterie, olives, fruit and even sweets, guests can enjoy a rich culinary experience.
Examples of snacks on a drinks platter
Here are some examples of snacks you might find on a tasty drinks platter:
- Olive varieties: Choose a mix of green and black olives, marinated in various herbs and oils.
- Cheese board: Add different types of cheese, such as brie, manchego, and goat cheese. Combine with nuts and honey for additional flavor dimensions.
- Charcuterie: Think dried ham, salami, and chorizo for a delicious meat selection.
- Tapenades and spreads: Spread some creamy tapenades and spreads on pieces of baguette for a tasty treat.
- Sweet treats: Add some chocolates, macarons or mini desserts for a sweet ending.
Advantages of a drinks platter
- Social interaction: A drinks tray encourages conviviality and creates an informal atmosphere where guests can enjoy delicious snacks while chatting with each other.
- Ease: Putting together a drinks platter is simple and does not require complicated cooking skills. This way you can spend more time with your guests instead of standing in the kitchen.
- Visual appeal: A beautifully presented drinks platter is a feast for the eyes and can enhance the overall experience of your party or drinks.
Whether you are organizing an informal drink or celebrating a festive occasion, a drinks platter is always a hit. Unleash your creativity and put together a delicious assortment of snacks for your guests to enjoy!
How do you put together a drinks platter?
A drinks platter is a great way to spoil your guests with an extensive selection of delicacies. From savory cheeses to aromatic charcuterie, putting together a balanced range is the key to success. Here we discuss the essential elements and give you practical tips to create an unforgettable drinks platter.
Cheese selection
A good cheese selection is the mainstay of any drinks platter. Choose a variety of cheeses to provide different flavors and textures. Some classic options are:
- Young cheese: such as Gouda or Edam
- Hard cheese: think of Manchego or Parmesan
- Blue-veined cheese: such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola
- Soft cheese: brie or camembert
Brand example
- Old Amsterdam: for a rich, full taste
- Manchego La Mancha: authentic Spanish hard cheese
Charcuterie
Charcuterie adds a wonderfully savory note to your drinks platter. Go for a mix of dry and fresh meats, such as:
- Prosciutto: thinly sliced and full of flavour
- Salami: spicy and aromatic
- Chorizo: adds a spicy touch
- Pate: for a luxurious touch
Brand example
- Negroni Prosciutto di Parma: artisan dried ham from Parma
- Espuña Chorizo Ibérico: Top quality Spanish chorizo
Dips and spreads
Dips and spreads add a delicious variation to your drinks platter. Provide a mix of sweet, savory and spicy, such as:
- Hummus: creamy and tasty
- tapenade: olive-based, perfect for lovers of Mediterranean flavours
- Mustard: spicy and versatile
- Fig chutney: sweet and fruity
Brand example
- Sabra Classic Hummus: silky chickpea puree
- Maille Dijon Mustard: French mustard with an intense taste
Fruits and vegetables
Fresh vegetables and fruit not only add color, but also a fresh note to your drinks platter. Think of:
- Grapes: sweet and juicy
- Cherry tomatoes: fresh and crunchy
- Cucumber: refreshing and light
- Bell pepper: crispy and colorful
Brand example
- Tasty Tom Cherry tomatoes: juicy, sweet cherry tomatoes
- Fruitmasters Grapes: wonderfully sweet and juicy grapes
With these tips and examples you can now put together a delicious drinks platter that is guaranteed to impress your guests. Give free rein to your creativity and experiment with different flavors and combinations for a successful drinks experience. Good luck and above all: enjoy!
Presentation and styling
A drinks platter can not only be delicious to enjoy, but also a visual feast for the eyes. With the right presentation and styling you can transform your plateau into a true eye-catcher. Here are some tips and tricks to get you started:
Playing with textures and colors
- Combine different textures such as crispy crackers, creamy cheeses and crunchy fruit for a varied mouthfeel.
- Choose a mix of colors that complement each other and create a vibrant and inviting appearance. Think red grapes next to yellow cheese, green olives and brown nuts.
Suitable tableware and accessories
- Use wood, slate or marble serving boards for a rustic look.
- Invest in elegant dishes and bowls from brands such as Riviera Maison or Bitossi Home for a luxurious touch.
- Use serving cutlery such as cheese knives and dip spoons to complete the platter.
Examples of products
- Serving board: 'Acacia Serving Board' from Bowls & Dishes
- Bowls: 'Bitossi Home Ceramic Bowls'
- Serving cutlery: 'Riviera Maison Cheese Knife Set'
Create a surprising element
- Add elements that stimulate the senses, such as edible flowers for a playful twist.
- Take advantage of height differences by placing cheese cubes on sticks or serving nuts in small bowls.
Practical tips
- Ensure a good balance between savory and sweet elements on the drinks platter.
- Vary shapes and structures to create a dynamic whole.
- Experiment with different presentation styles such as symmetrical, playful or geometric.
With these tips and examples you can transform your drinks platter into a tasteful and visually attractive creation. Unleash your creativity and enjoy the process of putting together a beautifully styled platter!
Recipes and inspiration
Do you want your next drinks board to the next level? Discover delicious recipes and brilliant ideas for snacks that fit perfectly on a snack platter. From classic bruschetta to delicious mini quiches, there is something for everyone. Get inspired and surprise your guests with delicious taste sensations!
Bruschetta Assortment
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, for example AH Fresh Baguette
- Ripe tomatoes (eg. Bonsuca tomatoes)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Garlic
- Olive oil, such as Bertolli Olive Oil
Preparation:
- Cut the baguette into slices and toast them lightly.
- Rub the bread slices with garlic.
- Cut the tomatoes into cubes and mix them with finely chopped basil, garlic, and olive oil.
- Divide the tomato mixture over the toast.
Mini-Quiches with Various Fillings
Ingredients:
- Ready-made mini quiche containers, such as those from Dr. Oetker
- Egg
- Cream
- Grated cheese
- Various fillings of your choice (e.g. bacon, mushrooms, spinach)
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven and prepare the mini quiche containers according to the instructions on the packaging.
- Beat eggs with cream and add grated cheese.
- Add your favorite ingredients to the egg mixture.
- Fill the mini quiches with the mixture and bake them in the oven.
Tips for a Successful Drinks Plateau
- Choose a mix of hot and cold snacks for variety.
- Combine flavors and textures for a balanced taste experience.
- Use mini skewers or cocktail sticks to conveniently serve snacks.
- Don't forget to also offer some vegetarian options for a varied offering.
Give free rein to your creativity and experiment with various combinations and presentations to turn your drinks board into a culinary feast!
Wrapping up: Enjoy a tasty and versatile treat
In short, when organizing a festive occasion, a drinks tray is an ideal way to spoil your guests. Ensure a good balance in composition and presentation to create a memorable experience. Give free rein to your creativity and experiment with various ingredients and combinations to add a personal touch. Have fun putting together your perfect drinks platter!
Frequently asked questions about our Drinks Plateau
The drinks platter is mainly composed of snacks suitable for adults, such as cheese, meats and olives. If you want special options for kids, consider adding some kid-friendly snacks like mini sandwiches, veggie sticks with dip, or fruit. This way the children can also enjoy a tasty range!
To best present the drinks platter on a festive table, you can do the following:
- Provide a large serving bowl or platter on which you can place the various snacks. A beautifully decorated bowl or shelf works well.
- Divide the different snacks evenly over the platter and ensure a varied and colorful presentation.
- Use small bowls for sauces and dips to complete the presentation.
- Add some decorative elements, such as fresh herbs, flowers or fruit, to make the whole look even more festive.
- Provide enough napkins and small plates so that guests can easily grab and enjoy the delicious snacks on the platter.
This way you create an attractive and festive presentation of the drinks tray on your table! Have fun at the party!
Various types of snacks can be served on a drinks platter, such as cheese cubes, olives, mini quiches, meatballs, charcuterie (e.g. salami and ham), vegetable sticks with dip, toast with spreads, nuts and chips. It is a varied mix of savory and sometimes sweet snacks that go perfectly with a nice drink. Enjoy it!
The drinks platter is suitable for approximately 6 to 8 people during a festive occasion. This ensures that everyone has enough choice and can enjoy the different snacks. Have fun organizing your festive occasion!
For a drinks platter, drinks are usually recommended that complement the different flavors of the snacks. A general recommendation is to serve fresh white wines, such as a sauvignon blanc or a dry riesling, with light snacks such as cheese and fish. In addition, lighter beers, such as pilsners or wheat beers, go well with fried snacks and chips. Finally, rosé wines also often go well with a drinks platter with a mix of meats, nuts and olives. Enjoy it!
Yes of course! For special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or business events, special requests can certainly be submitted for putting together the drinks platter. For example, you can indicate whether there are certain dietary requirements, specific ingredients that you would like to have on the platter or even a theme for its presentation. It is always advisable to discuss this in advance with the caterer or the person responsible for putting together the drinks platter, so that they can take this into account and make your special occasion even more special.
Yes, various snacks that are suitable for vegetarians and people with allergies can be served on the drinks platter. Think of vegetable sticks, olives, cheese cubes, and nuts. It is always wise to inquire in advance about the ingredients to ensure that there are no allergens in the snacks that you are allergic to. This way you can enjoy your drink without any worries!
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