How to Make a Snack Platter That Will Tempt Everyone at the Picnic?

A picnic is a great opportunity to spend time with friends and family, but it can sometimes be a challenge to create the right atmosphere. After all, you want your guests to enjoy delicious snacks and an attractive presentation. In this blog post, we will help you put together a snack platter that is not only tasty, but also visually appealing. Together, we will explore the essential elements that make your snack platter irresistible, so that you can proudly enjoy the compliments of your company. Let's get started on creating an unforgettable picnic experience!

The Basics: What is a Borrelplank?

A snack platter is a versatile and attractive dish consisting of a mix of snacks, perfect for sharing at social gatherings. It is a popular choice for drinks, parties, and even picnics. In this section, we will delve deeper into the origins, popularity, and different elements of a snack platter, as well as tips for creating a balanced mix of flavors and textures.

Origin and Popularity of Snack Boards

The origin of the borrelplank goes back to the traditional way of eating together in the Mediterranean and Scandinavian cultures, where sharing food is an important social aspect. In the Netherlands, the borrelplank has gained enormous popularity in recent years. With the rise of borrelcafés and restaurants that specialize in these dishes, the borrelplank has become an indispensable part of Dutch food culture.

What does a snack platter contain?

A snack platter can contain a variety of ingredients, depending on personal preferences and season. Here are some common elements you can find on a snack platter:

• Cheeses: A selection of different cheeses such as:
  • Brie (for example from Kromwijk Cheese Farm)
  • Gouda (for example Mature Gouda from FrieslandCampina)
  • Blue cheese (like Roquefort or Stilton)
• Meats: Various types of meats such as:
  • Salami (for example Salami Milano from Bertolli)
  • Prosciutto (like Parma ham from Citterio)
• Vegetables: Freshly cut vegetables such as:
  • Cucumber
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Bell pepper
• Dips: A variety of dips that are perfect to combine with bread or vegetables:
  • Hummus (for example from Hummus from Maza)
  • Guacamole (like the brand Avocado from Guac)
• Nuts and Olives: A tasty addition to vary texture and taste:
  • Mixed nuts (for example Nut mix from Hema)
  • Kalamata olives
• Bread: Different types of bread, from baguettes to crackers:
  • Baguette (fresh from the bakery)
  • Crackers (like Nairn's Rice Crackers)

Why are Snack Boards Perfect for a Picnic?

Snack platters are ideal for a picnic for several reasons:

• Convenience: It is easy to put together a snack board and take it with you. In addition, the ingredients can be prepared in advance.
• Variety: There is something for everyone, making it ideal for groups with different tastes.
• Social Interaction: Sharing a drinks platter promotes interaction between guests and creates a cozy atmosphere.

Balance Between Flavors and Textures

When putting together a snack platter, it is important to find a balance between different flavors and textures. Here are some tips:

• Flavors: Provide a mix of savory, sweet, sour and umami. For example:
  • Add honey or fig jam as a sweet component.
  • Use a spicy cheese or sausage for an extra kick.
• Textures: Combine soft, creamy, crunchy and chewy elements. Examples include:
  • Soft cheeses (Brie) next to hard cheeses (Parmesan).
  • Crispy vegetables (carrots) with creamy dips (hummus).

Sample Drinking Board

Here's an example of how to put together a drinks platter:

With these guidelines and examples, you can easily put together a delicious and attractive snack platter that is perfect for any occasion, from a casual drink to a cozy picnic in the park.

The Perfect Ingredient Choice for your Snack Platter

A well-composed snack platter can be a feast for the senses. The choice of ingredients is crucial to the taste, presentation and overall experience. In this section, we will discuss the different elements you can use to create an irresistible snack platter.

Cheeses: The Basis of your Snack Platter

Cheeses are often the heart of a snack platter. It is important to choose different types of cheeses to offer a variety of flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions:

• Brie de Meaux: This creamy French cheese is perfect to pair with a sweet chutney, such as Patak's Tamarind Chutney.
• Gorgonzola: This blue cheese adds a bold flavor and pairs well with nuts, such as Holland & Barrett Pecans.
• Cheddar: Choose a vintage cheddar, such as Westmorland Red for a robust flavour. This goes well with sweet apples or pears.

Cold cuts: A Savory Touch

Cold cuts can add an extra dimension to your snack platter. Consider the following options:

• Prosciutto di Parma: This Italian ham is thinly sliced and very tasty. Combine it with melon for a fresh bite.
• Salami Milano: This mild salami is perfect for lovers of cold cuts and goes well with spicy mustard, such as Grainy Mustard by Maille.
• Chorizo: This Spanish sausage adds a smoky flavor. Try Bridas Iberian Chorizo for an authentic experience.

Vegetables: Color and Crispness

Add some color and crunch with fresh vegetables. Here are some ideas:

• Cherry tomatoes: These sweet tomatoes are perfect for dipping or just as a snack. Choose the Sweet 100 variety for extra sweetness.
• Cucumber: Slice these for a refreshing bite. Try English cucumbers; these are less bitter and have a thin skin.
• Bell pepper: Different colors of peppers make for a visually appealing presentation. The Sweet Mini Peppers from SweetPoint are an excellent choice.

Dips: Tasty Accents

Dips can enhance the flavors of your snack platter and are a must-have. Consider the following options:

• Hummus: Choose for Hummus from Houmous with different flavors, such as roasted pepper or garlic.
• Guacamole: Try Guacamole from Holy Guacamole, which is deliciously creamy and full of flavor.
• Tzatziki: This Greek dip is refreshing and perfect for veggies. Tzatziki from Olympos is a good choice.

Types of Bread: The Perfect Accompaniment

Bread can play an important role in complementing the flavors on your snack board. Consider the following options:

• Ciabatta: This Italian bread is light and perfect for dipping. Try Ciabatta from the Bakery.
• Baguette: A classic that pairs well with almost any ingredient. Choose a French Baguette from the Bakery.
• Crackers: Choose for Finn Crisp or Ritz Crackers for a crunchy addition.

Seasonal Ingredients

Using seasonal ingredients can take the flavor of your snack platter to the next level. In spring, you could think of asparagus or radishes. In fall, pumpkins and chestnuts are excellent choices.

Examples of Seasonal Ingredients:

• Spring: Asparagus, arugula, radish
• Summer: Zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes
• Autumn: Pumpkin, apple, pomegranate
• Winter: Brussels sprouts, celeriac, chicory

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

It is important to consider vegetarian and vegan guests as well. Here are some suggestions:

• Vegan cheeses: Try Violife or Miyoko's cashew cheese for a delicious cheese experience without animal products.
• Vegan dips: Hummus and guacamole are often already vegan, but you can also Tofutti Vegan Spinach Dip to offer.
• Vegetables: A colorful selection of raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and sliced peppers is always a hit.

By carefully choosing which ingredients to place on your snack board, you can create a visually appealing and tasteful experience for your guests. Don't forget to vary the flavors, textures and colors to ensure an unforgettable snack moment.

Presentation: Make it Visually Appealing

Creating an appealing snack platter depends not only on the ingredients you select, but also on how they are presented. A visually appealing presentation can stimulate the appetite and enhance the overall experience. In this section, we will discuss different boards and planks you can use, as well as tips for arranging ingredients and using decorative elements.

Choice of Boards and Planks

The foundation of a good presentation begins with the right backdrop. Here are some popular options:

• Wooden Planks: Wooden planks, such as those from IKEA (the “SÄLJEN” or “LÄMPLIG”), give a rustic look and are perfect for presenting cheese and sausage.
• Marble Plates: Marble plates, such as the HAY Marble Tray, add a luxurious look and are ideal for serving delicacies.
• Flat Plates: Simple, flat plates, such as the Royal Doulton “Gordon Ramsay” Series, are perfect for arranging smaller snacks such as olives and nuts.

Ingredients Attractive Arrange

Arranging ingredients plays a crucial role in presentation. Here are some tips to make your snack platter attractive:

• Color Scheme: Choose ingredients with different colors to create visual contrasts. Think bright tomatoes, green herbs, and yellow cheese.
• Group: Group similar items together. For example, place all the cheeses on one side and the charcuterie on the other.
• Elevation: Use small bowls or raised shelves to create height differences. This gives depth to your presentation.

Decorative Elements

Decorative elements can take a snack board to the next level. Consider adding:

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, rosemary or mint can not only add flavor but also serve as decoration. Place sprigs among the appetizers for a lively look.
• Flowers: Edible flowers, such as violets or African marigolds, can provide a beautiful splash of color. Make sure they are safe to eat.
• Special Tableware: Use unique tableware pieces, such as the Anthropologie “Reactive Glaze” Dishes, to give an artisanal feel. These pieces are not only functional, but also serve as decor.

Example of an Attractive Snack Board

Below is an example of how you can put together an attractive drinks platter:

By paying attention to both the choice of materials and the presentation of the ingredients, you can create a snack platter that not only tastes delicious, but is also a feast for the eyes.

The Perfect Mix for an Unforgettable Picnic

In conclusion, creating an irresistible picnic platter requires attention to both ingredients and presentation. Be creative with your choices and play on the flavors and textures that appeal to you and your guests. Additionally, choose a beautiful location to embrace this culinary experience and make sure you prepare everything well in advance for a carefree and enjoyable picnic. With these tips, you can create a platter that will tempt everyone and contribute to a memorable day outdoors.