An Italian drinks board is the perfect way to add a touch of the dolce vita to add to your drinks evening. From a range of delicious meats and delicious cheeses to fresh vegetables, nuts and fruit, an Italian drinks platter offers an authentic taste experience. In this blog we dive into the essential ingredients that should not be missing on your Italian drinks platter. I also give you tips on how to put together and present the platter.

A drinks platter, also known as a snack platter in Italian to bake called, is not only popular as an aperitif, but also as a versatile starter or even main course. Italian cuisine is known for simplicity, quality and seasonal ingredients. The combination of meats, cheeses, fresh fruit and other snacks makes an Italian snack platter a festive experience that you can easily adapt to your own taste and preferences.
the basis of an Italian snack platter

Cured meats (meats)

The choice of meats is large, and you can combine different types for a balanced taste experience. Some classic options are:

• Prosciutto di Parma: One of the most iconic Italian ham varieties, known for its mild, salty flavour.
• Salami: For example, choose spicy Calabrian or the milder Finocchiona with fennel seeds.
• Mortadella: This Bologna specialty is a mild, creamy cold cut with a subtle flavor.
• Bresaola: A lesser known, but delicious air-dried beef variety from Lombardy.

Provide variation in texture and flavor. For example, combine the soft, tender prosciutto with the firm and spicy salami for a perfect balance

Cheeses

The cheeses on an Italian platter are just as important as the meats. Here are some classics to consider:

• Pecorino Romano: A firm, salty sheep's cheese that is often served grated, but is also delicious cut into cubes.
• Gorgonzola: This blue cheese adds a spicy flavor to your platter and pairs well with sweet fruit or honey.
• Buffalo mozzarella: This creamy cheese from Campania is ideal in combination with tomatoes and basil, for example as a Caprese salad.
• Taleggio: A soft, slightly spicy cheese that goes perfectly with toasted bread.

Bread and crackers

Italy is known for its simple yet tasty breads. Some popular choices include:

• CiabattaThis airy bread can be grilled and drizzled with olive oil.
• Grissini: These crispy breadsticks are a light addition that pairs well with heavier meats and cheeses.
• Crostini: Toasted slices of bread, which form a solid base for toppings such as pesto, olives or tomato

Olives and antipasti

No Italian snack platter is complete without olives and a selection of antipasto. Consider the following:

• Castelvetrano olives: Soft and buttery in taste.
• Marinated artichokes: Add these for a fresh, salty taste. They are delicious marinated in olive oil and herbs.
• Roasted peppers: These sweet, slightly smoky peppers add a colorful touch to your plank.
• Sun dried tomatoes: Their sweet and intense flavour goes perfectly with both cheeses and meats.

Fresh fruit and nuts

Fruit and nuts add not only color but also sweetness and crunch to your snack platter. Classic options include:

Almonds or walnuts: These nuts provide a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter flavor that balances well with the rest of the plank.
Grapes: These are fresh and juicy, and make a nice complement to the salty cheeses.
Figs: Both fresh and dried, they are deliciously sweet and go well with cheeses such as gorgonzola.

How do you put together the perfect Italian snack platter?

Now that you know what ingredients to use, it's time to put the plank together. Here are some tips:

1. Start with the big elements: Place the cheeses and meats in strategic places on the shelf, leaving room for the smaller items.
2. Use small bowls: For olives, honey or pesto you can use small bowls to keep the board tidy.
3. Provide variety in textures and colors: By combining different textures and colours you make the shelf visually attractive.
4. Leave room for improvisation: Your guests can create their own perfect snack by topping bread with their favorite combinations.

Wine suggestions for the drinks platter

The right wine can enhance the flavors on your Italian appetizer platter. Here are some recommendations:

• Prosecco: This sparkling white wine is light and refreshing, and pairs well with both salty and creamy elements.
• Chianti: A dry red wine from Tuscany, which combines perfectly with cold cuts such as salami and prosciutto.
• Pinot Grigio: This white wine is fresh and fruity, and provides a nice contrast to the richness of the cheeses.

Conclusion

Creating an Italian snack platter is an art that revolves around the balance of taste, texture and presentation. By choosing authentic Italian ingredients such as prosciutto, pecorino and olives, you create a culinary experience that is both simple and refined. Remember that presentation is just as important as taste: a well-filled, colourful platter will attract attention and ensure that everyone can enjoy a delicious Italian-style snack evening.

Happy eating!