Did you know that research shows that 70% of guests remember what they ate at an event better than the conversations they had? This emphasizes the importance of a well-composed snack platter at your corporate event. In this blog post, we will take you into the world of culinary indulgence and share essential tips and creative ideas to create a snack platter that not only tickles the taste buds, but also elevates the atmosphere of your event to a higher level. Whether you are hosting a formal gathering or a casual get-together, our guide will ensure that your guests have an unforgettable experience. Let’s get started!
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is an attractive dish that is often served at social gatherings, such as drinks, parties or informal dinners. It is an ideal way to present a variety of snacks that guests can share. The composition of a snack platter can vary depending on personal preferences and seasonal ingredients, but there are some classic components that often return.
Elements of a Snack Board
A well-composed snack board usually contains a variety of flavors and textures. Here are the main elements that can be included in a snack board:
Cheese
Cheese is an important part of any snack platter. The selection can range from soft to hard cheeses. Some popular choices are:
- Brie: A soft, creamy cheese that pairs well with fruits such as grapes or figs.
- Gouda: A mild cheese that comes in different stages of maturation. Oude Gouda has a stronger flavour and a crystalline structure.
- Parmesan cheese: A hard cheese often served in small pieces or flakes. Perfect with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
Meats
Cold cuts add a savoury dimension to the snack platter. Here are some recommendations:
- Prosciutto: Thin slices of dried ham that offer a salty, umami flavor.
- Salami: A popular choice, with different variations such as mild or spicy salami.
- Chorizo: A Spanish sausage that often has a smoky and spicy flavor.
Vegetables
Fresh vegetables add color and crunch to the snack board. Consider the following options:
- Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they are a great addition.
- Cucumber: Refreshing and crunchy, ideal to combine with dips.
- Bell pepper: In different colours for a visually attractive presentation.
Dips and Sauces
Dips are essential for a snack platter. They add extra flavor and make eating even more fun. Some popular dips are:
- Hummus: A creamy dip made from chickpeas, perfect for vegetables and crackers.
- Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that goes great with tortilla chips.
- Tzatziki: A fresh yoghurt dip with cucumber, ideal for a Mediterranean touch.
Presentation of the Borrelplank
The presentation of the snack board is crucial. Here are some tips to make it look appealing:
- Variation in Height: Use different heights by, for example, combining a wooden cutting board and a smaller bowl.
- Colorful Components: Make sure there is a good mix of colors on the shelf. This makes it visually appealing.
- Spiced Nuts: Add a bowl of salted or spiced nuts for an extra crunch.
Examples of Popular Snack Board Combinations
| Component | Example | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese | Old Amsterdam Gouda | Strong, rich flavour |
| Meats | Spanish Chorizo | Smoky and spicy |
| Vegetables | Carrot and celery sticks | Perfect for dips |
| Dips | Alpro Hummus and Guacamole | Vegan options available |
With these elements and tips, you can create a delicious and inviting snack platter that is guaranteed to be appreciated by your guests. Whether it is for a cozy get-together with friends or a formal occasion, a well-composed snack platter ensures an unforgettable culinary experience.
The Right Balance of Snacks
A well-composed snack platter can enhance the atmosphere of any gathering and it is essential to pay attention to the variety and balance of the snacks. In this section we will discuss in detail how to create a perfect snack platter that is not only tasty but also meets the wishes of all your guests.
Importance of Variation
Variety on your snack platter is crucial for a successful experience. By offering different flavors and textures, you keep it interesting for your guests. Consider the following elements:
- Flavor profiles: Combine salty, sweet, sour and umami flavors.
- Textures: Provide a mix of crunchy, creamy and soft snacks.
- Colour: A colorful presentation makes the drinks platter visually attractive.
Practical examples of snacks:
- Salty snacks: Olives from Kalamata and salted almonds from Piedmontese.
- Sweet snacks: Honey-hazelnut spread from Dulce de Castañas on toast.
- Creamy snacks: Letter from Fromagerie de Paris with fig jam.
- Crispy snacks: Tortilla chips from Casa Fiesta with guacamole.
Balance with Dietary Needs and Allergies
It is very important to take into account the dietary requirements and allergies of your guests. This is not only out of courtesy, but also to ensure that everyone can enjoy the snack platter. Here are some tips:
- Vegan options: Add hummus from Maya Kaimal and raw vegetables.
- Gluten Free Choices: Choose rice cakes from Lundberg instead of crackers.
- Nut-free snacks: Provide a selection of cold cuts such as chorizo from Mildessa, and cheese such as goat cheese from Chavroux.
Example of a snack list based on dietary requirements:
| Snack | Dietary requirement | Brand/Product |
|---|---|---|
| Olives | Vegan | Kalamata |
| Hummus | Vegan, Gluten Free | Maya Kaimal |
| Chorizo | Non-vegetarian | Mildessa |
| Goat Cheese | Lactose free | Chavroux |
| Rice waffles | Gluten Free | Lundberg |
Ideal Amount of Snacks per Person
A common question is: how many snacks should you offer per person? It depends on the occasion, but here are some guidelines:
- During a drink of 1-2 hours: 6-8 snacks per person.
- At a drink of 2-4 hours: 10-12 snacks per person.
- At a dinner that starts with a drink: 4-6 snacks per person.
Example of snack distribution:
- 1-2 hours:
- 2 types of cheese (for example Old Amsterdam and Brie de Meaux)
- 2 types of sausage (for example Salami and Chorizo)
- 1 dip (such as Guacamole from Wholly Guacamole)
- 1 type of nuts (for example Piedmontese Almonds)
By following these guidelines and tips, you will create a snack platter that is not only versatile, but also a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Make sure your guests can enjoy a varied selection that meets their needs.
The Importance of Presentation at the Borrelplank
A snack platter is not just a collection of snacks; it is an experience that starts with the presentation. The way you style the platter can significantly enhance your guests' dining experience. An attractively presented snack platter invites tasting and can even intensify the taste experience.
Multiple Scales and Plates
Using different bowls and plates is an effective way to create a dynamic visual effect. Consider the following options:
- Wooden Plank: A rustic wooden plank, such as the Küchenprofi Wooden Cutting Board, adds a natural look. This type of board is perfect for presenting cheeses and charcuterie.
- Ceramic Bowls: use a mix of ceramic bowls, such as the IKEA FARLOV series, for dips and olives. The glossy finish of ceramic can create a contrast with the wood structure of the board.
- Glass Plates: For an elegant touch, you can opt for glass plates, such as the Luminarc Glass Serving Platters. These are ideal for serving fruit and desserts.
Garnishes for Extra Taste and Appearance
Garnishes are not only functional, but also decorative. Here are some ideas:
- Herbs: Fresh sprigs of rosemary or mint can be a nice addition. They are not only decorative, but also add a fresh scent and flavor.
- Nuts and Seeds: Use small bowls for nuts, such as the Sunsweet Dried Apricots, to add texture and color.
- Olives and Pickles: A mix of olives and pickles in a colorful bowl can make an attractive contrast to the other appetizers.
Use of Color and Inviting Appearance
Color plays a crucial role in the presentation of your snack board. Using a palette of complementary colors can enhance its appeal. Here are some tips:
- Colorful Ingredients: Choose seasonal fruits and vegetables. Think deep red beets, bright orange carrots and green hues of avocados.
- Edible Flowers: Consider edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums. These can not only add color, but also a touch of elegance.
- Contrast and Balance: Make sure there is a balance between light and dark shades. This can be done by combining light cheeses with dark olives or using a dark colored board.
Practical Examples of Styling
Here are some practical examples of how to style your drinks board:
- The Luxury Snack Board: Use a large wooden board and fill it with different types of cheeses, such as Old Amsterdam and Brie de Meaux, combined with nuts, dried fruit and a few bowls of dips, such as hummus from Hummus Bros.
- The Mediterranean Shelf: Use a mix of olives, feta, chorizo, and pita bread. Present all of this on a ceramic dish of Le Creuset for a stylish effect.
- The Sweet Plank: For a sweet snack platter you can choose from different types of chocolate, macarons from Ladurée, and fresh fruits such as strawberries and blueberries, presented on an elegant glass bowl.
Conclusion: Make your drinks platter an undeniable success!
In conclusion, a well-designed snack platter is essential to the success of your corporate event. Not only does it provide a tasty variety of snacks, it also promotes social interaction among your guests. Don’t forget to consider key components such as the choice of flavors, textures, and presentation. You are encouraged to be creative and add your own personal touch so that your snack platter not only looks festive, but also provides a unique experience that your guests will appreciate. With these guidelines in mind, you will be well on your way to an unforgettable event.
