Save A vibrant elegant appetizer tray inspired by natures 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 is always a hit at gatherings and the presentation impresses everyone each time
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
Save Making this tray brings the family together especially during celebrations when everyone enjoys the colorful spread
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
Save This appetizer tray is both beautiful and delicious making it the perfect start to any party
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How should the vegetables be prepared for the tray?
Wash and dry all fresh vegetables thoroughly. Slice or halve them as needed to create visually appealing lines and contrasts that resemble dragonfly wings.
- → Can the cured meats be omitted for a vegetarian option?
Yes, simply remove the cured meats and replace them with marinated artichoke hearts or olives to maintain texture and flavor balance.
- → What types of cheeses are recommended for the tray?
Soft and semi-hard cheeses like goat cheese rounds, cheddar cubes, and brie wedges create a varied and creamy profile.
- → How should the dips be presented?
Spoon the dips such as hummus, tzatziki, and fig jam into small bowls and place them decoratively around the tray for easy access and enhanced visual appeal.
- → Are there suggestions for pairing beverages?
Pair this tray with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water infused with cucumber slices for a refreshing complement.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Fresh basil leaves, edible flowers like nasturtium or pansy, and roasted pistachios add color, texture, and elegance to the platter.