Save A whimsical and impressive appetizer platter arranged in the shape of a horse featuring a variety of cheeses charcuterie fruits nuts and accompaniments—perfect for parties or themed celebrations.
I love creating this grazing board for my gatherings because it sparks conversation and everyone enjoys picking their favorite bites.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 100 g aged cheddar cubed 100 g brie sliced 100 g gouda cubed 100 g blue cheese crumbled
- Charcuterie (omit for vegetarian option): 100 g prosciutto thinly sliced 100 g salami sliced 100 g smoked turkey sliced
- Fresh Fruits: 1 cup red grapes halved 1 cup green grapes halved 1 apple thinly sliced 1 pear thinly sliced 1/2 cup dried apricots
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved 1 cup cucumber sliced 1/2 cup baby carrots
- Crackers & Bread: 2 cups assorted crackers 1 baguette sliced
- Nuts & Extras: 1/2 cup roasted almonds 1/2 cup walnuts 1/4 cup olives (black or green) 1/4 cup cornichons or small pickles 1/4 cup honey or fig jam
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large clean board or tray sketch or outline the shape of a horse using parchment paper or use a horse-shaped template as a guide.
- Step 2:
- Begin by arranging the cheeses to define the horses head mane and body varying colors and shapes for visual interest.
- Step 3:
- Layer charcuterie slices to form contours and add texture such as the mane or legs.
- Step 4:
- Fill in with fruits and vegetables using grape clusters and sliced apples for curves and accents.
- Step 5:
- Place crackers and baguette slices along the border or as the horses ground.
- Step 6:
- Scatter nuts olives and pickles in small groupings to add detail and fill gaps.
- Step 7:
- Use a small dish of honey or fig jam as an eye or to accent the board.
- Step 8:
- Adjust and refine the arrangement for a clear horse shape ensuring even distribution of colors and textures.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately providing cheese knives and serving utensils.
Save My family enjoys assembling this board together it brings us closer as we create art that is also delicious.
Customization Ideas
Try adding different cheeses or seasonal fruits to keep the board fresh and exciting at every event.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white such as Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors.
Storage Tips
Prepare components ahead and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and presentation.
Save This grazing board is sure to wow your guests and make your event memorable with minimal effort.
Recipe Help
- → How do I create the horse shape on the board?
Use parchment paper to sketch the horse outline or a template as a guide, then arrange cheeses and other items following the shape for clarity.
- → Can I make this without meat?
Yes, simply omit charcuterie and add more cheeses, roasted vegetables, or marinated tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- → What cheeses work best for this board?
Aged cheddar, brie, gouda, and blue cheese offer varied textures and colors to create visual interest and flavor contrast.
- → How should I arrange fruits and nuts?
Place grape clusters, sliced apples, and dried apricots to form curves and accents; scatter nuts and olives in small groups to fill gaps and add texture.
- → What beverages pair well with this platter?
Light reds like Pinot Noir or crisp whites such as Sauvignon Blanc complement the diverse flavors and textures nicely.
- → Are there any allergen considerations?
The board contains dairy, tree nuts, gluten from crackers and bread, and possible sulfites or eggs. Adjust ingredients as needed for allergies.