Pin it 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
This board always amazes guests with its unique shape and delicious flavors
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
Pin it Our family loves gathering around this board it sparks conversation and enjoyment for all ages
Required Tools
Large serving board or tray paring knife cheese knives small bowls or ramekins cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy Tree Nuts Gluten (from bread crackers) possible Sulfites (in dried fruits cured meats) possible Egg (in some crackers) For allergies or intolerances substitute as needed and always check product labels
Nutritional Information
Calories 340 Total Fat 19 g Carbohydrates 26 g Protein 14 g per serving
Pin it Enjoy creating this unique horseshaped board that impresses every guest
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make the board vegetarian-friendly?
Simply omit the charcuterie and add extra cheeses, roasted vegetables, or marinated tofu for protein and variety.
- → What cheeses work best for this grazing board?
Aged cheddar, brie, gouda, and blue cheese provide a range of textures and flavors that complement fruits and nuts beautifully.
- → How do I maintain the horse shape while assembling?
Use parchment paper or a template to outline the shape on your board, then arrange ingredients following the contours for clear definition.
- → What fruits enhance the overall flavor profile?
Fresh grapes, sliced apples, pears, and dried apricots add sweetness and contrast to the savory components.
- → Are there any recommended wines to accompany this platter?
A light red such as Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc pairs excellently with the diverse flavors.
- → Can I prepare this board in advance?
It’s best assembled shortly before serving to preserve freshness and maintain the visual appeal.