Whether it is an informal gathering with friends, a festive occasion or a cosy evening at home, a drinks board is always a hit. Putting together a tempting and varied, and in short the perfect, drinks board is an art in itself, and the result is a colourful feast for the taste buds. Let’s take a look at how to put together the perfect appetiser board that steals the show and impresses your guests.
Basics
A good drinks board has a balanced mix of flavours, textures and colours. Start with a sturdy base such as a wooden cutting board or a flat tray. Then choose a variety of ingredients to combine: cheeses, meats, crackers, breads, fruits, nuts and dips.
Cheeses
Go for a mix of soft, tangy and hard cheeses to offer diverse flavours. Think brie, goat cheese, blue cheese, young cheese and maybe an aged cheddar. Also add a cheese with a special twist, such as a truffle cheese or a cheese with cranberry.
Meats
Select an assortment of charcuterie such as salami, prosciutto, chorizo or coppa to enhance the savoury elements. Roll the slices of charcuterie for a beautiful presentation and easy consumption.
Fresh bread and crackers
Add a mix of fresh bread, baguettes or crackers. Variation in flavour, such as rosemary or seeds, adds an extra dimension to the board. You can toast them if necessary for a crunchy texture.
Fruit and nuts
Fruit adds a refreshing element. Grapes, apple slices, figs or dried apricots are great choices. Nuts such as almonds, walnuts or pecans offer a crunchy, savoury flavour.
Dips en spreads
A few spoonfuls of your favourite dips and spreads such as hummus, tapenade, chutney or honey add an extra dimension to the board. They pair wonderfully with cheeses and cold cuts.
Presentation is important
Arrange items attractively on the shelf. Vary heights and textures by using small bowls for dips and nuts, for example. Leave space so it doesn’t look too crowded and guests can easily grab what they want.
Creativity and adaptation
The great thing about a drinks board is the freedom to be creative. Feel free to add other items that suit your taste or the season, such as olives, roasted vegetables or homemade spreads.
The perfect appetiser board offers not only delicious flavours but also an informal atmosphere where guests can enjoy a varied selection of appetisers. Experiment with flavours and textures to create a unique drinks board perfect for any occasion. Whether it is an intimate evening or a large party, a well-crafted drinks board will always steal the show and delight guests with its delicious diversity. So be sure to pop into our shops to buy all your ingredients at a competitive price!