Pin it A vibrant, elegant appetizer tray inspired by nature&s 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
I first created this appetizer tray for a summer garden party and it was an instant hit with everyone, bringing both beauty and taste to the table
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
Pin it This appetizer tray always brings smiles and sparks conversations at family gatherings, making every event special
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
Nutritional Information
Per serving with meats and cheese: Calories 260, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 18 g, Protein 10 g
Pin it This elegant appetizer tray combines ease and impressive presentation to delight your guests every time
Common Questions
- → How should I arrange the vegetables on the platter?
Arrange vegetables in sweeping lines to resemble dragonfly wings, using contrasting colors for visual appeal.
- → Can I make this tray vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, simply omit the cured meats and add marinated artichoke hearts or olives for added flavor.
- → What dips pair well with this appetizer arrangement?
Hummus, tzatziki, and fig jam complement the cheeses and vegetables beautifully in this setup.
- → Are there any suggestions for garnishes?
Fresh basil leaves, edible flowers like nasturtium or pansy, and roasted pistachios add a natural, elegant touch.
- → How long can the platter be stored before serving?
It can be assembled ahead and refrigerated, but serving immediately ensures freshness and optimal presentation.