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 remember serving this to guests who were delighted by the unique horse shape and the assortment of delicious bites it offered
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 This board always brings family and friends together sparking conversations and compliments at every gathering
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
Save This horse-shaped grazing board is sure to impress guests and elevate your entertaining game
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I shape the board like a horse?
Use parchment paper to sketch the horse outline or a template on your board. Arrange the ingredients according to this guide, starting with cheeses to form the main shape.
- → Can I customize the ingredient selection?
Yes, swap cheeses, meats, or fruits based on preference or dietary needs. Seasonal produce and different nuts can add unique flavors and colors.
- → What vegetarian options are available?
Omit charcuterie and add more varieties of cheese, roasted vegetables, or marinated tofu for a vegetarian-friendly board.
- → How to prevent fruits and vegetables from wilting?
Use fresh, firm produce and add them just before serving. Keeping items chilled until plating maintains their texture and appearance.
- → What accompaniments work well with this board?
Crackers, sliced baguette, honey, and fig jam complement the flavors and add variety to textures on the board.