Save to Pinterest 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 grazing board was a hit at our last gathering with guests marveling at the horse shape and variety of 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
Save to Pinterest This board always brings my family together it sparks conversation and everyone enjoys picking their favorites from the horse shape
Serving Suggestions
Pair this platter with light reds like Pinot Noir or crisp whites such as Sauvignon Blanc for the perfect drink accompaniment
Storage Tips
Keep all components covered and refrigerated if not serving immediately to maintain freshness especially cheeses and meats
Allergen Information
Contains dairy tree nuts gluten (from bread and crackers) possible sulfites in dried fruits and cured meats and possible egg in some crackers
Save to Pinterest This horse shaped grazing board is a memorable centerpiece sure to impress and delight guests at any occasion
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I create the horse shape on the board?
Begin by sketching the horse outline on parchment or use a template. Place cheeses and charcuterie to shape the head, mane, and body, filling in details with fruits and nuts for definition.
- → Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, simply omit charcuterie and increase cheese varieties, roasted vegetables, or marinated tofu to maintain texture and flavor balance.
- → What cheeses work best for this arrangement?
Use a mix of aged cheddar, brie, gouda, and blue cheese for varied colors, textures, and tastes that enhance the visual and flavor profile.
- → How should I serve this platter?
Serve immediately with cheese knives and utensils on a large tray or board, ensuring easy access for guests to sample the different components.
- → Are there recommended drink pairings?
Light reds like Pinot Noir or crisp whites such as Sauvignon Blanc complement the mix of cheeses, meats, and fruits beautifully.