Easy Thanksgiving Board Appetizer
Need to bring something for Thanksgiving dinner but don’t enjoy cooking? Build an easy appetizer board for everyone to enjoy while waiting for the main meal.
Building a beautiful appetizer board doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. Here are a five tips for creating an appetizer board that fits your budget and taste-buds.
#1) Shop Smart
The price of groceries is increasing, putting a strain on many budgets especially during the holidays. The grocery store that you shop at does make a difference, especially when it comes to selecting items for an appetizer board. Stores like Aldi and Lidl offer a fantastic variety as well as budget-friendly prices, but even the Dollar Stores provide options like crackers, pretzels, cheeses and nuts. Think of the stores that offer the oldest array of items for the best prices in your area, and use that as the primary source for shopping. Fill in the gaps with fresh produce from another location.
#2) There are No Rules
There are no rules when it comes to creating an appetizer board, which lends itself to a lot of creativity and allows you to build something that fits the preferences of your family and friends. Love pretzels? Add a few different kinds of pretzels with mustards for dipping. Enjoy dips? Consider making or buying a few different options and pairing with vegetables, chips or crackers. Love cheese but hate meats, just add cheese with fruits and vegetables. You get my point— make it something you love.
#3) Fill in the Gaps
I like filling in the “gaps” or empty space on a board with sliced vegetables like carrots, celery and colorful peppers, along with seasonal fruits like apples and pears. I can find these items at most grocery stores, and I can pair them with more expensive items like a nice cheese or cured meats. If you don’t have access to fresh produce, or it doesn’t fit in your budget, consider using a variety of crackers, pretzels or even colorful root vegetable chips to fill your board’s gaps.
#4) Mix & Match
Mix and match refrigerated items like produce, dips, cheese with pantry items like crackers, stone-ground mustard, jams, and seasoned nuts/seeds. Variety ensures that everyone in your gathering can find something that fits their preferences and also creates a much more interesting appetizer board.
#5) Garnish
Garnishes can elevate a board and make it look “fancy” even when you didn’t put a whole lot of effort into assembling it. Tuck in some fresh herbs like rosemary between the crackers or cheeses or add a few berries, pomegranate or orange slices. Use what you have available and get creative.
Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!