A regal, safari-themed platter with meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts arranged for visual appeal and rich flavors.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Meats
01 - 3.5 oz sliced roast beef
02 - 3.5 oz sliced smoked turkey
03 - 3.5 oz sliced salami
04 - 3.5 oz biltong or beef jerky (optional)
→ Cheeses
05 - 3.5 oz aged cheddar, cubed
06 - 3.5 oz gouda, cubed
07 - 3.5 oz mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
→ Fruits & Garnishes
08 - 1 mango, sliced
09 - 1 cup seedless red grapes
10 - 1 cup pineapple chunks
11 - 1/2 cup dried apricots
→ Crackers & Nuts
12 - 1 cup assorted gluten-free crackers
13 - 1/2 cup roasted cashews
14 - 1/2 cup roasted almonds
→ Decorative Elements
15 - Fresh basil or mint leaves, for garnish
16 - Edible flowers (optional)
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - On a large serving platter or wooden board, arrange the sliced meats in a semi-circle or mane shape to evoke a lion’s mane.
02 - Position cubed cheddar and gouda cheeses centrally to form the lion’s face.
03 - Use mozzarella balls to shape the lion’s snout and eyes; place a grape or olive to represent the nose.
04 - Arrange sliced mango, pineapple chunks, dried apricots, and grapes around the meat for visual contrast.
05 - Distribute gluten-free crackers and roasted nuts in empty spaces to maintain balance and texture variety.
06 - Garnish with fresh basil or mint leaves and optional edible flowers to enhance the jungle-inspired presentation.
07 - Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
