Save to Pinterest A vibrant and artful fruit and vegetable platter featuring tender asparagus stems arranged like a blossoming tree, surrounded by fresh seasonal fruits. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a stunning appetizer centerpiece.
This platter never fails to impress guests at our spring gatherings with its fresh flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
- Fresh asparagus: 1 bunch (about 16–20 spears), trimmed
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (optional, for blanching)
- Strawberries: 1 cup, hulled and halved
- Seedless grapes: 1 cup (red and/or green)
- Blueberries: 1 cup
- Orange: 1, peeled and segmented
- Pineapple: 1 cup, cut into bite-size pieces
- Kiwi: 1, peeled and sliced
- Apple: 1, sliced
- Pomegranate seeds: 1/2 cup (optional)
- Goat cheese or feta: 1/2 cup, crumbled (optional)
- Roasted nuts: 1/4 cup (e.g., almonds, pistachios, or walnuts) (optional)
- Honey or balsamic glaze: for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Blanch asparagus:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook for 1–2 minutes until bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Pat dry.
- Arrange asparagus:
- On a large serving board, arrange the asparagus stems in the shape of a tree trunk and branches, fanning them out to resemble a blossoming tree.
- Arrange fruit:
- Artistically arrange the fruit pieces around and above the asparagus branches to mimic flowers and foliage. Use a variety of colors and shapes for a vibrant look.
- Add extras:
- If using, sprinkle cheese and nuts over the fruit and asparagus. Drizzle lightly with honey or balsamic glaze.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, providing small tongs or skewers for easy serving.
Save to Pinterest This platter brings family and friends together, inspiring joyful conversations around a vibrant and healthy snack.
Notes
For extra flair, add edible flowers or fresh mint leaves. Serve with a side of yogurt dip or whipped ricotta for dipping.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, sharp knife, small bowls for dips (optional), and tongs or skewers for serving.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if cheese is included and tree nuts if nuts are included. This board is gluten-free and vegetarian. Always check labels for hidden allergens in cheese or glaze products.
Save to Pinterest This easy-to-create board adds a fresh and elegant touch to any gathering.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How should I prepare the asparagus for the board?
Trim the asparagus stems and optionally blanch them in salted boiling water for 1-2 minutes to keep them tender and vibrant green, then plunge into ice water to stop cooking.
- → Which fruits work best for a colorful arrangement?
A combination of strawberries, grapes, blueberries, citrus segments, pineapple, kiwi, apple slices, and pomegranate seeds offers a vibrant mix of colors and textures.
- → Can I add cheese and nuts to this platter?
Yes, crumbled goat cheese or feta and roasted nuts like almonds or pistachios add richness and crunch that complement the fresh fruits and vegetables.
- → What serving tools are recommended?
Use a large serving board or platter along with small tongs or skewers to allow easy, elegant serving of the pieces.
- → Are there any tips for customizing this platter?
Feel free to add edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for extra flair, and swap seasonal fruits according to availability and preference.