Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This DIY deli tray is perfect for anyone looking for a simple appetizer that looks impressive and offers a variety of flavors. The best part is that you can make it ahead of time, saving you stress and time when your guests arrive. It’s customizable to fit your taste and dietary preferences, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the deli meats and cheeses can be purchased in advance, ensuring a hassle-free prep!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Assorted cheeses (Babybel cheese, white cheddar)
- Assorted deli meats (Hungarian or German summer sausage, sliced turkey breast, kielbasa)
- Crackers or bread
- Optional extras: olives, pickles, fresh herbs
Directions
- Begin by preparing a large serving platter for your deli tray.
- Prepare the Deli Meats:
- Fold the Hungarian sausage in half, then in quarters, and loosely stack them around the perimeter of the tray.
- Roll the sliced turkey breast lengthwise, then fold it in half and arrange it around the inside edge of the Hungarian sausage.
- Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch rounds, cutting each piece in half, and place them around the tray near the turkey breast.
- Prepare the Cheese:
- Cut the white cheddar cheese into ½-inch cubes and place them in the center of the tray.
- Place Babybel cheese rounds around the edge of the platter for easy access.
- Add crackers or slices of bread to fill in any empty spaces on the tray.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs, olives, or pickles for additional flavor.
Servings and Timing
This deli tray serves about 8-10 people. Assembling the tray takes about 15-20 minutes, and it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Variations
- Add More Cheeses: Include additional varieties such as brie, gouda, or goat cheese for a more diverse selection.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace deli meats with roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Spicy Twist: Add spicy sausages or hot mustard for guests who enjoy a little heat.
Storage/Reheating
Since this is a cold platter, there’s no need for reheating. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.
FAQs
Can I make this tray ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the deli tray a few hours in advance, keeping it covered in plastic wrap or beeswax wrap in the refrigerator.
How do I keep the cheese fresh?
Store cheese in a cool area or in the fridge before serving. Adding them just before serving ensures they stay fresh.
What’s a good cracker option for this tray?
Any type of crackers works well, but options like water crackers, buttery crackers, or whole-grain crackers complement the meats and cheeses.
How can I make the deli tray more colorful?
Add fruits such as grapes, figs, or berries for a pop of color, or incorporate fresh herbs and edible flowers as garnishes.
Conclusion
A DIY deli tray is the ideal solution for a no-fuss, flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests. With a variety of cheeses, deli meats, and crackers, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be put together in minutes. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to create the perfect platter for your next gathering. So next time you’re hosting, skip the cooking and assemble this easy yet delicious tray for an appetizer that’s sure to be the star of the show!
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Deli Tray Charcuterie Board
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Looking for an easy yet impressive appetizer for your next gathering? A DIY deli tray is the perfect solution! Packed with an assortment of cheeses, deli meats, crackers, and optional extras like olives and pickles, it’s a customizable and hassle-free way to please your guests. Quick to assemble and perfect for making ahead of time, this appetizer is a crowd-pleaser at any party or family gathering.
Ingredients
Assorted cheeses (Babybel cheese, white cheddar)
Assorted deli meats (Hungarian or German summer sausage, sliced turkey breast, kielbasa)
Crackers or bread
Optional extras: olives, pickles, fresh herbs
Instructions
-
Prepare a large serving platter for your deli tray.
-
Prepare the Deli Meats:
-
Fold the Hungarian sausage in half, then in quarters, stacking them around the perimeter of the tray.
-
Roll the sliced turkey breast lengthwise, fold it in half, and arrange it near the Hungarian sausage.
-
Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch rounds, cutting each piece in half, and place them near the turkey.
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Prepare the Cheese:
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Cut the white cheddar into ½-inch cubes and place them in the center of the platter.
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Arrange Babybel cheese rounds around the edge for easy access.
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Add crackers or slices of bread to fill any gaps.
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Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs, olives, or pickles for extra flavor.
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Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Make the deli tray ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Add fruits such as grapes or figs for color and sweetness.
Customize the meats and cheeses to suit your preferences.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Party Food, Quick Recipes
- Method: No-cook, Assembly
- Cuisine: American, European
