Save 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 board has become my go-to for spring parties everyone admires the colorful and fresh presentation.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 16–20 spears) trimmed, 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for blanching)
- Fruits: 1 cup strawberries hulled and halved, 1 cup seedless grapes (red and/or green), 1 cup blueberries, 1 orange peeled and segmented, 1 cup pineapple cut into bite-size pieces, 1 kiwi peeled and sliced, 1 apple sliced, 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
- Cheese & Extras (optional): 1/2 cup goat cheese or feta crumbled, 1/4 cup roasted nuts (e.g. almonds pistachios or walnuts), Honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling
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 Cheese and Nuts:
- 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 My family loves gathering around this platter it sparks conversation and everyone enjoys the fresh flavors together.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, sharp knife, small bowls for dips (optional), tongs or skewers for serving.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if cheese is included and tree nuts if nuts are added. Always check labels for hidden allergens in cheese or glaze products. This recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian.
Nutritional Information
Per serving without cheese or nuts: 95 calories, 1 g total fat, 22 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein.
Save This asparagus stem floral board is a fresh and elegant appetizer sure to impress your guests every time.
Cooking Guide
- → How should I prepare the asparagus for the platter?
Trim the asparagus stems and blanch them briefly in salted boiling water for 1–2 minutes to enhance color and tenderness, then cool in ice water before arranging.
- → Can I customize the fruit selection?
Absolutely. Feel free to use your favorite seasonal fruits or substitute depending on availability and taste preferences.
- → What optional toppings work well with this board?
Crumbled goat cheese or feta, roasted nuts like almonds or pistachios, and a light drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze add extra flavor and texture.
- → Is blanching the asparagus necessary?
Blanching is optional but helps brighten the asparagus color and soften the texture slightly for a more tender bite.
- → How can I enhance the presentation further?
Adding edible flowers, fresh mint leaves, or serving with a yogurt-based dip or whipped ricotta can elevate the visual appeal and flavor profile.