Description
Polished Pebble Oval Cheeses is an elegant, no-cook appetizer featuring assorted oval-shaped mini cheeses and roasted almonds arranged artfully to resemble a stream-bed of pebbles. This cheese platter is enhanced with a drizzle of olive oil, flaky sea salt, and garnished with fresh basil, microgreens, and edible flowers for a natural garden-inspired presentation, perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheeses
- 7 oz oval-shaped mini mozzarella balls
- 7 oz oval goat cheese medallions or similar soft cheese cut into ovals
- 5.3 oz babybel cheese, peeled and halved
Other Ingredients
- 3.5 oz whole raw almonds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- Small handful fresh basil leaves
- Microgreens or edible flowers (optional)
Instructions
- Roast almonds: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the whole raw almonds evenly on a baking tray and roast them for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are golden and emit a rich, aromatic scent. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare cheeses: Drain the mini mozzarella balls and goat cheese medallions thoroughly. Pat them dry gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the cheeses have a polished, dry appearance ideal for presentation.
- Arrange presentation: Select a large serving platter or a wooden board and arrange the different cheeses and the roasted almonds in an organic, winding pattern that mimics a natural stream-bed of polished pebbles. Alternate the cheese varieties and nuts to create visual interest and texture contrast.
- Add finishing touches: Lightly drizzle the entire arrangement with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Then sprinkle 1 teaspoon of flaky sea salt evenly over the cheeses and nuts to enhance flavor and add a delicate crunch.
- Garnish: Decorate the platter with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, sprinkle microgreens or edible flowers across the surface to impart a fresh, garden-inspired aesthetic and vibrant color.
- Serve: Present the platter immediately with cocktail picks or small forks placed alongside for easy and elegant serving at your gathering.
Notes
- Ensure cheeses are well-drained to avoid sogginess and maintain an elegant look.
- Roasting almonds freshly brings out their flavor and adds crunch to the dish.
- Use edible flowers and microgreens for a sophisticated, natural presentation.
- This platter is best served immediately after assembly to preserve freshness.
- Optional additions can include a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for extra flavor contrast.
