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 was a hit at our last spring brunch, bringing both beauty and freshness to the table.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 16&ndash20 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
- Step 1:
- If desired blanch the asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil Add asparagus and cook for 12 minutes until bright green and just tender Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking Pat dry
- Step 2:
- 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
- Step 3:
- 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
- Step 4:
- If using sprinkle cheese and nuts over the fruit and asparagus Drizzle lightly with honey or balsamic glaze
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately providing small tongs or skewers for easy serving
Save to Pinterest Our family loves gathering around this colorful board, often sparking conversations about our favorite fruits and memories tied to them.
Notes
For extra flair add edible flowers or fresh mint leaves Substitute or add any of your favorite seasonal fruits 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) Tongs or skewers
Nutritional Information
Calories: 95 Total Fat: 1 g Carbohydrates: 22 g Protein: 2 g per serving without cheese or nuts
Save to Pinterest This fresh board is perfect for any occasion and offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to prepare the asparagus for this platter?
Blanch the asparagus briefly in salted boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. This keeps them tender and vibrant green.
- → Which fruits work well for this arrangement?
Seasonal fruits like strawberries, grapes, blueberries, oranges, pineapple, kiwi, apple, and pomegranate seeds provide a colorful and varied display.
- → Can I add toppings to enhance flavor and texture?
Yes, crumbled goat cheese or feta, roasted nuts, and a light drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze complement the fresh produce nicely.
- → How should the platter be served?
Arrange asparagus stems as branches, surround with fruit pieces as flowers and foliage, and provide tongs or skewers for easy serving.
- → Are there any suggested variations or extras?
Adding edible flowers, fresh mint leaves, or serving with a yogurt dip or whipped ricotta adds extra flair and taste.