There's a time to simmer, a time to slow roast, and a time to chill. This little guide is for when all you want to do is binge watch #TigerKing and get some booty.
Like most of my recipes, you can #usewhatyouhave in your kitchen, pantry and fridge. Just remember, the keys to a successful snack plate are mixing up texture, color, flavor. I want a little bit of everything...salty, sweet, spicy, acidic, crunchy, smooth, creamy, crisp.
PICK YOUR PLATTER
I typically use one of my wood cutting boards but you can use pretty much anything. Got a sheet pan? Use that. Only have a plate? Use two of those. It really doesn't matter. You're at home and probably in sweatpants, or maybe you're not wearing pants. Who cares!? We're #cookingthruquarantine people.
PULL FROM YOUR STASH
Open your fridge and start pulling any of the following:
DIPS
If you haven't tried Bitchin' Sauce you're missing out. It's #vegan, #glutenfree and made from almonds. I get the big Chipotle container from Costco because I use it all the time.
I also love the vegan basil pesto from #TraderJoes and a smoked salmon or smoked trout dip from #WholeFoods
If all you have is Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar, then just pour them into a small bowl and dip away. Also try honey or jam for a sweetness.
CHEESE
My go to is an English Coastal White Cheddar and Bellavitano. I try to get my "everyday" cheeses (Cheddar & Parmesan) from Costco (of course) because they are SO much cheaper than what you find at regular grocers. A soft mozzarella or creamy port salut is a great addition if you have it.
FRUITS & VEGGIES
Grab a few of your faves. For raw veggies, I typically have cucumber, cherry tomatoes and carrots so I just slice them up, drizzle with EVOO and a pinch of salt. Radishes, bell peppers, baby romaine lettuce are lovely alternatives.
I'll admit that I don't always have fruit. But since quarantine started, Bryan has been keeping my kitchen stocked with apples and clementines which are perfect for a little snack plate.
*Bonus Snack* I LOVE the olive bar at Whole Foods. I don't think there's ever been a time when I go in there and not leave with a small container of mixed olives and peppers. It's a bit pricey but I'll snack on that shit for a week.
CHARCUTERIE
French word for "pork butcher shop". Basically cured meats and paté. Again, Costco is my go to for this one. They have a great variety pack and the shelf life on cured meats is roughly 2 weeks in the fridge.
NUTS AND GRAINS
I love #MarconaAlmonds but they are a bit pricey and I don't always have them on hand. Bryan loves his trailmix (Again, Costco) which is a perfect addition to a snack plate; a little salty, a little sweet.
Obviously a crusty bread or crunchy cracker are a great option but I also don't always have those. My replacement? Fucking Potato Chips. I know, it's a little out of the ordinary but what can I say, I'm a chip girl. Don't judge me.
NETFLIX AND CHILL
Now pour yourself an adult size glass of wine, grab some napkins, take your pants off and sit your ass down on the couch for some leisurely binge watching, grazing, sipping, and snuggling. You're welcome.
Photos are by my sweet friends Kylee and David Miller - Larelleplusdale.