Who doesn’t love a delicious platter? While they are fan favourite with pretty much everyone, platters can be very decadent and easy to over-do. If you are entertaining soon or have an event coming up and want to strike some balance, why not bring a healthier version to the table? Let’s look at how to build a healthy platter that everyone will enjoy!
Veggie sticks
It probably won’t surprise you to see this one on our list. When it comes to platters, people spend a lot of time standing around grazing from them. Having some high-volume, low-energy foods like veggie sticks is a great option. Include a variety of delicious options like carrots, cucumber, capsicum and celery. They’re also great on their own or with dips, so you can dress them up or down as you like.
Dips
Making your own at home or checking labels thoroughly to ensure you’re buying a healthy dip is a must. Try to limit energy-dense options that are high in saturated fat, like French onion, for example. Instead, choose delicious nutrient-dense dips like hummus or beetroot, pumpkin and walnut, capsicum or olive dips. And don’t forget to add some FODMAP-friendly options if you or any of your guests suffer from IBS or IBD.
Wholegrain crackers
Rather than plain wheat crackers, opt for wholegrain rice crackers or seeded crackers for extra fibre, texture and a richer, nuttier taste. These pair perfectly with either dips or cheese!
Cheese
And speaking of cheese… You may be surprised to see this on our how to build a healthy platter guide. In moderate amounts, cheese can be a nourishing option to include. It is a source of key nutrients such as protein, calcium and vitamin B12. The key word here is ‘moderate’. It’s really easy to overdo the cheese, so aim to limit it to 1-2 smaller cheese on the platter, taking into account that a serving of cheese is 40 g per person.
Fruit
This is a refreshing option to any meal, and platters are no different, especially in summer. Just a few good options to include are strawberries, grapes, sliced apples or pears and figs.
Olives
They’re a great source of healthy fat and make for a delicious addition to a cheese platter. Aim for plain Kalamata or green olives over stuffed options.
Nuts
Like olives, nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, among many other valuable micronutrients. Choose a selection of your favourites, making sure they’re unsalted. Like cheese, their moreishness makes it easy to overdo them. Remember that one serve is 30 g.
While you’re standing around the table chatting and munching, it can be easy to overindulge in a platter. Set out a stack of plates for you and your guests nearby. This will encourage everyone to plate up, and you can lead everyone in walking away from the table to sit down and enjoy snacks without eating mindlessly. This will also prevent you from becoming uncomfortably full, which is an extra bonus! Are you looking for more ways to make quick, easy and healthy swaps? Follow us on Instagram for more ideas.