Pin it A vibrant and elegant vegan appetizer featuring sweet figs, crunchy walnuts, creamy plant-based cheese, and an array of accompaniments, artfully arranged in a star shape—perfect for festive gatherings.
This appetizer is always a hit at my holiday parties, impressing guests with both taste and presentation.
Ingredients
- Fresh Produce: 8 fresh figs quartered, 1 cup seedless red grapes halved, 1 small pear thinly sliced, 1 small apple thinly sliced
- Nuts & Seeds: 1 cup raw walnuts halves or large pieces, 2 tbsp shelled pistachios (optional for garnish)
- Plant-Based Cheese: 150 g vegan soft cheese (e.g. cashew-based), 100 g vegan blue cheese-style wedge (optional)
- Crackers & Bread: 12 16 assorted vegan crackers, 1 small baguette thinly sliced and toasted
- Extras: 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar, Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Arrange:
- Arrange the quartered figs and walnut halves in alternating points to form a star shape on a large serving board or platter.
- Fill:
- Fill the spaces between the star points with clusters of grapes, pear, and apple slices.
- Add Cheese:
- Place dollops of vegan soft cheese and pieces of vegan blue cheese-style wedge around the board.
- Fan Out:
- Fan out the crackers and toasted baguette slices along the edges of the board.
- Drizzle:
- Drizzle maple syrup or agave nectar lightly over the figs and walnuts.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with pistachios and fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, encouraging guests to mix and match flavors.
Pin it This dish always brings my family together around the table for a delightful shared experience.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, Paring knife, Small bowls or ramekins (for cheese or syrup optional), Bread knife
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (walnuts pistachios) and gluten (if using wheat-based crackers/bread). Vegan cheeses may contain soy or cashews—check labels if allergic.
Nutritional Information
Calories 220, Total Fat 11 g, Carbohydrates 26 g, Protein 4 g per serving.
Pin it This fig and walnut star board makes for an eye-catching and delicious start to any celebration.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of walnuts work best for this board?
Whole or large halves of raw walnuts offer the best crunch and visual appeal. Candied walnuts can add a touch of sweetness if preferred.
- → Can I use dried figs instead of fresh ones?
Yes, dried figs can be substituted, though fresh figs provide a juicier texture and brighter flavor.
- → What plant-based cheeses are recommended?
Soft vegan cheeses like cashew-based spreads or blue cheese-style wedges complement the fruits and nuts nicely.
- → How should I assemble the star shape on the board?
Arrange quartered figs and walnut halves alternately to form star points, then fill gaps with grapes and sliced fruits for balance.
- → Are there any suggested accompaniments to serve with the board?
Assorted vegan crackers, toasted baguette slices, and a light drizzle of maple syrup enhance flavors and textures.