Save on Pinterest I'll never forget the winter party where my aunt brought a peppermint-striped platter that stopped everyone mid-conversation. The way the red strawberries and raspberries gleamed against creamy white cheese, arranged in those perfect alternating stripes, felt like edible artwork. That moment taught me that sometimes the most memorable dishes aren't about complicated cooking—they're about taking simple, beautiful ingredients and arranging them with intention. Now whenever I host gatherings, I recreate that magic with my own version of this festive platter, and it never fails to become the centerpiece everyone gravitates toward first.
I remember setting this platter in the center of my holiday table and watching my teenage niece actually look up from her phone—that's when I knew I'd created something special. The peppermint candy aesthetic somehow made everyone feel like they were part of something festive and celebratory, not just grabbing snacks.
Ingredients
- Fresh mozzarella balls (200 g): These creamy little orbs are your foundation for the white stripes—they're mild enough to let other flavors shine and give you that soft, cloud-like texture that makes people pause mid-bite. Look for ciliegine or bocconcini at the cheese counter; they're worth seeking out.
- White cheddar cheese, sliced (200 g): A sharper white cheese adds complexity and stays firm on the platter without getting weepy. It gives you substance and a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
- Havarti cheese, sliced (200 g): Buttery and smooth, this Danish cheese fills in your white stripes with a subtle sweetness that feels almost luxurious. It's the cheese that makes people ask 'what is this?'
- Sliced strawberries (150 g): Fresh, bright, and immediately recognizable—these are your primary red statement. Cut them just before serving so they stay perky and jewel-like on your platter.
- Raspberries (150 g): These delicate berries add texture contrast and their deep red color is pure magic against white cheese. Handle them gently; they're fragile but worth it.
- Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (100 g): This is where savory enters the conversation. These little tomatoes add umami depth and remind everyone that this isn't just a dessert platter—there's real food here.
- Roasted red bell peppers, sliced (100 g): Sweet, silky, and deeply colored, roasted peppers fill in gaps beautifully and add a sophisticated smoky note. You can buy them jarred and just pat them dry.
- Thinly sliced salami (150 g): Optional but transformative—thin slices let you roll them into delicate roses that tuck into red rows. It brings saltiness and a touch of elegance.
- Prosciutto (100 g): Paper-thin and slightly salty, this adds refinement and helps bridge the gap between appetizer and full meal vibes.
- Water crackers (150 g): Choose quality ones here—they should taste like something, not nothing. They provide textural contrast and a neutral base for flavors.
- Baguette slices (100 g): Slice thin and arrange to add another white stripe and give people options for how they want to eat this.
- Fresh mint leaves: These aren't just garnish—they're the soul of the peppermint theme. Their cool brightness ties the whole visual concept together and adds a whisper of herbal freshness.
- Microgreens or edible flowers (optional): If you have them, scatter these like confetti at the very end. They add height, color, and make the whole thing feel intentional and special.
Instructions
- Start with your canvas:
- Choose a large rectangular or circular platter—this is your stage. If it's wood, let its warmth show through. If it's ceramic, pick one in white or neutral tones so your stripes really sing. Take a moment to envision your stripes before you begin; this mental map will keep you flowing smoothly.
- Lay your first white stripe:
- Start at one edge and create your opening row. Use those creamy mozzarella balls, letting them nestle against each other, or lay cheddar slices in a slightly overlapping pattern. This first stripe sets the tone—make it confident and even.
- Add your first pop of color:
- Here's where the magic starts. Lay down those sliced strawberries or raspberries in a clean row next to your white. You'll see the contrast immediately and feel a little thrill—this is the moment you know this is going to work.
- Build your rhythm of stripes:
- Continue alternating between white and red, weaving in your different elements as you go. Use tomatoes, roasted peppers, different cheeses—this isn't about rigid perfection, it's about creating visual balance. Think of it like painting with food; each stripe should be distinct enough to be seen clearly.
- Weave in texture:
- Every few stripes, insert rows of crackers or thin baguette slices. This breaks up the pattern in a way that feels intentional and gives guests textural variety. It also makes the platter feel more generous and complete.
- Craft your salami roses:
- If you're using salami, take thin slices and roll each one loosely into a rose shape—don't overthink it, they look charming even slightly imperfect. Tuck these into your red stripes where they'll nestle beautifully and add that special touch that makes people think you're a plating artist.
- Crown it with mint:
- Once your stripes are complete, scatter fresh mint leaves across the entire platter. Let them land naturally, as if they've been gently tossed. If you have microgreens or edible flowers, add those now in little clusters that echo the peppermint theme.
- Present or hold:
- Serve immediately while everything is at its freshest and most vibrant, or cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. When you bring it to the table, your guests will understand immediately why this platter commands attention.
Save on Pinterest What struck me most at that holiday party wasn't just the beauty of the platter itself, but how it brought people together. My normally reserved uncle stood there making himself a little tower of cheese, fruit, and crackers, completely absorbed. A dish arranged with care becomes more than food—it becomes an invitation to slow down and notice the small pleasures.
The Vegetarian Twist You Didn't Know You Needed
Simply omit the salami and prosciutto, and you've got a platter that's just as impressive and satisfying. Add extra cheeses to fill those gaps—perhaps a creamy burrata or some tangy chèvre. Marinated tofu pressed thin can stand in for the textural element meats provide, or dollop a gorgeous roasted red pepper hummus in small bowls nestled into the platter. This version feels lighter and actually lets the fruit shine even brighter. I've served it to vegetarian friends who said it felt more celebratory than the meat version, and they might be right.
Make It Your Own: Variations That Work
The beauty of a striped platter is that it's endlessly adaptable. Swap strawberries for pomegranate seeds if you want jewel-like gems, or use red grapes for a completely different texture and sweetness level. In winter, I sometimes replace the fresh strawberries with dried cranberries and add white chocolate shavings for a dessert-leaning version. In summer, cherry tomatoes become even more vibrant, and fresh basil can partner with the mint for an herbal theme. The structure stays the same, but your ingredient creativity gets to play.
- Try pomegranate arils and candied walnuts for autumn energy
- Layer in white chocolate pieces and red velvet cookies for an actual dessert situation
- Add fresh herbs like basil or tarragon to echo the mint theme in savory ways
Pairing and Presentation That Elevates Everything
Serve this platter with a light sparkling wine—a prosecco feels perfect, or a cranberry spritz if you want something non-alcoholic that echoes the peppermint-holiday vibe. The bubbles and acidity cut through the richness of the cheese while the slight sweetness complements the fruit. I've discovered that people graze differently when there's a thoughtful beverage pairing—they slow down, they notice flavors more, the whole experience becomes more intentional. Set small napkins nearby because fingers will get busy, and maybe place little plates around the platter so people aren't juggling components.
- Prosecco or Cava keeps things celebratory and light
- Cranberry spritz adds visual echo to your red-and-white theme
- Sparkling water with fresh mint offers a non-alcoholic option that tastes intentional, not like an afterthought
Save on Pinterest Every time I create this platter, I'm recreating that moment of quiet appreciation at my aunt's party—that feeling that someone cared enough to make something beautiful. That's what this recipe gives you: not complicated technique, but the joy of creation and presentation.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cheeses are best for this platter?
Fresh mozzarella balls, white cheddar, and Havarti sliced thinly offer a mix of textures and flavors that complement the red accents perfectly.
- → Can I make this platter vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meats and add extra cheeses, marinated tofu, or red bell pepper hummus to maintain rich flavors and variety.
- → How should I arrange the ingredients for the peppermint effect?
Alternate rows of white cheeses and red elements such as strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, and roasted peppers to create clear stripes reminiscent of peppermint candies.
- → What are some good garnishes for this platter?
Fresh mint leaves bring out the peppermint theme, while microgreens or edible flowers add a touch of elegance.
- → How long can this platter be prepared ahead of time?
Prepare and assemble up to 2 hours in advance, then cover and refrigerate to keep ingredients fresh before serving.
- → Can I substitute the red ingredients for something else?
Yes, pomegranate seeds or red grapes are excellent alternatives to berries and peppers for a different flavor and visual appeal.