A regal spread of meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts arranged to evoke the Lion King’s spirit.
# What you'll need:
→ Meats
01 - 3.5 oz sliced roast beef
02 - 3.5 oz sliced smoked turkey
03 - 3.5 oz sliced salami
04 - 3.5 oz biltong or beef jerky (optional, for a South African touch)
→ Cheeses
05 - 3.5 oz aged cheddar, cubed
06 - 3.5 oz gouda, cubed
07 - 3.5 oz mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
→ Fruits & Garnishes
08 - 1 mango, sliced
09 - 1 cup seedless red grapes
10 - 1 cup pineapple chunks
11 - ½ cup dried apricots
→ Crackers & Nuts
12 - 1 cup assorted gluten-free crackers
13 - ½ cup roasted cashews
14 - ½ cup roasted almonds
→ Decorative Elements
15 - Fresh basil or mint leaves, for garnish
16 - Edible flowers (optional, for a jungle feel)
# Method:
01 - On a large platter or wooden board, arrange the sliced meats in a semi-circle or mane shape to evoke a lion’s mane.
02 - Place the cubed aged cheddar and gouda in the center to form the face of the lion.
03 - Use mozzarella balls to create the lion’s snout and add two for eyes; place a grape or olive to represent the nose.
04 - Arrange sliced mango, pineapple chunks, and dried apricots around the meats to add color and contrast.
05 - Fill remaining spaces with gluten-free crackers and roasted nuts to achieve a balanced and appealing presentation.
06 - Garnish the platter with fresh basil or mint leaves and edible flowers for a wild, jungle-inspired aesthetic.
07 - Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
