Lion King Meat Cheese Platter (Printable Version)

Hearty meats paired with aged cheeses, tropical fruits, and nuts create a vibrant safari-inspired platter.

# 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)

→ 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 - 1/2 cup dried apricots

→ Crackers & Nuts

12 - 1 cup assorted gluten-free crackers
13 - 1/2 cup roasted cashews
14 - 1/2 cup roasted almonds

→ Decorative Elements

15 - Fresh basil or mint leaves for garnish
16 - Edible flowers (optional)

# How To Make It:

01 - On a large platter or wooden board, arrange the sliced meats in a semi-circle or mane shape to mimic a lion’s mane.
02 - Place the cubed aged cheddar and gouda in the center, forming the lion’s face.
03 - Use mozzarella balls to form the snout and eyes; position a grape or olive at the center for the nose.
04 - Arrange the sliced mango, pineapple chunks, and dried apricots around the meats to add color and contrast.
05 - Distribute the gluten-free crackers and roasted nuts evenly to achieve a balanced and appealing presentation.
06 - Decorate with fresh basil, mint leaves, and edible flowers to enhance the jungle-inspired aesthetic.
07 - Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • A visually stunning platter evoking a lion’s mane for a memorable presentation.
  • Easy to assemble with no cooking required, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
  • Gluten-free and low carb options make it suitable for varied diets.
  • Includes a balanced mix of savory meats, creamy cheeses, and refreshing fruits for a complete taste experience.
02 -
  • Arrange meats in a flowing mane shape to maximize the lion-inspired theme.
  • Use contrasting colors with fruit and nuts to create visual interest and balance.
  • Keep ingredients chilled until just before serving for freshness.
  • Incorporate themed elements like safari toothpicks for entertaining impact.
Go Back