Save Experience the vibrant harmony of sweet figs, crunchy walnuts, and creamy plant-based cheese united in a stunning star-shaped board. This Fig and Walnut Star Board is an elegant vegan appetizer that combines fresh fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup to delight both the eyes and the palate, making it perfect for festive gatherings and modern European dining.
Save This appetizer invites your guests to explore a medley of textures and flavors—from juicy figs and grapes to crunchy walnuts and creamy cheese, all framed by crisp crackers and toasted baguette slices. The touch of maple syrup adds a sweet glaze that ties everything together beautifully.
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
- 1. Arrange the quartered figs and walnut halves in alternating points to form a star shape on a large serving board or platter.
- 2. Fill the spaces between the star points with clusters of grapes, pear, and apple slices.
- 3. Place dollops of vegan soft cheese and pieces of vegan blue cheese-style wedge around the board.
- 4. Fan out the crackers and toasted baguette slices along the edges of the board.
- 5. Drizzle maple syrup or agave nectar lightly over the figs and walnuts.
- 6. Garnish with pistachios and fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.
- 7. Serve immediately, encouraging guests to mix and match flavors.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using fresh figs creates the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, but if they are unavailable, dried figs can be substituted to maintain the flavor profile. For an extra crunch and a hint of caramelized sweetness, try candied walnuts, which add a delightful twist to the dish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Add variety by including dried apricots, vegan pâté, or roasted chickpeas to the board. These options enhance flavors and textures, offering guests an even more diverse tasting experience.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this elegant vegan appetizer with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water infused with citrus to complement the fresh and nutty flavors. The combination makes for a refreshing and festive start to any meal.
Save With minimal effort and vibrant results, the Fig and Walnut Star Board is a show-stopping starter that invites sharing and celebrating the best of plant-based flavors in an artful arrangement.
Recipe Guide
- → How can I substitute fresh figs if unavailable?
Dried figs can be used as a substitute; rehydrate them slightly with warm water to restore softness.
- → What nuts complement this star board best?
Walnuts provide crunch and earthiness, while pistachios add a mild, nutty garnish enhancing texture and color.
- → Can I prepare this board in advance?
Arrange most ingredients shortly before serving to maintain freshness, especially fresh fruit and plant-based cheeses.
- → What types of plant-based cheese work well here?
Soft vegan cheeses like cashew-based and blue cheese-style wedges create creamy contrasts and depth of flavor.
- → How does the maple syrup affect the flavor profile?
Drizzling maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tartness of figs and the crunch of nuts.