Layered Urban Skyline Appetizer (Printable Version)

Crisp crackers topped with cheddar, gouda, and folded salami create a vibrant layered cityscape.

# Ingredient List:

→ Crackers

01 - 18 rectangular whole grain crackers

→ Cheeses

02 - 5.3 oz sharp cheddar, cut into 0.8 inch cubes
03 - 5.3 oz gouda, cut into 0.8 inch cubes

→ Meats

04 - 3.5 oz salami slices
05 - 3.5 oz prosciutto slices

→ Garnishes

06 - 12 fresh chives, cut to varying lengths
07 - 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Place crackers vertically on a large rectangular platter, spacing them unevenly to mimic a city skyline.
02 - Layer cheddar and gouda cubes atop the crackers at varying heights, alternating to create color contrast.
03 - Fold salami and prosciutto slices into loose ribbons or rosettes and position them between and atop cheese stacks to enhance the skyline effect.
04 - Place fresh chives upright among the stacks to resemble antennae and spires.
05 - Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the arrangement for color pops, if desired.
06 - Present immediately and encourage guests to pull apart sections for easy sharing.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It's a conversation starter that transforms simple ingredients into an edible work of art
  • Zero cooking required means you can prepare it while staying composed and actually enjoying your guests
  • The contrast of textures—crisp crackers, creamy cheese, silky meats—creates a symphony in every bite
  • It's flexible enough to adapt to whatever cheeses and cured meats you have on hand
02 -
  • The order of assembly matters more than you'd think—if you place the meats before stacking all the cheese, they slip and slide. Cheese first, then drape the meats for stability and visual control.
  • I learned the hard way that room temperature ingredients are essential. Cold cheese cubes won't stack as gracefully, and cold meats crack instead of fold. Remove everything from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before assembly.
  • The spacing of your base crackers sets the entire mood. Too regular and it looks staged; too chaotic and it looks unintentional. Aim for a natural irregularity that still reads as intentional composition.
03 -
  • Use a sharp knife for cutting cheese—dull blades crush the cubes and create a ragged appearance that undermines the architectural precision of the finished dish
  • If your prosciutto or salami is sticking together, separate the slices gently with your fingers and let them air for a few minutes before folding—they'll move more gracefully
  • For extra height and drama, consider doubling up crackers on some stacks before adding cheese, creating a three-layer base for your tallest towers
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