This year, you can plan a series of gatherings that celebrate connection, from lively Galentine’s brunches with close friends to sophisticated client dinners that strengthen professional relationships. In Nashville, where hospitality thrives, the right food can turn these moments into memorable experiences. Shareable bites are great because they encourage interaction. Guests can reach for the same platter or tower, sparking laughter and storytelling.
For Galentine’s, focus on a playful abundance of food. For client dinners, aim for a polished presentation. This guide features CRAVE’s favorite recipes for charcuterie towers and mini desserts, complete with assembly tips and pairing ideas.
The Art of the Charcuterie Tower
Charcuterie towers transform the classic board into a stunning centerpiece. Layered for visual impact, they provide diverse flavors in every bite. CRAVE designs these for events where guests socialize, ensuring everyone is satisfied while the host remains engaged.
Recipe: The Galentine's Charcuterie Tower
- 8 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 6 oz salami, folded into roses
- 4 oz chorizo, coin-sliced
- 8 oz aged cheddar, cubed
- 6 oz brie, cut into wedges
- 4 oz goat cheese, herb-crusted
- 1 cup marinated olives
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, halved
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 1 cup candied pecans
- 2 sleeves of water crackers
- Fresh figs (6-8), quartered
- Honeycomb for drizzling
- Rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Start with a sturdy three-tiered stand (wood or slate for warmth). The base tier holds hearty items: salami coins, chorizo, cheddar cubes, and crackers.
- Middle-tier features soft cheeses: brie wedges, goat cheese, and fruits like strawberries and figs.
- Top-tier displays delicate touches: prosciutto folds, olives, artichokes, dried apricots, and pecans. Crown with honeycomb and rosemary.
- Add height with vertical picks for fruit skewers. Drizzle honey lightly over cheeses just before serving.
Recipe: Client Dinner Charcuterie Tower
- 6 oz soppressata, fanned
- 4 oz mortadella, rolled
- 6 oz manchego, shaved
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- 8 oz camembert, quartered
- 1/2 cup cornichons
- 1/2 cup quince paste, cubed
- 1 cup toasted almonds
- 1 sleeve rye crisps
- Fresh grapes (red and green clusters)
- Fig jam in a small bowl
- Thyme sprigs
- Base: soppressata fans, mortadella rolls, manchego shavings, and rye crisps.
- Middle: camembert, blue cheese, quince paste, cornichons.
- Top: almonds, grapes, fig jam in a bowl. Garnish with thyme.
- Keep portions controlled for elegance.
Presentation Tip: Use a black marble stand for contrast. Serve these towers alongside red wines or sparkling water with twist of lemon. Prep: 25 minutes. These towers keep conversations flowing without overpowering the room.
Mini Desserts That Steal the Show
Recipe: Mini Chocolate Lava Cakes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao), chopped
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup flour
- Pinch of salt
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Vanilla ice cream (optional scoop)
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Grease mini muffin tins.
- Melt butter and chocolate over a double boiler. Stir until smooth. Cool slightly.
- Whisk sugar, eggs, yolks, and vanilla. Fold in the chocolate mixture, then the flour and salt.
- Fill tins 3/4 full. Bake 8-10 minutes until edges set, but centers jiggle.
- Cool for 2 minutes, then pop out. Dust with cocoa. Serve warm.
Serving Tip: Plate three per guest with a tiny ice cream quenelle. For Galentine’s, add raspberry coulis. Client dinners: pair with espresso shots. Total time: 40 minutes, including baking and cooling.
The molten center delivers drama, perfect for sharing “oohs” around the table.
Recipe: Lemon Posset Tarts
- Crust: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 tbsp sugar
- Filling: 2 cups heavy cream, 2/3 cup sugar, 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice, zest of 2 lemons
- Candied lemon peel for garnish
- Whipped cream
- Mix crust ingredients. Press into mini tart pans. Chill for 15 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F for 8 minutes. Cool.
- Heat cream and sugar until simmering. Off heat, stir in lemon juice and zest. Pour into tarts. Chill for 2 hours.
- Top with whipped cream and candied peel.
Serving Tip: Galentines get berry accents; clients, a mint leaf. Prep ahead for ease. Time: 30 minutes active + chill.
Bright and creamy, these refresh after savory bites.
Hosting Tips for Seamless Shareables
- Scale for group size: Double meats/cheeses for hearty eaters.
- Prep ahead: Assemble towers 1 hour before and cover loosely.
- Dietary notes: Offer vegan cheeses and gluten-free crackers.
- Flow matters: Place towers centrally. Refresh as needed.
For Galentine’s, add music playlists. Client dinners: soft lighting. Both thrive on abundance without creating a mess.
CRAVE Catering brings these to life with fresh Nashville sourcing and flawless delivery. From towers that wow to desserts that delight, shareable bites make gatherings effortless. Contact CRAVE for your event. Let food spark the connections that last.
