Cubist Deconstruction Appetizer (Print version)

Visually striking starter showcasing colorful geometric-cut produce and feta with fresh herbs and citrus-olive oil dressing.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 small cucumber, peeled
02 - 1 medium golden beet, cooked and peeled
03 - 1 medium watermelon radish, peeled
04 - 1 ripe avocado

→ Cheese

05 - 3.5 oz block feta cheese

→ Fruit

06 - 1 ripe mango, peeled

→ Garnishes & Seasoning

07 - 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
08 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
09 - Flaky sea salt, to taste
10 - Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
11 - Microgreens or fresh herbs (e.g., basil, cilantro), for garnish

# How to Make:

01 - Slice vegetables and fruits into various geometric shapes approximately 0.4 inches thick, using a sharp knife or small cookie cutters for accuracy.
02 - Cut feta cheese into geometric cubes or prisms to complement the presentation.
03 - Place vegetable, fruit, and cheese pieces side-by-side on a large flat platter without overlapping, forming a visually engaging cubist mosaic.
04 - Evenly drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the arrangement, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
05 - Add microgreens or fresh herbs for color and freshness, and serve immediately to maintain vibrant presentation.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • It's a total showstopper that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but takes just 25 minutes to pull together
  • Every bite is a surprise of contrasting flavors and textures—creamy avocado, earthy beet, crisp cucumber, sweet mango, tangy feta
  • It's naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and opens the door to endless variations depending on what's in your produce drawer
02 -
  • Don't prep everything too far in advance. The avocado will brown, the cucumber will weep, and the overall freshness suffers. Cut everything 10–15 minutes before serving if you can manage it.
  • Sharp knife or nothing. A dull blade will bruise your vegetables and make your geometric cuts look messy instead of intentional. A few passes with a honing steel before you start makes all the difference.
03 -
  • Invest in a truly sharp chef's knife. It transforms this recipe from frustrating to meditative, and your cuts will be cleaner and more intentional.
  • Cold ingredients are your friend. Chill your vegetables and feta before cutting and arranging. They stay fresher, hold their shape better, and taste more vibrant.
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