Checkerboard Picnic Bites (Printable)

Alternating squares of smoked turkey, roast beef, Swiss, and cheddar for a colorful snack.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 8 slices smoked turkey breast, cut into 1-inch squares
02 - 8 slices roast beef, cut into 1-inch squares

→ Cheeses

03 - 8 slices Swiss cheese, cut into 1-inch squares
04 - 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch squares

→ Garnish (optional)

05 - Fresh chives, finely chopped
06 - Cracked black pepper

# How to Make It:

01 - Place parchment paper or a serving board on your workspace.
02 - Lay out a 4x4 grid alternating meat and cheese squares, beginning with turkey in the top left corner, followed by cheddar, and alternate each row and column with roast beef and Swiss cheese.
03 - Press adjacent squares gently to adhere; optionally, apply a small dab of honey or mustard under each square to help them stick if transporting.
04 - Sprinkle chopped fresh chives and cracked black pepper over the assembled bites if desired.
05 - Present chilled or at room temperature.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Zero cooking required—just sharp knife skills and an eye for pattern, making it perfect when your oven is already occupied
  • This recipe impresses people before they even taste it, and the contrast of flavors lives up to the stunning presentation
  • Naturally gluten-free, dairy-forward, and works beautifully as a make-ahead appetizer that actually improves when it sits for a bit
02 -
  • The size and uniformity of your squares matter more than perfection—slightly wobbly edges give the platter an honest, homemade charm that guests actually love more than a too-precise grid
  • Room temperature is where the cheeses will taste brightest and the meats won't feel hard or cold—take it out of the fridge 10 minutes before serving if you refrigerated it
03 -
  • A sharp knife and a steady hand matter more than any special tool—slice once and let the blade do the work rather than sawing through your ingredients
  • If your cheese slices are too thin and fold as you cut them, pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes first and they'll hold their shape beautifully
Go Back