Blackberry Mezze Board with Goat Cheese, Walnuts and Honey

Simple. Elegant. Nourishing. This Blackberry Mezze Board brings together the sweet and savory flavors of a classic Mediterranean board using just a few ingredients: ripe blackberries, creamy goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and a drizzle of golden honey. It’s the kind of effortless dish that reminds us that Mediterranean eating isn’t about complexity, it’s about balance, freshness, and enjoying beautiful food in good company.

What is a mezze?

A mezze (also spelled meze or mezzeh) is a selection of small dishes served together, common across the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, especially in countries like Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, and Egypt.

Think of it as the Eastern Mediterranean’s answer to Spanish tapas: a social, shareable spread designed for lingering over with family and friends.

More than a fruit platter

Inspired by the Greek-Cypriot tradition of fruit and cheese served as part of a mezze spread, this small plate is perfect for warm evenings, wine pairings, or a nourishing afternoon snack. In Cyprus and many parts of the Mediterranean, it’s common to serve salty cheeses like feta or goat cheese alongside fruit, nuts, and honey, foods that are naturally in season and deeply satisfying without being heavy.

The blackberries provide a juicy tartness that pairs perfectly with the tangy goat cheese. Toasted walnuts add texture and heart-healthy fats, while a touch of honey ties everything together with just the right amount of sweetness. Served with a few slices of crusty whole grain bread or whole wheat crackers, this dish becomes a memorable light lunch or appetizer that takes five minutes to assemble.

It’s also a perfect example of how a Mediterranean mezze board can be simple, nourishing, and deeply pleasurable all at once.

Health Benefits of Blackberry Mezze Board

Antioxidant Power: Blackberries are high in polyphenols, vitamin C, and fiber, which support immune function and healthy aging.

Heart-Healthy Fats: Walnuts provide plant-based omega-3s that reduce inflammation and support brain and heart health.

Digestive Support: Goat cheese is lower in lactose and easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese.

Balanced Blood Sugar: Pairing fruit with protein and fat slows sugar absorption and promotes satiety.

Whole Food Ingredients: No processed sugar or additives—just real, seasonal, nutrient-rich ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use another fruit if I don’t have blackberries?
Yes! Fresh figs, grapes, strawberries, or sliced peaches all pair beautifully with goat cheese and honey.

Is this a dessert or appetizer?
Both! It works equally well as a light savory-sweet appetizer, an afternoon snack, or a naturally sweet dessert.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best assembled fresh, but you can toast the walnuts and wash the berries ahead. Assemble just before serving.

Can I substitute a different cheese?
Absolutely. Feta, labneh, or even ricotta salata are good alternatives. Each brings its own twist to the flavor profile.

What kind of honey should I use?
A mild raw honey works best, but thyme or wildflower honey adds a lovely floral note that complements the blackberries.

Great Pairing Recipes for Blackberry Mezze Board

1. Black Olive Tapenade (French-style)

This flavorful olive spread adds a briny, savory contrast that complements the sweetness of blackberries and honey. It pairs well with your goat cheese and roasted walnuts or can be spread on crostini and pita chips for added texture.

2. Whole-Wheat Pita Bread

A wholesome, chewy bread like this is perfect for scooping up the tapenade or enjoying alongside your mezze board. Its mild flavor acts as a neutral, versatile base.

Blackberry Mezze Board with Goat Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey

Bill Bradley, R.D.

No rating - Click the stars to add yours!

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 2

Calories 265 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 cup blackberries fresh
• 1/4 cup goat cheese
• 1/3 cup walnuts roasted
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions

 

• Arrange the blackberries, goat cheese, and toasted walnuts on a small plate or board.
• Drizzle the honey over the walnuts and goat cheese.
• Serve as-is or alongside crusty whole grain bread or crackers for scooping.

Nutrition

Calories: 265kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 9gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 13mgSodium: 106mgPotassium: 215mgFiber: 5gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 451IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Keyword mezze board

Have you tried this recipe? Tell us about it!Click here to rate this recipe in the comments section below.

Prep Notes

If you don’t have pre-roasted walnuts than roast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until fragrant. Use the freshest blackberries you can find, ideally in season for maximum sweetness.