Whatever Happened to the Classic Michigan Relish Plate?

"Whatever happened to a good Michigan relish plate?" That was a question I overheard from a friend at a party recently.

Things That Are Pure Michigan

First, I paused because I really had to think about what he was talking about.

Did he mean a literal plate full of relish, like for hot dogs? Then it hit me: no, he was talking about a particular dish that was very popular at lots of Michigan parties.

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It took a moment for me to realize what he was talking about because it's been a while since I've seen one of these. Which really goes to prove his point: there has been a serious lack of relish plates at Michigan gatherings of late.

What Exactly Is a Michigan Relish Plate?

If you don't know what a relish plate is, allow me to explain. A relish plate is a dish that someone typically made to pass at parties that consisted of a variety of pickles, olives, and other pickled items. The host of the party put it together, or someone could bring it to pass.

Growing up, my grandma had a specific set of dishes that were arranged in a tower formation that was designated as the relish plate. Our assortment of pickled items included dill spears, bread and butter gherkins, black and green olives, and Swiss cheese.

Did Charcuterie Boards Replace Relish Plates?

Nowadays, instead of a relish plate, I usually spy a charcuterie board. Meats, cheeses, crackers, fruits, veggies, condiments, and cute little extras. Has the charcuterie board replaced the Michigan relish plate for parties? Or should it make a comeback? You be the judge.