Charcuterie boards add more to the party than simply being the latest trend. They can keep your entertaining endeavors, festive and welcoming and clean and simple.
All the items for a charcuterie board can be prepped and ready to go ahead of time. Preparing extras makes for refilling boards easy as well as switching out perishables if needed.
Adding interesting spices and flavors adds to the fun and makes your guest feel special and becomes a conversation starter if your group isn’t well acquainted.
Charcuterie boards are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even dessert and can be created for any size group.
Multiple boards can be used to help with party flow, separate foods whether it’s hot/cold, vegan, gluten-free, or sweet/savory.
Charcuterie boards have such a mixture of items everyone will find something to eat and won’t have to feel uncomfortable if they choose to pass on an item.
When you use a variety of colors and shapes to create a bountiful board of deliciousness, it is so visually appealing it becomes the centerpiece.
How to Charcuterie, you ask?
To get started, grab a board! Any food safe material will work. The size of course will depend on whether it’s an appetizer or main dish and the size of your party.
Other items needed are small serving dishes and utensils. Along with small plates and/or cocktail napkins for serving.
The food items for a charcuterie board are endless as really anything goes. A general rule of thumb is to plan for 3oz of cheese and meat per person for an appetizer and 6oz if serving as a main dish.
Meats: Salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni are commonly used.
Cheeses: Both hard and soft should be introduced
Spreads: Jelly/Jams, Mustards and Hummus, but don’t rule out honey or chutneys!
Fruits & Vegetables: The opportunities are truly endless. Our recommendation is to keep it seasonal and try something new!
Crackers & Breads: You can’t go wrong with sliced baguettes, crackers, or pretzels both hard and soft. Breadsticks can also be a fun addition!
Extras: Olives, Pickles and of course Nuts are a must! They round out a board perfectly. And don’t forget Chocolate!
To arrange your charcuterie board follow these steps and remember there is not a wrong way to charcuterie.
First, place the serving bowls on the board, then place the meat and cheese pairings in different sections. Connect the meat and cheese pairings with the breads and crackers. Tuck berries and veggies in the remaining spaces and fill in the nooks and crannies with the nuts, olives and other extras. The one thing to keep in mind is the moisture of the foods, so you don’t end up with any soggy items.
Charcuterie boards are a fun, festive and simple trend to add to your holidays.
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