How To Make an Epic Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board, also known as a meat and cheese board, is a delicious and visually appealing way to serve a variety of meats, cheeses and garnishes for parties and snacks.

How to make a charcuterie board

A meat and cheese platter is my go-to dish in the frigid cold that can be enjoyed without stress all year round. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a stunning and delicious charcuterie board that will impress your guests. Add a salad platter, wine and baguette and your meal is ready.

Photo by Raul Velasco

Hosting a Blogger Retreat with Lexi Lexi’s Clean Kitchen and Liz lemon bowl At a beautiful home in Watermill, New York. Lexi and I made two of her Charcuterie and Cheese Boards (gluten free and allergy friendly not pictured here). It comes with plenty of warm dips, sangria, wine, avocado shrimp salad, and a Southwestern black bean salad.

A charcuterie board, also known as a meat and cheese board, is a delicious and visually appealing way to serve a variety of meats, cheeses and garnishes for parties and snacks. Easy to assemble and can be customized for any occasion and dietary preference. Here’s how to make your own charcuterie board at home.

How to make a charcuterie board

1. Choose your meat and cheese – The most important part of the charcuterie board is the meat and cheese selection. Choose different textures and flavors to provide balance and interest. Options to consider include cured meats such as prosciutto, salami and chorizo, soft cheeses such as brie and camembert, and hard cheeses such as cheddar and gouda.
2. Add some accompaniment – A charcuterie board is more than just meats and cheeses. To add flavor and texture, consider adding garnishes such as olives, pickles, nuts, fruit, crackers or bread.
3. Arrange items on the board – Once you’ve selected your meats, cheeses and garnishes, place them on the board. Start by placing larger items, such as meats and cheeses, on the board first. Then fill in the gaps with a small accompaniment. Arrange items with the board’s visual appeal in mind, and use different heights, colors, and textures to create a cohesive and engaging display.
4. Serve and enjoy – Once the charcuterie board is assembled, it’s time to serve. Have a knife for slicing meats and cheeses and small plates or bowls for garnishes. Invite your guests to board and enjoy all the delicious flavors.

charcuterie board ideas

There are endless options for what to include on your charcuterie board. Here are some ideas to get you started.

• Cured meat: Prosciutto, Genoese salami, chorizo, sopressata, ham and cured sausage are all classic choices for the charcuterie board.
• cheese: Choose from a variety of textures and flavors. Some options are soft brie, burrata and camembert. Try cheddar, manchego, parmesan and gouda for solid cheese options. There are also creamier options such as creamy blue cheese and goat cheese. My personal favorite hard he cheese is Bella Vitano Merlot.
• accompaniment: Olives, pickles, cornices, nuts, baguette slices, bread sticks, and crackers are all great options. Adds flavor and texture to your charcuterie board.
• fruits: Choose fresh seasonal fruits such as grapes, raspberries, pears, figs, strawberries and raspberries. Alternatively, opt for dried fruits such as dried apricots and cranberries.
• Spreads and dips: Hummus, tapenade, and other spreads and dips can add flavor and variety to your board.
• vegetable: Roasted vegetables such as peppers, eggplant, and zucchini add color and flavor to the board.
• Specialty goods: Consider adding some unique or special items to your charcuterie board, such as homemade jams, honey or mustard.

The key to a successful charcuterie board is incorporating different flavors and textures and arranging the items in a visually appealing way. Experiment and have fun creating your own charcuterie board!

How to pronounce charcuterie board

The word “charcuterie” is pronounced “shahr-koo-tuh-ree.” The word “board” is pronounced “bawrd”. So the phrase “charcuterie board” is pronounced “shahr-koo-tuh-ree bawrd”.

Where did the charcuterie board come from?

Charcuterie is the art of cooking and serving cured meats. It comes from the French chair (meat) and cuit (cooking). A charcuterie board typically contains a variety of cured meats, cheeses, breads, and other accompaniments.It is popular in France, Italy, Spain, and the United States. In France, it is often served as an appetizer or snack with wine. Elsewhere, it may be served as part of a meal or as a snack or appetizer at parties or social events.

There really is an art to creating a photogenic, appetizing platter. A variety of colors and textures, a variety of meat and cheese options, and lots of fresh items are the keys to success. For smaller groups, use smaller boards or platters. If you make it this summer, I’d love to see it. If you tag @skinnytaste on Instagram, I’ll regram cute photos!