Hosting can be overwhelming—from cleaning to cooking and getting dressed up, prep can often be a full-day affair. If you’re hosting a smaller group, a charcuterie board is a great way to keep your guests happy without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these steps to create a stunning and delicious charcuterie board!
Step 1: Select a Variety of Ingredients
The key to a stellar charcuterie board is variety and balance. Offering a mix of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments ensures there’s something for everyone and keeps your guests snacking.
Tips:
- Choose a diverse selection of sliced meats, like prosciutto, salami, chorizo, or pâté.
- Opt for various types of cheeses:
- Soft: Brie, Camembert
- Semi-soft: Gouda, Havarti
- Hard: Cheddar, Manchego
- Blue cheese for bold flavour
- Add complementary elements like crackers, dips, olives, pickles, nuts, honey, fresh fruit (grapes, figs), and spreads (mustard, jam) to enhance the board’s flavours.
Step 2: Arrange Your Larger Items
The base you use dictates the style of your board. A wooden board, slate, or marble surface provides a rustic or elegant look. Start by placing your larger items strategically around the board.
Tips:
- Arrange meats in rolls or folds for a visually appealing display.
- Cluster items together rather than spreading them out evenly for a full, abundant look.
Step 3: Layer Your Smaller Items
Fill in the gaps with smaller items like nuts and berries, alternating colours, textures, and shapes for visual appeal.
Tips:
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added fragrance, colour, and texture.
- Use edible flowers, colourful crackers, or breadsticks for extra flair.
Step 4: Serve with Style
Provide small knives or spreaders for cheeses and condiments, and use separate utensils for each item to prevent flavour mixing. Serve cheeses at room temperature for the best taste and keep perishable items chilled until serving.
Most importantly, have fun! To make your board even more unique, try these delicious homemade additions:
Pear and Brie French Toast
This bite-sized, sweet-and-savory delight is crispy, bright, and ready in just 14 minutes.
Tip: Place these bites in a separate section to highlight them.
Curried Egg and Bacon Dip
A smoky, creamy, make-ahead dip that pairs perfectly with crackers and veggies.
Tip: Serve in a small bowl or ramekin for easy access.
Classic Devilled Eggs
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser with topping variations for extra intrigue.
Tip: Arrange in a circular pattern or neat line for a polished look.
Devilled BLT Egg Sliders
For extra pizzazz, try these sliders with double-smoked bacon, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato.
