When it comes to entertaining, a charcuterie board is a go-to for hosts. Whether it’s for a holiday party, a summer backyard BBQ, or a get-together with your friends, charcuterie boards are a great way to wow your guests!
Loaded with a variety of nuts, fruits, cured meats, cheese, crackers, and spreads, charcuterie boards offer something for everyone. This appetizer is also quick and easy to make as it requires no cooking and there is no end to the possible variations.
While charcuterie boards are quick and easy to make, it’s more than just tossing some meats, cheeses, and crackers on a board. It takes a little thought and strategy to build a charcuterie board that will showcase your hosting skill. Here are some of our best ideas about charcuterie boards and how to create one that will impress your friends and family!
How To Begin Your Charcuterie Board:
When it comes to charcuterie boards, the first thing you need is a board to create your design on.
You don’t need to buy a special board. A wood cutting board, serving tray, or any flat surface you have will work. Some of our favorite boards come from JK Custom Kindling and Werden’s Woodworking, two of our wonderful vendors from our Ag & Artisan Faire.
In addition to the board, you can add some small dishes to your board. Antique shops are a great place to get unique little bowls, plates, and serving pieces. Start arranging these pieces on your board and use them as a guide map of where things will go.
What to Add:
Now that your charcuterie board is mapped out it’s time to add the goodies! You can customize your charcuterie board however you like, but here is a list of some things that you can add:
- Cured meats
- A variety of cheeses
- Olives and other condiments – like Tillie’s Nevada’s Frog Balls and other products on our online store!
- Dried Fruits Nuts, and Fruits
- Crackers
- Slices of bread, like Liberty Food and Wine’s focaccia bread
- Spreads
- Honey, we like Misbeehaven Farm’s Lavender Infused Honey
- Jelly or Jam – you have to try the Strawbanero Jam from Misbeehaven Farm
- Herbs & Spices to sprinkle over your selections – check out Heart Rock Herb & Spice Co.’s Tahoe Seasoning Salt
When selecting items for your board, make sure to choose some things that will “pop” on your board. For example, strawberries, cherries, tomatoes, grapes, apple slices, and fresh herbs will bring more color and will help with presentation. Also, make sure you’re not placing too many like colors next to each other so that they stand out.
