An aesthetically pleasing charcuterie board is the perfect appetizer for any gathering this holiday season. Whether you’re getting together with family or having a night in with friends, showing up with the perfect charcuterie board will have everybody grabbing for a bite. Creating a charcuterie board can be a bit intimidating, and you may not know where to start. No need to worry VALLEY has you covered with a guide to making charcuterie boards a bit less overwhelming.
Cheeses
A selection of tasty cheeses is an essential first step. Using a blend of both soft and firm cheese to mix up the textures will guarantee a successful board for your gatherings. Brie, gouda, swiss and sharp cheddar are a few quality kinds of cheese that will start off your charcuterie board in the best ways possible.
Meats
After establishing your cheeses, the next step is adding a variety of thinly sliced meats. Carefully placing and rolling them throughout the board will add a creative twist and appeal to your guests. If you’re feeling extra creative, don’t be afraid to create a rose out of pepperoni or salami by folding each slice over a wine glass and allowing it to set. If you aren’t sure which meats to use, prosciutto, salami and pepperoni are always a hit.
Sweets
There are an endless amount of options to choose from when it comes to adding those sweet bites to a charcuterie board. Fruits such as figs, dried apricots and grapes are the perfect addition of sweetness. Candied pecans, almonds and peanuts are another must-have addition by adding the right amount of sweetness and pleasing appearance to the board.
Spreads
Apricot, fig and strawberry preserves are a great spread idea that your guests can add to their cheeses. If you want to take a more savory route, olive oil or hummus are ways to spice up your board and they go perfectly with any selection of meats and cheeses.
Breads and Crackers
These varieties of cheeses, meats, sweets and spreads need something they can be paired on top of. Finishing off your charcuterie board with a wide variety of bread and crackers is the final step in creating a charcuterie board for your next gathering. A sliced baguette, crispy crackers and thin breadsticks will complete the final product.
Decided to use these tips and create a charcuterie board masterpiece? Tag us, @VALLEYmag, on Instagram and show us your beautifully decorated charcuterie boards that you brought to your next holiday gathering.
