Random Fodder

How To Build The Perfect Charcuterie Board

March 28, 2018

Whether you’re planning a dinner party, a holiday soiree, or just having friends over, every party is made better with a charcuterie board! They’re easy to put together and always a crowd-pleasing hit. Here are some tips for how to put together the perfect charcuterie board.

This little slice of heaven brought to you by Elise Devoe

Pick Your Cheeses.

Everyone loves cheese! Pick 2-3 different varieties for a well-rounded tray. Brie, cheddar, Swiss and smoked Gouda are most-loved choices. Either leave the blocks whole for guests to cut themselves, or cut the cheese into triangles, or rectangles for easy grabbing.

Choosing Your Meats


A variety of salamis make for an excellent tray. Try Meatcrafters Skinny Salamis or Artisan Salamis for a perfect pairing, as their salamis, cured meats, and sausages are made for charcuterie lovers everywhere! Other good options include prosciutto, dry-cured chorizo, or a capicola. Aim to have an equal distribution of meats and cheese on your tray.

Don’t Forget the Extras!

Dried nuts and fruits, such as almonds, pecans, dried apricots and pitted dates add a bit of pizazz. Tangy options, such as pickles and olives work well too.

Carbs

Italian rustic bread, focaccia or a French baguette would be good possibilities. Cut some slices and place in a basket nearby. Or simply open a box of ritz crackers or saltines for guests to enjoy.

Arrangement

Last, but not least, arrange your items on a platter. Leave room between each item for a visual appeal. Use the extras to space out the meats and cheeses. If you’re feeling lost, you can look to Pinterest for a plethora of party platter arrangement options.

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  • Meg Taylor March 28, 2018 at 3:46 pm

    These are such great tips! Seriously, I can’t even tell you my favorite part of a board – I love everything from the cheese (duh!!) to the bread and little extras. I see my favorite crackers from Trader Joe’s on that second board!

    Meg, Borrowed Heaven

  • Coastal Kelder March 28, 2018 at 4:00 pm

    Love a good charcuterie board, but gotta leave the nuts off! I die a little inside when the nuts are sprinkled around one at parties bc I can’t eat any of it or would actually die..