Have you ever had your heart set on building a charcuterie board only to be overwhelmed once you arrived at the supermarket? We’ve all been there. Today I’m going to break it down into snackable pieces for you and we’ll create a charcuterie board that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate! This how to build a charcuterie board guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the perfect serving board to curating a balanced and beautiful selection of treats. Let’s get to work!
Large Teak Serving Board | Banswara Bowl | Soapstone Bowl
Setting the Stage: The Board Itself
Your serving board is the foundation of your masterpiece. Consider what kind of mood you’re setting and how big your gathering is. One of my favorite pieces is the large teak serving board from Alice Lane Home. Paired with the banswara marble and soapstone bowls, this set up creates a stunning foundation. Choose a size that comfortably fits the amount of food you plan to serve, leaving enough space for artful arrangement.
The Accompaniments
Now, let’s talk about the supporting cast that will make your cheeses and meats shine!
- Fruits: Fresh seasonal fruits like grapes, berries, or sliced figs add pops of color and sweetness. Dried fruits like apricots, cranberries, or dates offer a delightful textural contrast.
- Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and Marcona almonds provide a satisfying crunch and a touch of healthy fats.
- Spreads/Dips: Jams, chutneys, and mustards add bursts of flavor and complement different cheeses. A simple honey drizzle adds a touch of elegance.
- Starches: Crackers in various shapes and textures are essential for building delicious bites. Consider rustic bread slices, breadsticks, or even thinly sliced baguette for a touch of variety.
Not pictured: red & green grapes; strawberries
The Cheese Selection
Here’s where the flavor party truly begins! Aim for a variety of textures and milk types for a well-rounded experience.
- Soft Cheeses: Think creamy Brie, decadent goat cheese, or a spreadable mascarpone.
- Semi-Soft Cheeses: Gruyere, Havarti, or Monterey Jack offer a delightful balance between smooth and firm.
- Hard Cheeses: Aged cheddar, Manchego, or Parmesan add a sharp bite and a salty contrast.
All of these cheeses are from Aldi. I also used an Aged White Cheddar and sliced it (not pictured here)
The Meat Selection
Cured meats add a savory dimension to your board. Choose 3-4 options with a mix of textures and flavors.
- Prosciutto: This thinly sliced Italian ham is a crowd-pleaser with its delicate and buttery taste.
- Salami: Explore different varieties like peppery Genoa salami, mild soppressata, or a smoky chorizo.
- Capocollo: This cured pork shoulder boasts a rich and complex flavor profile.
I opted to create a rose out of the sandwich pepperoni to add some interest to the board. You can do this by folding the slices over the rim of a drinking glass! I only ended up using one of the salami’s after this.
Putting It All Together: How To Build A Charcuterie Board
Now for the fun part – creating a visually stunning and delicious spread!
- Start with the Cheeses: Place your cheeses strategically around the board. Cut hard cheeses into wedges or slices,crumble softer ones, and arrange them in a visually interesting way.
- Fold in the Meats: Drape prosciutto slices elegantly, fan out salami slices, and arrange folded capocollo in a visually appealing manner.
- Fill the Gaps with Color and Texture: Scatter fruits, nuts, and dips throughout, leaving breathing room between elements.
- Carbs for the Win: Arrange crackers and bread slices in clusters or fan them out for easy grabbing.
- The Finishing Touches: Tuck in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a touch of fragrance. Drizzle honey over cheese or fruit for a touch of sweetness.
Remember, balance is key! Aim for a variety of colors, textures, and flavors. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with the arrangement. After all, the most important ingredient is the joy of sharing a delicious spread with loved ones!
What a presentation!! And delicious too!!!!