Why Make This Recipe
A charcuterie board is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together. Perfect for gatherings, dinner parties, or even a cozy night in, this board is a feast for the eyes and the palate. With bits of cheese, meats, fruits, and crunchy crackers, it invites everyone to snack, mingle, and savor great flavors. Plus, it’s simple to customize based on your favorite ingredients, making it a personal touch to any occasion.
How To Make A Charcuterie Board
Making a charcuterie board is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. The key is to mix textures, colors, and tastes. Here’s how to whip one up with ease.
Ingredients
- 1 Uncured Beef Summer Sausage
- 1 block Organic Valley® Grassmilk® Raw Cheddar Cheese
- 1 block Organic Valley® Raw Jack-Style Cheese
- 1 cup green olives
- 2 cups green grapes
- 1 cup raw broccoli
- 1 box organic crackers
Directions
- Start by slicing the summer sausage and cheeses into ¼-inch thick slices. This makes them easy to grab and enjoy.
- Place the olives in a small bowl and add it to your cheese board, cutting board, or platter.
- Now, arrange the sausage and cheese in an eye-catching way on the board.
- Don’t forget to add the grapes and broccoli. Make sure to leave a little space for the crackers.
- To keep everything fresh, wrap the board with plastic wrap and tuck it into the fridge.
- Before your guests arrive, take it out of the fridge and add the crackers for that perfect crunch!
How To Serve A Charcuterie Board
Serve your charcuterie board as a centerpiece at your gathering. Encourage guests to mix and match flavors as they build their own bites. A glass of wine or sparkling cider pairs beautifully with the range of flavors, setting a relaxed mood.
How To Store A Charcuterie Board
If you have leftovers, store any uneaten items in airtight containers. Keep the cheeses, meats, and crackers separate to maintain their freshness. You can combine them back onto the board for another snack later!
Tips to Make A Charcuterie Board
- Play with colors! Bright fruits and greens make your board pop.
- Include various textures, like creamy cheeses and crunchy crackers.
- Don’t shy away from adding nuts or spreads for an extra flavor punch.
- Keep it balanced with both savory and sweet items, so everyone finds something they love.
Variation
Feel free to get creative! Experiment with different meats, cheeses, and seasonal fruits. You can even add pickles, hummus, or dried fruits for unique twists on your charcuterie board.
FAQs
What is a charcuterie board?
A charcuterie board is a platter filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, fruits, and snacks, typically served as an appetizer. It’s designed to be shared, making it a great option for gatherings.
How can I customize my charcuterie board?
You can easily customize your charcuterie board by choosing your favorite cheeses, meats, and snacks. Add seasonal fruits, nuts, or dips to reflect your tastes or the theme of your gathering.
Can I make a charcuterie board ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your charcuterie board a few hours in advance. Just wrap it up and keep it in the fridge. Add any crackers just before serving for that fresh crunch.
What are the best meats to include on a charcuterie board?
Popular choices for charcuterie boards include salami, prosciutto, and summer sausage. You can choose based on your preferences or try out local delicacies for a unique touch.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to create a delightful charcuterie board, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start assembling! This dish is a wonderful way to share good food and create lasting memories with family and friends. I hope you find joy in the flavors and the connections they bring. For more inspiration, feel free to follow me on Pinterest and Medium!
Print
How To Make A Charcuterie Board
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A Charcuterie Board is a simple yet elegant way to bring people together. Filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers, it’s perfect for gatherings, dinner parties, or cozy nights at home. Customizable, colorful, and delicious, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients
- 1 Uncured Beef Summer Sausage
- 1 block Organic Valley® Grassmilk® Raw Cheddar Cheese
- 1 block Organic Valley® Raw Jack-Style Cheese
- 1 cup green olives
- 2 cups green grapes
- 1 cup raw broccoli
- 1 box organic crackers
Instructions
- Slice the summer sausage and cheeses into ¼-inch thick pieces for easy serving.
- Place the olives in a small bowl and set it on your serving board or platter.
- Arrange the sausage and cheese attractively on the board.
- Add grapes and broccoli for a burst of color and texture.
- Leave room for crackers and add them just before serving to keep them crisp.
- Wrap the board in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Before guests arrive, remove the wrap and add crackers for the perfect finishing touch.
Notes
Serve as a centerpiece for gatherings with wine or sparkling cider. Store leftovers in airtight containers, keeping meats, cheeses, and crackers separate. Experiment with colors, textures, and seasonal ingredients for variety. Add nuts, spreads, or dried fruits for extra flavor and fun!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
