Here’s the truth. As much as I am a creative, I have zero artistic talent. Zilch. Nada. Give me a charcuterie board as a canvas, however, and I’m ready to channel my inner Picasso. So when my insanely talented neighbor asked me to create a charcuterie board for a gathering at her home; I was ready to get to work. Building a charcuterie board can be intimidating, but it can also be broken down so that anyone can accomplish the goal by following a simple formula. I’ve detailed how to make a charcuterie board with a simple, easy to follow formula below.
theCollarfind’s Charcuterie Cheat Sheet
1️⃣ Start with the cheese. You need three cheeses on a board. Think hard, soft and statement. Take them out 2 hours before serving,and have the hard cheese already sliced for ease.
Some of my favorites include: Unexpected Cheddar (TJ’s), Thousand Day Old Gouda TJ’s) , Truffle Cheese, Brie, Goat Cheese, Wine soaked cheese, Smoked Gouda.
2️⃣ Meat – The more guys at the party, the more meat you need on your board. I generally roll up salami and serve proscuitto. Buy an assortment pack and place on opposite sides of the board.
3️⃣ Crackers– 2 kinds. Use a typical cracker and then one that’s a little different like a fig cracker.
4️⃣ Color– Grapes, figs cut in half, pomegranates cut in half (for looks), carrots, use what you have on hand to add some color to the board! You can use a pumpkin in the center for the fall, like I did below.
5️⃣ Add a little something extra: Pickled okra, nut mix, fig preserves, Honey in a small container, spicy mustard, popcorn…you name it! Get creative and have fun by changing it up every time. You can garnish with rosemary or edible greenery.
theCollarfind tip:
One stop shopping for your edible items for the best price: TraderJoe’s and Costco. Build the board by placing like items on opposite sides, and move thinsg aroudn until they fit right. Start with your space takers and use the fillers at the end. Don’t overcrowd the board, it makes it harder to see what’s available as well as increases the chance of people touching the items. You can always add as the night goes on.
Now that the main course is handled, I’ve attached some charcuterie board essentials that will help you be prepared. From the boards to the cheese knives, fancy spreads you can use and everything in between. Are all available on @liketoknow.it.
Charcuterie for two! The boards don’t have to be huge. I’ve never served the same one, because I never know what I will have on hand!
Who am I? Just a southern momma that loves a good find, a great recipe, home decor and of course a bargain! For more fun finds: https://www.instagram.com/thecollarfind/.
