Breaking news! Charcuterie boards can be used for more than just the starting course at your party. In fact, they can be the center of your whole celebration. The great thing about charcuterie boards is that they can please just about anyone, and your guests can create all sorts of combinations to keep their experience enjoyable. You won't have to turn on the stove if cooking isn't one of your strongest skills.
While putting together a charcuterie board may seem overwhelming at first, it's actually pretty simple and enjoyable. That's why we have put together all sorts of tips to create the ultimate charcuterie board, perfect for your party.
What You Need
To throw a memorable charcuterie party, you’ll want to make sure you have the right setup and materials. A beautifully arranged serving board will be the centerpiece, showcasing your selection of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. Be sure to have napkins on hand for easy cleanup, along with wine glasses to elevate the experience. Spoons and knives will help guests serve themselves, while small plates can be provided as an option—though traditionally, charcuterie is enjoyed straight from the board. With these essentials, you’ll be well on your way to creating an inviting and stylish spread for your guests.
Materials
Gather these essential materials to set the stage for a seamless and stylish charcuterie experience.
- Serving board
- Napkins
- Wine glasses
- Spoons and knives
- Small plates (optional, charcuterie is typically served without plates)
What Goes On A Charcuterie Platter?
Charcuterie boards are platters that have all sorts of meats and cheeses, along with other accoutrements arranged in a variety of ways. How you put your platter together is totally up to you! Follow some of our suggestions to help you get some meat and cheese tray ideas.
Meats & Cheeses
When it comes to charcuterie board meats and cheeses, you'll want to hit three notes:
- Mild
- Medium
- Bold
Add a unique look to your meats and cheeses by cutting them into different shapes such as triangles or cubes. Also, vary their thickness so your guests have options and can fully enjoy every bite. Change up the style of your charcuterie platters by arranging slices horizontally, vertically, diagonally, or a combination of all. If you're using a circular platter, set up your meats and cheeses in a clockwise direction from mild to bold. With a rectangular or square board, align mild to bold meats and cheeses from left to right.
Be sure you have options available for everyone. Don't be afraid to have plain meats on your plate, these types of meats are perfect for guests who are unfamiliar with cured meats. If you're not quite sure what types of meats and cheeses you plan to serve, visit a specialty grocery store where they'll allow you to sample meats and cheeses so you can see which pairings you like best. You can also ask your guests what they prefer beforehand to prevent any food from going untouched.
Nuts
Here's a great cheese board idea - add nuts! Nuts offer a great contrast to the texture and taste of your cheeses. These are some of the most commonly used nuts:
- Pistachios complement the texture of creamy cheeses
- Almonds and walnuts add flavor to aged cheeses
- Pecans add sweetness to salty cheeses
You can place bowls of nuts on or near your charcuterie board, or use them to fill in the gaps between meats and cheeses.
Jams
Like meats and cheeses, you should also have different types of jams available for your guests. Jams add flavor and sweetness to balance the dry and salty meats and cheeses. Place jams in the center of your cheese board so that all your guests can access them. Also, add a small spoon or knife alongside your jams for guests to easily add a dollop of sweetness.
Fruits
While the main attraction of a charcuterie board and cheese platter should be the meats and cheeses, it is always smart to include fresh fruit to add a refreshing flavor to the salt and change the experience. Remember that the types of fruits you select should complement your meats and cheeses and match the aesthetic and color scheme you are going for. You can confine fruit to a certain board section or have them beautifully spread out. It's up to you!
Brine
Pickled vegetables, such as onions, pickles, olives, or jalapeños, can easily be paired with bold meats to add a tangy layer of flavor and spice up the flavors. Like jams, brined items can go in the center of the platter, but you can also have them just outside the platter if their containers are too big.
Bread & Crackers
While your guests can get along perfectly well without crackers or sliced baguettes, bread and crackers can be great for pairing various ingredients and can serve as vessels to make things less messy. Since they'll most likely be the first thing your guests pick up, bread and crackers go best along the edges of the board.
Wine & Beer
Depending on how formal your event is, wine or beer are typically served as refreshments for charcuterie and cheese. Pairing the right wine and beer with meat and cheese can enhance your overall tasting experience. An easy way to ensure you're correctly pairing these items is by pairing bold-flavored meats and cheeses with bold and mild-flavored meats and cheeses with mild-flavored drinks.
How To Make A Charcuterie Bouquet
A charcuterie bouquet is a unique and beautiful way to elevate your charcuterie display. Gather skewers or toothpicks to arrange your ingredients into small, flower-like clusters. You can use thin slices of meats, like salami or prosciutto, by folding them into petal shapes and adding small cubes of cheese, olives, or berries as colorful accents. Once each skewer is ready, arrange them in a cup or small vase for a visually appealing, edible bouquet. This creative presentation is perfect for guests to grab and enjoy, making your spread functional and stunning.
Single Serve Charcuterie
Single-serve charcuterie cups or plates are a fantastic way to offer individual portions, adding both convenience and a touch of elegance to your party. To make them, simply fill small cups, jars, or disposable plates with a mini selection of meats, cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruits. This setup keeps things organized and ensures everyone has their own personal tasting experience without needing to crowd around a single board. Plus, these portions are easy to customize to accommodate any dietary preferences or allergies among your guests.
How To Make A Charcuterie Christmas Tree
For a festive twist, try arranging your charcuterie items in the shape of a Christmas tree ! Start by placing a line of green herbs like rosemary as the “branches,” then layer various meats, cheeses, and berries along each branch to create a colorful, holiday-themed display. Add small star-shaped cheese slices or crackers at the top for a finishing touch. This themed presentation brings holiday cheer to your table and is sure to impress your guests while making your charcuterie spread the star of your seasonal gathering
What Are Some Good Non-Alcoholic Drink Pairings For A Charcuterie Board?
Non-alcoholic drinks like sparkling water, iced herbal teas, or fresh fruit spritzers pair wonderfully with charcuterie. Opt for sparkling or flavored water to help cleanse the palate between different flavors, or try a tart lemonade to balance out the richness of cheeses and meats. You can also create mocktails with fresh herbs, citrus, or berry infusions to bring added refreshment and elevate the tasting experience for guests who prefer alcohol-free options.
How Do I Keep My Charcuterie Board Looking Fresh Throughout The Party?
To keep your board looking fresh, periodically check and replenish it with extra meats, cheeses, or fruits you’ve set aside. Place a few backup items in the fridge that you can swap out if anything starts to wilt or dry out. Serving items like small plates and tongs can also help keep the board tidy, as guests won’t have to reach directly into the display, allowing the presentation to stay neat and inviting.
What Should I Do If Some Guests Have Dietary Restrictions?
If you’re aware of specific dietary restrictions, set up a smaller, separate charcuterie board or individual cups that cater to those needs. Include a variety of gluten-free crackers, dairy-free cheeses, or vegan-friendly items to ensure every guest has options. Labeling certain items or sections of the board can also help guests easily identify which choices are best for them.
Before You Dig In...
Before guests begin to dig in, take a minute to explain each type of snack and beverage you've laid out. A general rundown of each cheese, meat, and accoutrements will take a little bit of the guesswork out of making selections. Your guests will love figuring out which flavors and combinations they like best.
If you’re excited to throw your own charcuterie party but need a little help, we’re here for you! Reach out to us for expert advice, tips, and high-quality supplies to make your charcuterie experience unforgettable. Let us help you create the perfect spread that will wow your guests and make your party planning a breeze.
