How to Create a Stunning Cheese and Charcuterie Board for Your Next Event

Creating the Perfect Cheese and Charcuterie Board: A Hostess with the Mostest Guide

I started doing charcuterie boards in 2019 because I was craving Lunchables. Simple as that. I’ll enjoy one with my son from time to time, but not very “adult.” So at home with my husband, who at the time was my boyfriend, I started putting together an assortment of salami, prosciutto, cheddar, and brie cheese with some fig jam, honey, and crackers. Simple. He loved them, I loved them, they were perfect when we wanted to stay in and do a game night, or movie night in the early days o our relationship. Overtime, I started doing them for friends, girls nights, pool days, they became a signature item for when I hosted.

When it comes to hosting a gathering, there’s no better way to impress your guests than with a beautifully crafted cheese and charcuterie board. Not only does it provide a visually stunning centerpiece, but it also offers a delightful array of flavors and textures that can cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal affair, here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling a cheese and charcuterie board that will have your guests raving.

To be fair, there is not right or wrong way to do a board or a grazing table- I included a variety of photos from past boards and tables I have done for friends and family, and no two are the same. The best advice is to simply start placing items and let the creativity come later – there is no right or wrong way to display and enjoy a cheese and charcuterie board!

1. Choose Your Board Or Display

The first step is selecting the right board. You can use a large wooden cutting board, a marble slab, or even a large platter – you also don’t NEED a board. Butcher paper, and some tape on the surface of your choice, is always a fun option to create a grazing “table” – these tips would also apply! Make sure it’s big enough to accommodate all the elements without feeling overcrowded. If you’re using a wooden board, consider treating it with food-safe mineral oil to keep it in great condition.

**Food for Thought** Is this going to be the only food at your event? Will this be the light bites before the meal? Or is this part of a selection of items for guests to choose from? These are good things to think about when considering the size of your board or grazing table.

2. Select Your Cheese

Variety is key when it comes to cheese. Aim for a balance of flavors and textures by including:

Soft Cheese: Think Brie or Camembert. These cheeses are creamy and rich, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Semi-Hard Cheese: Cheddar, Gouda, or Gruyère work well here. They provide a nice contrast to the softer cheeses.
Blue Cheese: For those who enjoy a bit of sharpness, include a wedge of Roquefort or Stilton.
Aged Cheese: Parmesan or Asiago adds a nutty, complex flavor.

Arrange the cheeses on your board with enough space between each to avoid mixing flavors. You can cut some into slices or wedges, and leave others whole with a cheese knife for guests to serve themselves.

**Tip** Add label to the cheeses for guests to know what is is they are grabbing, just in case they have a preferences or are new to the cheese life!

3. Curate Your Charcuterie

For the charcuterie, choose a mix of cured meats. Aim for variety in both flavor and texture:

Salami: A classic choice with its spicy, robust flavor.
Prosciutto: This thinly sliced ham adds a touch of elegance and saltiness.
Serrano Ham: Another delicious option with a slightly different flavor profile than prosciutto.
Chorizo: For a bit of spice and smoky flavor.

Arrange the meats in overlapping slices or rolled up for an appealing presentation.

4. Add Fresh and Dried Fruits

Fruits provide a sweet contrast to the salty and savory elements on your board. Include a mix of fresh and dried fruits:

Fresh Fruits: Grapes, apple slices, figs, or pears are excellent choices.
Dried Fruits: Apricots, dates, and cherries add a chewy texture.

Arrange the fruits around the cheese and meats, keeping colors and shapes in mind for a visually appealing presentation.

5. Include Nuts and Olives

Nuts and olives add a crunchy and briny element to your board:

Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, or cashews work well. They’re perfect for snacking and provide a satisfying crunch.
Olives: A mix of green and black olives adds a savory component. Consider adding some marinated olives for extra flavor.

Place them in small bowls or directly on the board, depending on your preference.

**Tip** I personally do not like to add nuts directly on my boards unless I know for a fact, that there is no nut allergy among my guests. If you are not sure of your guests’ allergies, I advise to put the nuts in separate containers away from the board/table to be considerate of any allergies. Be sure to consult your guests before your event if this is something you are unsure about.

6. Choose Your Condiments

Condiments elevate the flavors and add variety to your board. Include:

Mustards: Grainy or spicy mustard pairs well with both cheeses and meats.
Chutneys or Jams: Fig jam or apple chutney complements cheeses beautifully.
Honey: A drizzle of honey over blue cheese or aged cheese can be a delicious treat.
- I love offering truffle honey as an option. A fun was to elevate the board.

Use small bowls for the condiments and place them strategically on the board.
**Tip** I like to use bowls that are different colors to add some dimension to the board.

7. Add Bread and Crackers

Provide a variety of bread and crackers for guests to enjoy with the cheese and charcuterie:

Baguette Slices: Freshly sliced or toasted, they’re perfect for spreading cheese.
Artisan Crackers: Look for a range of textures, from crispy to hearty.
Breadsticks: Thin, crunchy breadsticks add a fun element.

Arrange the bread and crackers in a way that they’re easily accessible but don’t overwhelm the board.

8. Garnish and Final Touches

To add a touch of elegance, consider garnishing your board with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Edible flowers can also add a pop of color. Make sure everything is neatly arranged, and fill any empty spaces with small items like nuts or fruits to ensure the board looks full and inviting.

**Tip** This is usually the part of the assembly that I will add little tongs and forks or cheese knives for guests to use as well.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your cheese and charcuterie board with a selection of wines or beverages that complement the flavors. A light, crisp white wine works well with most cheeses, while a robust red can stand up to the stronger flavors of cured meats.

Encourage your guests to mix and match flavors, and enjoy the conversation and camaraderie that comes with sharing a delicious and visually stunning spread.

With these tips, you’ll create a cheese and charcuterie board that’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight and instagram worth! That will impress your guests and make your event memorable. Happy hosting friends!