Holiday Charcuterie Board

Ingredients

Meats

• Prosciutto

• Salami (sliced or rolled)

• Soppressata

• Chorizo

• Capicola

• Any specialty cured meats (e.g., Bresaola, Jamón Ibérico)

Cheeses

• Hard cheese (e.g., aged cheddar, Parmesan, Manchego)

• Soft cheese (e.g., Brie, Camembert, goat cheese)

• Semi-soft cheese (e.g., Gouda, Havarti, Gruyère)

• Blue cheese (e.g., Gorgonzola, Roquefort)

Accompaniments

• Fresh fruits (e.g., grapes, apple slices, berries, figs)

• Dried fruits (e.g., apricots, cranberries, dates)

• Nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pistachios)

• Crackers and breads (e.g., baguette slices, breadsticks, flatbreads)

• Pickles and olives (e.g., cornichons, Castelvetrano olives, Kalamata olives)

• Spreads (e.g., fig jam, honey, mustard, hummus)

• Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme) for garnish

Equipment

• Large wooden or marble board

• Small bowls for spreads or loose items (e.g., olives, pickles)

• Cheese knives and serving utensils

Directions

1. Select a large, flat surface such as a wooden cutting board, marble slab, or a food-safe serving tray. Ensure it fits the size of your group.

2. Slice or portion cheeses and meats. Roll or fan out slices for visual appeal.

   Wash and dry fresh fruits. Slice fruits that tend to oxidize (e.g., apples) just before serving to avoid browning.

   Portion spreads into small bowls and set aside.

3. Place the cheeses first, spaced evenly around the board. Leave each cheese in its block or wedge form with a knife for serving.

4. Arrange the meats around the cheeses in creative patterns. Roll or fold them for added texture and visual interest.

5. Add small bowls of olives, pickles, jams, honey, or mustard. Spread them out across the board to encourage movement.

6. Add fresh and dried fruits next, distributing them evenly across the board. Sprinkle nuts in small clusters around the meats and cheeses.

7. Place crackers, breadsticks, or sliced baguette in the remaining open spaces. If using toasted bread or crackers that don’t fit on the board, place them on a separate plate for easy access.

8. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and aroma. Ensure everything looks balanced and inviting

9. Provide napkins, plates, and any necessary serving utensils.

   Tips:

   Balance flavors and textures: Include a variety of salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy items.

   Consider dietary preferences: Offer vegetarian options or label items containing nuts.

   Portion wisely: Plan for about 2 ounces of meat and cheese per person.

   Seasonal touches: Incorporate seasonal fruits or garnishes (e.g., pomegranates for winter, fresh berries for summer).