There’s something magical about a well-crafted cheese and charcuterie board. It’s elegant, unfussy, and perfect for entertaining—whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or just enjoying a casual wine night with friends. With a beautiful mix of cheeses, cured meats, fresh and dried fruit, spreads, and crunchy bits, every bite offers something different. Best part? No cooking involved!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No cooking required – Just assemble and serve.
- Versatile & Customizable – Works for small hangouts or large gatherings.
- Instagram-worthy – A stunning display of color, texture, and flavor.
- Perfect for holidays, date nights, or happy hour.
How to Make a Cheese & Charcuterie Board
Choose Your Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Cheeses (pick 3–5 types):
- Aged: Sharp cheddar, Manchego
- Soft: Brie, Camembert, goat cheese
- Blue: Gorgonzola, Roquefort
- Semi-soft: Gouda, Havarti
- Fresh: Mozzarella balls, ricotta (in a small bowl)
Charcuterie (3–4 types):
- Prosciutto
- Salami (spicy or mild)
- Soppressata
- Chorizo
Accompaniments:
- Fresh fruit: Grapes, apple slices, figs, berries
- Dried fruit: Apricots, cranberries, dates
- Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, Marcona almonds
- Crackers & bread: Baguette slices, artisan crackers, breadsticks
- Spreads: Fig jam, honey, whole grain mustard, olive tapenade
- Pickled bites: Cornichons, olives, pickled onions
Assembly Instructions
- Start with the cheeses – Place them evenly around the board. Pre-slice hard cheeses or include a knife.
- Add the meats – Fold or roll slices and fan them around the cheeses.
- Fill in with bowls of spreads or pickles.
- Add fruits and nuts in small clusters for pops of color.
- Finish with crackers and breads, filling in any gaps.
- Garnish with herbs like rosemary or thyme for flair.
Storage Information
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2–3 days.
- Reheating: Not necessary—just bring items to room temperature before serving again.
Variations to Try
- Mediterranean board: Add hummus, feta, pita chips, stuffed grape leaves.
- Sweet board: Add chocolates, candied nuts, fruit preserves.
- Vegan board: Swap cheeses with vegan alternatives and use marinated tofu or tempeh.
Tips & Notes
- Let cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving—it boosts flavor.
- Use a large wooden or slate board for presentation.
- Label cheeses with cute tags or flags if you like.
FAQ
1. How much cheese per person?
Plan on 2–3 oz of cheese and 1–2 oz of charcuterie per person.
2. Can I make the board ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble 1–2 hours ahead and cover with plastic wrap in the fridge. Bring to room temp before serving.
3. What wine pairs well?
- Red: Pinot Noir, Merlot
- White: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay
- Sparkling: Prosecco or Champagne
Nutrition Information (Per Person, Estimated)
- Calories: 450–600 kcal (depends on portion and ingredients)
- Total Fat: 30g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 20–25g
- Sodium: Moderate to high due to cheeses and meats
Required Tools & Equipment
- Large serving board or platter
- Small bowls (for jams, olives, etc.)
- Cheese knives
- Tongs or toothpicks
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: None
Rest Time: 30 minutes (for cheese to warm up)
Total Time: ~45 minutes
This cheese and charcuterie board is always a hit. Play around with flavors, textures, and colors—and don’t stress too much about perfection. It’s meant to be enjoyed, shared, and devoured!
