A beautifully arranged charcuterie board is the ultimate entertaining centerpiece for any gathering. It’s easy to assemble, endlessly customizable and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a small picnic, or just looking for a treat on a night in, here’s how to build a spread that looks as good as it tastes.
Start with Variety
Meats, cheeses and salty snacks are the basis for any good board. For meats, go for a mix: salty prosciutto, spicy soppressata and savory salami offer different flavors and textures. When choosing cheeses, layering colors, textures and flavors is key. Including a range of soft (like Brie), semi-firm (like Havarti) and hard (like aged cheddar or Manchego) offers something for everyone. Feeling more adventurous? Add some blue cheese for bold flavor. Crispy crackers add yet another texture element to keep the board interesting.
But even the best meats and cheeses are not complete without additional accompaniments. California Walnuts, like our Sriracha Honey Lime Walnuts, elevate any board with unique flavor and texture and satisfying crunch, while olives, pickles, or grainy mustard give a savory balance. Seasonal fruits like berries, figs or grapes balance salty with sweet and bring freshness and color. Don’t forget fresh herbs like sprigs of rosemary or thyme, which add fragrance and a touch of green.
Build it Like a Pro
No one wants to peel plastic off cheese or grab an olive directly from its jar. Use small bowls or ramekins for spreads and messy items. When it comes to assembling meats and cheese, arrange the cheeses first, then fan or fold meats around them. Try to create visual movement by curving lines of ingredients or forming an “S” shape across the board.
Make sure to distribute color evenly to keep the eye moving and fill any gaps with nuts, herbs or small fruit clusters, so the board feels abundant and intentional.
Equip the Board
Use cheese knives that suit each cheese type, and include mini forks, tongs or toothpicks for easy grabbing. For extra flair, add chalkboard signs or labels so guests know what they’re eating.
With a little thought and creativity, your charcuterie board will not only satisfy your guests, it’ll impress them.
