Tips On Making An Impressive Cheese And Charcuterie Board!

I love having friends and family over for a glass of wine and visiting.  I used to just throw out some cheese and crackers and call it good but I wanted to step it up a notch so I started experimenting with putting together a cheese and charcuterie board.  It is fun making it look “pretty” and trying different cheeses and meats.  Adding layers and variety is key and stepping outside of the box to try something new is when you make things more memorable.  I put together a list of tips to help you have a easy and impressive cheese and charcuterie board.

1.)  Start with a wide variety of cheeses.  You may want to include a parmesan or hard cheese, a creamy brie or soft cheese spread and something more pungent like a blue cheese.  I also like to have an odd number of cheeses because odd numbers make the presentation look more appealing.

2.) I would then layer in some meats such as a prosciutto and then a pate’.  You may want to add a grain mustard to lightly spread with them.  Mixing things up and trying something new is what it is all about.

3.) You can then add breads such as small slices of baguette bread.  I also love chips, crisps and crackers.  I like to add a few to the plate or you can have a cute bowl next to your platter.

4.) Add something fruit-like.  Sweet fig jams, grapes and green apple slices are always welcome when mixed with cheese or meats.  I love American Spoon.  They have some of the best choices and they are from Michigan.  You can order online and they have the best inspirations!

5.) I love to mix in something salty such as nuts.  Cashews and almonds are always a favorite and I like putting them in a tiny dish.  They have some great selections at Crate and Barrel.

6.) Make sure to serve the cheese at room temperature and have a knife for each cheese or spread.  This way you will not mix the flavors.

7.) Aesthetics are important and I love using a white platter and then layer it with cheese paper.  I got mine from the Iron Grate but you can find them at a local deli or even Walmart.

8.) If you have a fun napkin or a linen it always adds a special touch.  I use whatever I have handy and try and keep at least a fun set of napkins on hand.  As a matter of fact, my grandma used to have a drawer at her house that had all kinds of napkins from fancy, special occasion to funny ones.  I have started a drawer in my kitchen with napkins now too.

I put one together recently when I hosted a whiskey tasting ladies night.  I’d love to see photos of what kind of cheese and charcuterie board you put together.  Whatever you decide to do, mix it up, have fun and mostly enjoy the time you are having with your guests!