A Basic Guide to a Charcuterie Board

there’s something about a pretty charcuterie board that really lights me up inside. it’s my go-to app any time we have people over because there’s something for everyone + they’re so easy to throw together. i always try to keep some staple ingredients in my kitchen for those last minute visits. my favorite place to shop for charcuterie is definitely Trader Joe’s — their selection is by far one of the best! so today, i want to give you some basics that i’ve learned along the way that can help elevate your cheese board to a charcuterie board. (FYI, all the ingredients shown are from Trader Joe’s).

MEAT + CHEESE (2-3 each)

when it comes to meat + cheese, it’s your call. i usually go with 2-3 of each so you can try different combos. my favorite meats are prosciutto, salami + a summer sausage. and with cheese, my rule is to go for a couple different textures such as a creamy brie, a soft goat cheese + a hard cheddar.

CRACKERS (1-2)

nowadays there are so many types of crackers. i mean, just step into Trader Joe’s + you’ll see raisin rosemary crisps, pumpkin cranberry crisps, red chili crackers + the list goes on. i personally enjoy an easy entertainer cracker or a pepper + poppyseed cracker. i also love slicing a loaf of french bread + adding that into the mix. italian breadsticks are also a fun choice.

ADD-ONS (limitless)

i believe the add-ons are what makes it a true charcuterie board + it’s also the fun part. some common add-ons are:

fresh fruit (apple slices, pear slices, grapes, blueberries + pomegranates)
dried fruits (apricots, mejool dates, golden raisins)
nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, pistachios)
jams + spreads (fig spread, jam, hummus, mustard)
olives
cornichons
sweets (dark chocolate, salted caramel)
herbs — for decor + garnishes (rosemary, thyme, dill)