Steps for the Perfect Summer Charcuterie

Do you envy the amazing charcuterie boards at your neighbor’s pool party? Or maybe you have tried to replicate Pinterest inspired charcuteries in the past and it turned out less than amazing (hello..it’s me). Whatever the case may be, these steps for the perfect summer charcuterie board will fix all of that!

Charcuterie boards have become HUGE over the last 5 years or so. There are so many variations… appetizer versions, meal boards, dessert charcuteries. If you catch yourself searching on Pinterest for some charcuterie inspo, it can quickly become daunting. What type of meat to choose, which shape cracker works best on your board, and don’t even get me started on the array of cheeses out there to choose from.

With so many options it can get overwhelming!

My goal by the end of this post is that you feel inspired and most importantly confident and proud to host your next get-together with the perfect charcuterie.

So, let’s get into it!

Tips for the perfect Summer Charcuterie

Cheeses: This is one of the most overwhelming ingredients for most people to choose. There are three types of cheeses that I start with when building a charcuterie board. A smoked cheese, a spicy cheese and sweet cheese component. These three will add the perfect array of flavors to any board- guaranteeing that there will be something for everyone. After you have those three picked out, feel free to add a mild flavored cheese, like cheddar, or a more strong flavor, like Gorgonzola. I also usually add a creamy cheese like my garlic-y whipped ricotta or warm Brie.

Meats: The meat part of a charcuterie is actually the hardest part for me to select. I am not a huge cured meat fan and this is obviously the most widely used ingredient on a charcuterie board. I like to start with a hard salami or good quality pepperoni. Then something more mild like thin sliced prosciutto. I also think it’s important to think of who your guests will be. Add other protein options to your charcuterie like smoked salmon or even chicken skewers from the grill in the summer time. People will appreciate the options!

Crackers and Breads: With all of the options for crackers in the supermarket, this is the easiest to select! I like to get different shapes; some large and some small. This is also a great place to be mindful of who will be noshing on your board. Maybe include a gluten free cracker option or even a soft crostini for people who don’t want the traditional cracker.

Extras: This is the most fun part! Layer ingredients in like spicy mustard or jams. Also, think of something vinegary like pickled artichokes or cornichons (crunchy baby pickles). I also like to add in fresh components to my board. Try adding some heirloom tomatoes in the summer or fresh sliced cucumber. Seasonal fruits like cherries or strawberries are also a nice addition. You may also want to add something crunchy like roasted pistachios or even a sweet nut mix.

The sky is the limit! If there is room on your board, add as many extras as you like.

Steps for making the perfect summer charcuterie

Step 1: Layer ingredients in that will be featured in bowls or ramekins. This could be your dipping sauces, nuts, or even some items that have a little liquid to them.

Step 2: Layer in the larger ingredients like blocks of cheese, proteins and crackers. I like to start on the edges of my board and work my way inwards.

Step 3: Fill it in! In the final step you can really play around and be creative with placements. I like to add in the pretty items at the end like loose fruit and veggies or even fresh cut flowers in the summer. Anything loose or free flowing is best to add in at the end.

Don’t forget spreaders and cheese knives when you serve your charcuterie!

When creating your charcuterie board remember to have fun! Food is suppose to be an enjoyable experience not only when eaten but it can also be a creative outlet.

Looking for more recipes to add to your charcuterie board?

Cold Whipped Ricotta with Garlic and Feta

Simple Strawberry Basil Goat Cheese

Calabrian Chili Cheese Bread