Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This summer charcuterie board is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. The creamy brie, tangy blue cheese, and nutty pecorino offer a variety of tastes, while the rich and savory meats like salami and bresaola balance the lighter, sweeter options. Fresh, seasonal fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and cherries provide bursts of sweetness, while vegetables like charred asparagus and crunchy radishes add freshness and bite. The addition of dips like beetroot hummus and pesto, paired with a selection of crackers and nuts, ensures there’s something for everyone. Not only does this board offer a wide range of flavors, but it also allows for easy customization based on dietary preferences and available ingredients.

Ingredients

Cheeses (See note 1)

3.5 oz brie (100g)
3.5 oz manchego (100g)
3.5 oz blue (100g)
3.5 oz pecorino (100g)

Meats (See note 2)

3.5 oz salami (100g)
3.5 oz bresaola (100g)

Dips and Preserves (See note 3)

3.5 oz beetroot hummus (100g)
3.5 oz pesto (100g)
3.5 oz babaganoush or tzatziki (100g)
3 oz chutney or jam (80g)

Fruit

½ punnet blueberries
½ punnet raspberries
½ punnet strawberries
5 oz cherries (about 1 cup / 150g)
1 large bunch of seedless grapes (green or red)
1 large kiwi fruit, sliced in half through the middle in a zigzag pattern
1 large fig, sliced in half lengthways

Vegetables

2 bunches asparagus, pan-fried in olive oil for 5-6 minutes to char slightly, then leave to cool
1 bunch Dutch carrots, washed and trimmed
2 bunches cherry tomatoes on the vine
1 bunch radishes, washed and trimmed

Pickles

5 large dill pickles
½ cup olives

Crackers

½ pack round crackers
½ pack lavosh crackers
½ pack pita chips/crackers
½ baguette, sliced into rounds

Dried Fruit and Nuts

½ cup roasted macadamias
½ cup roasted almonds or walnuts
1 small fruit log, sliced (or ½ cup dried almond/figs)

Other Additions

Edible flowers to scatter for decoration
Herbs like rosemary and thyme to scatter for decoration

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Slice the cheeses, meats, and fruits into bite-sized portions. Slice the baguette into rounds and arrange the crackers neatly. Wash and trim the vegetables and fruits, such as the grapes, carrots, radishes, and asparagus.
Arrange the Board: Start by placing the largest items on the board, such as the cheese wedges, meats, and the bread. Arrange them in various sections around the board, ensuring there’s enough space between each item for easy access.
Add Dips and Preserves: Place the dips, such as beetroot hummus, pesto, and babaganoush, in small bowls or ramekins on the board. Position them near complementary ingredients, such as hummus by the carrots and pesto near the cheeses.
Fill in the Gaps: Next, fill the spaces with fresh fruits, vegetables, pickles, and olives. Place the blueberries, raspberries, cherries, and strawberries in one corner, and arrange the grapes, kiwi, and figs in another. Scatter the asparagus, radishes, and cherry tomatoes around the board.
Add Crackers and Nuts: Place crackers and nuts around the board. You can either arrange them in neat rows or pile them casually for a more relaxed look. Sprinkle roasted macadamias, almonds, and dried fruits in between the other items.
Garnish: To finish, scatter a few sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme across the board for a fragrant touch. If you’re using edible flowers, place them on the board for added color and elegance.
Serve and Enjoy: Once your charcuterie board is arranged, serve immediately. Make sure to have small utensils and napkins on hand for easy enjoyment!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes (no cooking required)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the meats and increase the variety of cheeses, fruits, and vegetables. You can add more hummus or veggie-based dips like guacamole.
Vegan Option: Use vegan cheeses and substitute hummus for dips like guacamole or baba ghanoush. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free crackers or replace crackers with sliced gluten-free bread.
Additional Toppings: Add smoked salmon, prosciutto, or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers. The cheeses should be wrapped tightly, and the fruits and vegetables should be kept in separate containers to avoid wilting.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat the charcuterie board. It’s meant to be served at room temperature.

FAQs

How far in advance can I prepare the charcuterie board?

You can prepare the board up to 4 hours in advance. However, it’s best to add fresh fruits and crackers just before serving to maintain their crispness.

Can I use different fruits?

Absolutely! You can use any fresh seasonal fruits such as pears, apples, or figs. Just make sure they complement the cheeses and meats you choose.

What is the best way to serve charcuterie?

Serve the charcuterie board with small plates, napkins, and utensils. Encourage guests to try different combinations of cheeses, meats, fruits, and dips for a fun tasting experience.

How do I prevent the fruit from turning brown?

To prevent fruits like apples or pears from browning, coat them lightly with lemon juice before placing them on the board.

Can I make the dips ahead of time?

Yes, all dips like hummus, pesto, and babaganoush can be made 1-2 days in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge.

Can I add more meats?

Definitely! Feel free to add more cured meats such as prosciutto, chorizo, or coppa for added variety and richness.

What type of crackers should I use?

Use a variety of crackers for different textures—round crackers, lavosh, pita chips, and baguette rounds offer the perfect balance of flavors.

How do I make the charcuterie board look more appealing?

Play with color! Include a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and use small bowls for the dips to create a more organized and appealing layout.

Can I use store-bought dips?

Yes, store-bought dips work just as well for a quick and easy option. Just be sure to choose high-quality ones for the best flavor.

Can I make a charcuterie board for a smaller group?

Absolutely! Simply adjust the quantities of ingredients based on the number of people you’re serving.

Conclusion

Crafting the perfect summer charcuterie board is all about balance. With a variety of cheeses, meats, dips, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, you’re guaranteed to create an eye-catching and flavorful spread. This board is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering, a holiday celebration, or a picnic. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can turn an ordinary snack into an extraordinary feast. Enjoy!