If you’re in the mood for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer, look no further than this small charcuterie board! It’s perfect for a party or gathering and can be customized to your liking.
Small charcuterie boards bring all the big flavors in a smaller package and are perfect for when you want all the flavor of a big board but without all the work.
Plus, they’re great for parties or gatherings where you want to provide a variety of options for your guests. And best of all, they’re really easy to make! Your guests will love this tasty treat, and you’ll love how easy it was to put together.
A small charcuterie board typically refers to a smaller-sized serving of charcuterie, which consists of a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and complementary accompaniments.
It is a popular option for smaller gatherings, intimate settings, or when you want to enjoy a variety of flavors without a large quantity of each item.
The size of a small charcuterie board can vary depending on the number of guests and the desired portion sizes. The idea is to create a well-balanced and visually appealing spread with a variety of flavors and textures.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This simple charcuterie board is a perfect appetizer for any party, gathering, or date night.
With some planning, you can create a delicious and visually appealing board.
This recipe is a great way to show off your culinary skills without any cooking involved.
This affordable charcuterie board is a great way to try new foods and flavors.
They are also a great way to get everyone involved in the meal and conversations as they always bring excitement to the table.
Key Ingredients
Here is a visual overview of the ingredients you will need for this recipe with step-by-step photos and tips below. If you are looking for a simple recipe card, scroll down to the bottom of this page.
Ingredient Notes
Cured meat – Choose a few types of cured meats to feature on your board. Popular options include sliced prosciutto, salami, coppa, or any other cured meats you prefer. Aim for a variety of flavors and textures.
Sliced cheese – Select a couple of different cheeses to complement the cured meats. Consider including a mix of soft, semi-soft, and hard cheeses. Some popular choices are brie, cheddar, gouda, goat cheese, or blue cheese. You can also include a spreadable cheese like goat cheese or a pâté.
Fresh Fruit – Fresh and dried fruits: Grapes, berries, sliced apples, or dried apricots are all good choices. Choose colorful seasonal fruits to make the best presentation.
Crackers -something hardy that can be used as a “scoop” for soft cheese or dip.
Extras – black olives, green olives
Feel free to customize your board with your preferred meats, cheeses, and accompaniments to suit your taste and preferences.
You’ll also need
A smaller board. Select a serving board or platter: Choose a small-sized board or platter that can accommodate your selected meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. Wooden boards or slate platters work well for a rustic and elegant presentation.
Small bowls for dips, spreads, and wet ingredients.
Remember to provide small cheese knives and serving utensils for guests. to help themselves.
Serving toothpicks.
How To Make a small charcuterie board
Creating a small charcuterie board is a delightful way to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a small charcuterie board:
Step 1. Gather ingredients. Begin by choosing a variety of your favorite meats, cheeses, and other ingredients that you think will go well together.
Step 2.Start with a base. Choose a small cutting wood board, serving platter, tray, or even a plate as your base.
Step 3. Arrange. Once you’ve gathered all of the ingredients you need, it’s time to start assembling your board. Start with crackers, and choose a couple of varieties to add to the board. Next, arrange sliced meats, cubed cheese, and grapes, and add bowls with olives. Arrange all ingredients on the board in an attractive manner. In general, start with the bigger pieces and work your way up to the smaller ones.
Step 4. Add some color. Once the meats and cheeses are in place, it’s time to add some color! Choose a variety of berries, fruits, or vegetables to add to the board. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Step 5. Garnish and decorate. Add a finishing touch by garnishing the board with fresh herbs, such as sprigs of rosemary or thyme, to add a pop of green and freshness. This step is optional but can elevate the presentation.
Step 6. Serve and enjoy. Once you have arranged everything on the board, your small charcuterie board is ready to be served. Encourage your guests to try different combinations of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments.
Meats for Charcuterie Board
When it comes to creating an epic charcuterie board, it all starts with choosing the right ingredients.
Sure, you could go to your local grocery store and grab whatever looks good, but if you really want to impress your guests, you’ll need to put in a little bit of extra effort.
Cured meats are typically very flavorful and tend to be on the dryer side.
Fresh meats, such as chicken or beef, can also be used, although they will not have as much flavor as cured meats.
There are many different types of meat that can be used to make a charcuterie board. It is important to consider both the flavor and the texture of the meat.
Some of the most popular options include:
Prosciutto: Thinly sliced, delicate, and slightly sweet, prosciutto is a classic choice for charcuterie boards. It pairs well with a variety of cheeses, fruits, and bread.
Salami: Salami comes in various types and flavors, such as Genoa salami, soppressata, or chorizo. Its savory and slightly spicy taste makes it a versatile addition to any charcuterie board.
Coppa: Coppa, also known as capicola, is a dry-cured Italian meat made from pork shoulder. It has a rich flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a delicious choice for charcuterie.
Chorizo: Chorizo is a spicy, seasoned sausage that adds a bold and robust flavor to a charcuterie board. It comes in both cured and fresh varieties, so choose according to your preference.
Pancetta: Pancetta is Italian cured pork belly that is similar to bacon but not smoked. It has a savory, salty flavor and a slightly fatty texture that can add depth to your charcuterie board.
Mortadella: Mortadella is a classic Italian deli meat made from finely ground pork. It is usually flavored with spices, such as black pepper and pistachios, and has a distinct flavor and a smooth texture.
The sky is the limit when it comes to choosing meats for your charcuterie board. Just be sure to choose a variety of meats that will please everyone’s taste buds.
Cheese for Charcuterie Board
When it comes to choosing cheeses for your charcuterie board, there are also many options.
The most popular soft-cheeses cheese choices for charcuterie boards include:
Brie: A creamy, mild, and slightly nutty cheese with a velvety texture.
Camembert: Similar to Brie, Camembert has a creamy texture and a slightly more pronounced flavor.
Goat Cheese: Known for its tangy and slightly acidic taste, it adds a refreshing element to a charcuterie board.
Cream cheese mixed with herbs.
Popular semi soft-cheeses cheese choices are:
Gouda: A versatile cheese with a smooth and slightly sweet flavor. It pairs well with both meats and fruits.
Havarti: Havarti is a creamy and buttery cheese that is mild in flavor, making it a crowd-pleasing option.
Fontina: This Italian cheese has a nutty flavor and melts beautifully. It complements cured meats nicely.
If you are looking for hard cheese, consider the following:
Cheddar: A classic choice with its sharp and tangy flavor. Opt for aged cheddar for a more pronounced taste.
Manchego: A Spanish sheep’s milk cheese with a distinct nutty and buttery flavor. It pairs well with cured meats.
Parmesan: Known for its salty and granular texture, Parmesan adds a bold and savory element to a charcuterie board.
Blue Cheeses varieties for mini charcuterie board:
Gorgonzola: A creamy and tangy blue cheese that adds a sharp and pungent flavor to the board.
Roquefort: This French blue cheese has a strong and complex taste with a crumbly texture. It pairs well with dried fruits and honey.
Fresh Cheeses:
Mozzarella: Soft and mild, fresh mozzarella adds a light and delicate element to balance the richness of cured meats.
Burrata: A decadent cheese with a creamy center, burrata pairs well with prosciutto and fresh tomatoes.
You can even skip the meat completely and create a small cheese board only using your favorite cheeses.
Extra Items for Your Charcuterie Board
When putting together your charcuterie board, it is important to start with a few basic components and then build from there.
In addition to meat and cheese, your charcuterie board should also include a variety of other items.
Crackers and bread
If you are looking for the best crackers for a charcuterie board, choose the following:
Baguette slices: Offer thin slices or crostini for a classic option.
Breadsticks: Both plain and flavored options are available.
Crackers: Include various types, such as pita crackers, sourdough bread toasts, sliced baguettes, mini breadsticks, and almond flour crackers.
Grissini: Italian breadsticks that add a crunchy texture.
Fruit
Fresh berries: Such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
Grapes: Both red and green grapes work well and add a touch of sweetness.Sliced apples or pears: Provide a crisp and refreshing element.
Dried fruits: Apricots, figs, or dates add a sweet and chewy contrast.
Nuts
Almonds: Opt for roasted, salted, or flavored varieties.
Walnuts: Their earthy flavor pairs well with a variety of cheeses and meats.
Pistachios: Offer a colorful and crunchy option.
Mixed nut assortments: Combine a selection of your favorite nuts for added variety.
Pickled vegetables
Assorted olives: Choose a variety of marinated olives, such as Kalamata, green, or stuffed olives.
Cornichons: These small, tangy pickles provide a briny and crunchy element.
Pickled vegetables: Add pickled onions, peppers, or radishes for a zesty twist.
Dips and spreads
They make everything taste even better! We love hummus, tzatziki, and even ranch dressing. Consider adding honey, fig jam, mustard, or other spreads to complement the flavors.
Mustard: Offer different types, such as Dijon, whole grain, or spicy varieties.
Honey: Provides a touch of sweetness that pairs well with cheese and meats.
Fig jam: Its sweet and savory flavor complements many kinds of cheese.
Tapenades: Olive tapenade or sun-dried tomato tapenade adds a burst of flavor.
Garnishes
To enhance the presentation and add a pop of color, you can garnish the board with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. It adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Fresh herbs: Sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or basil can add freshness and visual appeal.
Edible flowers: Nasturtiums, pansies, or violets can add a touch of color and elegance.
Additional Condiments
Balsamic glaze: Drizzle a small amount for a tangy and sweet accent.
Extra virgin olive oil: Offer a small bowl for dipping bread or drizzling over cheese.
Sea salt and black pepper: Provide small dishes for seasoning as desired.
Storing tips
Place the board on a plate or cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap. Be sure to press the plastic wrap down onto the surface of the board so that it is airtight. This will help to keep the meats and cheeses fresh for longer.
Then, place the board in the refrigerator and allow it to cool for at least an hour before serving.
If you’re not planning on serving the board right away, you can also store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a charcuterie board?
A charcuterie board is a type of appetizer that typically includes various meats, cheeses, and other savory items. These boards can be either small or large in size, and they are often served as part of a larger meal or as an hors d’oeuvre. Charcuterie boards can be customized. The amount and variety of ingredients that you include on your board will depend on your personal preferences and the number of people that you are serving.
Where does The Word “Charcuterie” Come From?
The word “charcuterie” comes from the French word for meat (charcutier), and it refers to the art of preparing and cooking meats. Charcuterie boards are often used as a way to showcase this art, as they allow for a variety of different meats and cheeses to be displayed in one place.
What size is a small charcuterie board?
The size of a small charcuterie board can vary depending on personal preference, the number of guests you’re serving, and the amount of food you want to include. However, as a general guideline, a small charcuterie board typically ranges between 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm) in diameter or width. This size is suitable for serving 1 to 2 people or as an individual portion.
How to make a cheap charcuterie board?
Look for sales or discounts at your local grocery store or deli. You can often find affordable options, such as store-brand or less expensive varieties, that still offer great flavor. Consider purchasing smaller amounts of a few different types of meats and cheeses to provide variety without overspending. Opt for fruits and vegetables that are in season, as they tend to be more affordable and flavorful. Look for affordable crackers, breadsticks, or plain baguette slices instead of gourmet options. Check your pantry for items that can be used as part of your charcuterie board.
Can I make a charcuterie board the night before?
While it’s best to assemble a charcuterie board as close to serving time as possible, you can certainly prepare some elements in advance to save time: pre-cut meats and cheeses: you can also prepare some of the accompaniments in advance. Keep them refrigerated in separate containers or resealable bags to maintain their freshness.
If you're in the mood for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer, look no further than this small charcuterie board! It's perfect for a party or gathering and can be customized to your liking.
Gather ingredients. Begin by choosing a variety of your favorite meats, cheeses, and other ingredients that you think will go well together.
Start with a base. Choose a small cutting wood board, serving platter, tray, or even a plate as your base.
Arrange. Once you've gathered all of the ingredients you need, it's time to start assembling your board. Start with crackers, and choose a couple of varieties to add to the board. Next arrange sliced meats, cubed cheese, and grapes, and add bowls with olives. Arrange all ingredients on the board in an attractive manner. In general start with the bigger pieces and work your way up to the smaller ones.
Add some color. Once the meats and cheeses are in place, it's time to add some color! Choose a variety of berries, fruits, or vegetables to add to the board. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
Serve at room temperature or chilled.To store: place the board on a plate or cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap. Be sure to press the plastic wrap down onto the surface of the board so that it is airtight. This will help to keep the meats and cheeses fresh for longer.
Natalia is a recipe developer, food photographer, and home cook. She started Flavorful Home to document her recipes and share home cooking tips. She loves creating flavorful and nutritious meals while keeping the cooking process simple and joyful!
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Welcome!
Hi there, I’m Natalia. I’m so glad you stopped by! Here you’ll find the most useful cooking tips and answers to food questions. I focus on creating simple recipes and making sure they are extra flavorful and worthy of your time! Browse our step-by-step recipes and explore new flavors!
