Charcuterie boards delight guests pre-meal

A charcuterie board is a staple during the holidays. Featuring an array of different food items, like various cheeses and fruits, this appetizer is bound to be a crowd pleaser at any holiday gathering.   

A traditional charcuterie board usually consists of dried meats, like salami or prosciutto, various hard and soft cheeses, such as gouda and brie, an assortment of crackers or breadsticks, and finally a dried or fresh fruit, most commonly, grapes. They are versatile and creative. There are no limits to creatively arranging your board. Options include a dessert board, a Mediterranean-esque board with various types of hummus, veggies, and crackers, or even a candy board for an elevated at home movie night. The possibilities are endless. Basically, it’s your very own edible art project. 

To begin your spread, plan your ingredients and theme. Start by perusing Pinterest for some inspiration on the theme and arrangement ideas for your board. I chose to take the classic route, and I made a shopping list with all the ingredients for a traditional charcuterie board. I then ventured to the grocery store to gather my items to  assemble my board.