Keeping it Simple and Delicious
What is it about a charcuterie that draws us in? Is it the variety of foods or the colors? Perhaps it is the simplicity. We are not sure but we do know that we love it!
Gathering goodies from the pantry and the refrigerator can create a quick and easy plate of deliciousness any weeknight and a stop at the deli counter can add even more variety.
Here’s what we like:
Thinly sliced meats, both salty and sweet. Good choices include Italian meats like salami, soppressata, prosciutto, and pepperoni or you can also go more simply with Virginia ham and cocktail weenies.
A variety of mustards: dijon, country/grainy, spicy, yellow.
Anything that is pickled: carrots, red onions, okra, pickles.
Green olives, kalamata olives, Castelvetrano olives, Nicoise olives all add a special touch.
A wide variety of cheeses from the simple to the funky. Cheddar is the go-to for most of us because it is always yummy but try to branch out a bit to a super funky bleu or Roquefort.
Jellies, jams, and honey go well with funky cheeses.
Salted and unsalted nuts.
Fresh sliced strawberries, red and green apples, grapes, and raspberries.
Simple crackers or crostini.
Everything should be small enough to pick up and eat in just a bite or two.
Variety in texture and taste is the key to a fun and delicious charcuterie. Make sure you have some spice and some sweetness, along with some crunch and some smoothness.
Putting it all together or plating a charcuterie is very simple as long as you remember a few easy tips:
A large board, like a cutting board, or a tray make a lovely presentation.
Provide a knife or cheese slicer for each type of cheese.
Make sure you spread everything out for easy access for each guest.
Pile each item high on the board for a plentiful look.
Replenish each item as food is eaten.
Provide cute toothpicks and a “used” toothpick container so there’s no double dipping.
“Wet” foods, like fresh fruit, are best in a small bowl.
Of course, we think a charcuterie pairs best with a tasty beverage! Sparkling rose comes to mind but if you prefer a cold beer or a martini that works too!
The bottom line on charcuterie is to have fun with it! Use that tray from your grandma that is in the back of your cabinet and only comes out at Christmas. Include what you like but remember to try a few things you’ve never had before, maybe that is a stinky cheese, or a spicy mustard! SALUTI!
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