THE ART & EASE OF THE CHARCUTERIE
CHARCUTERIE: Don’t let the fancy-name fool you, charcuterie (shaar.koo.tuh.ree) is simply a selection of cured meats presented on a food-friendly, flat surface. Add some cheeses, fruits, veggies, nuts and spreads and you have a well-balanced meal without the commitment of a full-on, sit down dinner. It’s quick, easy, adaptable and the best part, no culinary skills are required. Here are some insider tips for the perfect presentation, every time.
THE ART & EASE OF THE CHARCUTERIE BOARD
THE ART OF THE CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Meats: Choose 2 or more cured meats with different textures. A mix of Genoa salami, spicy sopressata and prosciutto create a well-rounded, interesting variety.
Cheeses: Try cheeses in three basic categories: firm, like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano; soft, like goat, brie or buffalo mozzarella; and bold like blue, Gruyere, gorgonzola.
Fruits and veggies: Opt for seasonal & colorful. Think fresh, red strawberries, orange carrots, yellow peppers and green grapes. Figs and pomegranates are delicious and aesthetically pleasing seasonal options. Dried apricots, dates and dried mangoes are favorite standbys.
Crackers & breads: Choose crackers with an interesting texture that offer a nice crunch. For bread, a baguette is the perfect size and shape.
The extras: olives, pickles, a sampling of spreads and a selection of nuts (Marcona almonds are a crowd-pleasing favorite).
THE EASE OF THE CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Choose your board. Use marble, slate, wood or ceramic - anything that’s flat and food friendly.
Select 3-5 ramekins or small bowls. These will be the foundation of your board.
Place olives, nuts, pickles and spreads into bowls and place on your board.
Build your board. Once your small bowls are in place, add cheeses & meats, then breads & crackers and finally fruits & veggies.
Serve at room temperature and enjoy!
Check out: CHARCUTERIE + CANTALOUPE RECIPE