A charcuterie board is typically served with various accompaniments such as whipped goat cheese, snap peas, roasted cauliflower, salted marcona almonds, smoked cheddar, pepper jelly, orange marmalade, dill pickles, candied pecans, and dark chocolate. These pairings add flavor and texture to create a delectable experience.
Indulging in a charcuterie board is a delightful way to enjoy a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and other tasty treats. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to a luxurious snack, a charcuterie board is an excellent choice.
But what goes with a charcuterie board? While the star of the show is undoubtedly the assorted meats and cheeses, the accompaniments can make all the difference. We will explore the various options that pair well with a charcuterie board, enhancing its flavors and creating a well-rounded experience for your palate. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect complements to your charcuterie board.
Serving Suggestions
What Goes With a Charcuterie Board?
With Blue Cheese
Ricotta. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. Ranch Crackers. Caprese Salad. Yogurt. Cheese Rangoon. Fruit Jam.
With Goat Cheese
Classic Charcuterie Tray. Cured meats. Cheeses (we recommend using at least one soft cheese, hard cheese, and blue cheese). Crackers. Herbed nuts. Cornichons. Radishes. Olives. Grapes or figs.
With Brie
Artisanal Breads and Crackers. Pickles and Preserves. Fresh and Dried Fruits. Nuts.
Accompaniments: Olives, pickles, cornichons, nuts, baguette slices, bread sticks, and crackers are all great options. They add flavor and texture to complement the charcuterie board.
Don’t forget to include a variety of cheeses, including blue cheese, goat cheese, and brie, to enhance the taste experience. Additionally, consider including ricotta, ham and cheese pinwheels, ranch crackers, caprese salad, yogurt, cheese rangoon, and fruit jam for a diverse and satisfying selection.
Credit: tastesbetterfromscratch.com
Accompaniments
| Accompaniments |
|---|
| On a French baguette |
| On a small cracker |
| With fresh fruit |
When it comes to serving a charcuterie board, many delicious accompaniments pair perfectly with the cured meats and cheeses. On a French baguette, you can enjoy the rich flavors of the charcuterie with a crispy and chewy texture. Alternatively, you can opt for a small cracker that provides a light and crunchy base. These options allow you to fully savor the flavors of the cured meats and cheeses without overpowering them.
In addition to the bread options, fresh fruit is a wonderful accompaniment for a charcuterie board. The sweetness and juiciness of fresh fruit like grapes, figs, and berries provide a refreshing contrast to the salty and savory flavors of the charcuterie. The combination of the two creates a balance of flavors that is both satisfying and delightful.
charcuterie board tips
Charcuterie boards have become increasingly popular for entertaining guests or enjoying a casual night in. These beautifully arranged boards, filled with an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and more, are not only delicious but also visually appealing. If you’re looking to create an impressive charcuterie board, here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Choose a Variety of Meats and Cheeses
When selecting meats for your charcuterie board, opt for a variety of flavors and textures. Include options like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo. Similarly, choose an assortment of cheeses such as brie, cheddar, and gouda. This variety will ensure there’s something for everyone’s taste.
2. Add Fresh and Dried Fruits
Adding fresh and dried fruits to your charcuterie board not only provides a burst of color but also balances out the flavors. Consider including grapes, figs, sliced apples, or dried apricots. These fruits will add a touch of sweetness and freshness to complement the savory elements.
3. Include a Variety of Crackers and Bread
Crackers and bread are essential for enjoying the meats and cheeses on your charcuterie board. Offer a selection of plain and flavored crackers, as well as sliced baguette or breadsticks. This variety will provide different textures and flavors to pair with the other ingredients.
4. Don’t Forget the Condiments
Enhance the flavors of your charcuterie board by including a variety of condiments. Offer options like mustard, honey, olives, or pickles. These condiments will add a tangy or sweet element to the board, allowing guests to customize their bites.
5. Arrange with Care
Take the time to arrange your charcuterie board thoughtfully. Start by placing larger items like cheese wedges or bowls of condiments. Then, fill in the empty spaces with meats, fruits, nuts, and crackers. This arrangement will create an aesthetically pleasing display and make it easier for guests to serve themselves.
what not to put on a charcuterie board?
Here are a few items to avoid when assembling your charcuterie board:
1. Strongly Flavored Cheeses: While cheese is a staple on a charcuterie board, it’s best to avoid strongly flavored varieties that can overpower other ingredients. Opt for milder options like brie, gouda, or goat cheese to allow the other flavors to shine.
2. Delicate Crackers: Delicate crackers may look elegant, but they can easily crumble and become messy when paired with cured meats and spreads. Choose sturdier options like baguette slices, breadsticks, or sturdy whole-grain crackers to hold up to the toppings.
3. Overly Salty Meats: While cured meats like prosciutto and salami are popular choices, it’s important to avoid overly salty options that can overwhelm the palate. Look for balanced flavors and consider adding some variety with options like smoked turkey or roast beef.
4. Strongly Spiced Condiments: Condiments can add a delightful touch to a charcuterie board, but avoid strongly spiced options that can overpower the other flavors. Opt for milder choices like honey, grainy mustard, or a simple fruit jam to complement the meats and cheeses.
5. Messy or Sticky Fruits: Fresh fruits can add a refreshing element to a charcuterie board, but avoid messy or sticky options that can make the board difficult to eat. Stay away from fruits like watermelon or oranges and instead choose clean and easy-to-eat options like grapes, berries, or sliced apples. Remember, the key to a successful charcuterie board is balance and variety.
By avoiding these items, you can create a visually appealing and delicious spread that will impress your guests.
Shopping Recommendations
When it comes to a charcuterie board, it’s important to choose the right accompaniments to enhance the flavors. For a complete shopping experience, consider a charcuterie board set that includes everything you need. Some popular options include the Bamboo Cheese Board and the Wooden Charcuterie Board, both of which provide a stylish backdrop for your meats and cheeses.
In addition to your charcuterie board, here are some recommendations for what to serve with it:
- Blue cheese
- Goat cheese
- Brie
- French baguette slices
- Small crackers
- Assorted cured meats
- Olives and pickles
- Fresh and dried fruits
- Nuts
With these options, you can create a well-rounded charcuterie board that will impress your guests. Happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions On What Goes With A Charcuterie Board?
What Other Dishes Go With A Charcuterie Board?
Charcuterie boards pair well with dishes such as ricotta, ham and cheese pinwheels, ranch crackers, caprese salad, yogurt, cheese rangoon, and fruit jam.
What Finger Foods Go With A Charcuterie Board?
Finger foods that go with a charcuterie board include cured meats, cheeses, crackers, herbed nuts, cornichons, radishes, olives, and grapes or figs.
What Is The Proper Etiquette For Eating Charcuterie?
Proper etiquette for eating charcuterie includes using the following accompaniments: artisanal breads, crackers, pickles, preserves, fresh and dried fruits, and nuts.
What Are Four Other Accompaniments Often Found On Charcuterie Boards?
Artisanal breads and crackers, pickles and preserves, fresh and dried fruits, and nuts.
Conclusion
To elevate your charcuterie board experience, consider pairing it with a variety of delicious and complementary foods. A charcuterie board is versatile and can be accompanied by a range of flavors, textures, and colors. Add a touch of sophistication by including some artisanal breads and crackers.
Pickles and preserves provide a tangy and sweet contrast, while fresh and dried fruits offer a burst of freshness. Don’t forget the nuts, which add a delightful crunch to your board. To enhance the visual appeal, incorporate olives, cornichons, and various cheese options such as the classic brie, blue cheese, or aged cheddar.
Seasonal fruits can add color and a touch of sweetness. With these accompaniments, your charcuterie board becomes a delightful feast for the eyes and palate. Get creative and curate a board that showcases a combination of flavors, textures, and colors for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
