15 Charcuterie Board Ideas for Any Type of Gathering

Charcuterie is a French term that refers to various cured and preserved meat dishes, covering everything from ham and salami to patés. Charcuterie boards with show-stopping presentation have become trendy in the States in recent years, allowing chefs to highlight their best meat dishes and home cooks to entertain. A balanced board should have a range of complementary flavors and include cheeses along with meats. Pickles, olives, jams, fancy cut fruit, fresh veggies, crackers and nuts are all great items to include. Beyond that, the sky’s the limit! You can factor in themes, seasons, holidays and dietary preferences when designing the perfect board for your event. Not sure where to start? This recipe covers all the basics and sets you up for success by outlining the right amounts and types of ingredients to purchase to build an ideal board. You'll have an easy appetizer (that everyone will love) in no time.

If you’re looking to keep things simple and classic, this board is a great place to start. Whip up a flavorful Buffalo pimento cheese dip and pair it with an assortment of pickles, olives, jams, crackers and a few sliced meats like salami or mortadella.

Take your charcuterie in a sea-worthy direction by replacing the cured meats with tinned fish. The accoutrements are altered accordingly to include things like crisp sliced fennel, salted butter and olive oil potato chips.

Take things in a sweet direction with this dessert "charcuterie" that offers a fun play on the traditional board. Layer in stacks of peanut butter rice crispy squares, chocolate-covered almonds, sugar cookies, fresh fruit and even a chocolate "salami."