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Creating a charcuterie board that balances savory and sweet flavors is easier than you think. This ham and cheese charcuterie board features a mix of meats, cheeses, fresh citrus, and crunchy nuts, perfect for any gathering.
Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this board offers a little something for everyone. With its awesome colors and delicious pairings, it’s sure to impress both visually and in taste.
Let’s walk through how to assemble this delightful spread in just a few simple steps!
Making The Best Charcuterie Board
Creating a memorable charcuterie board is all about balance and presentation. Start by choosing a variety of textures and flavors that complement each other. Think of a mix of savory, sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements.
The key is to select ingredients that taste great together and look visually appealing when arranged on the board.
Choose Quality Ingredients
Opt for fresh, high-quality meats and cheeses. Prosciutto, salami, and a soft brie or sharp cheddar are perfect for layering flavor. You can also add a unique twist with cured meats or flavored cheeses.
Add Seasonal Fruits
Fresh fruits add natural sweetness and a burst of color to your board. Grapes, citrus, and berries are classic choices, but you can switch it up with sliced apples or figs depending on the season.
Don’t Forget the Crunch
Crackers, breadsticks, or artisan breads are ideal for pairing with the soft cheeses and meats. Adding nuts, such as almonds or pecans, also brings a satisfying crunch that balances out the soft textures.
Arrange with Care
Start by placing the larger items first, such as cheese blocks and bowls of nuts, and fill in the gaps with meats, fruits, and crackers. You want the board to look abundant, but make sure each item has space to stand out.
Ham, Cheese Charcuterie Board with Citrus and Nuts
This simple ham and cheese charcuterie board brings together savory meats, a selection of cheeses, fresh citrus, and crunchy nuts, perfect for any occasion. Learn how to create this beautiful spread in just a few steps.
Ingredients
- 6–8 slices of prosciutto ham
- 6–8 slices of salami
- 8–10 slices of soppressata
- 2–3 small rounds of brie cheese
- 4–6 slices of gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese cubes
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)
- 1 small bunch of red grapes
- 1 small bunch of green grapes
- 1 small orange, halved (for garnish)
- Assorted crackers (whole grain, seeded, etc.)
- A few slices of fresh bread (sourdough or rustic)
Instructions
- Start with the board: Place your cheeses on the charcuterie board. Arrange the brie rounds and sliced gouda first, as they take up the most space.
- Add the meats: Fold the prosciutto and arrange it next to the cheeses. Then place the salami and soppressata in neat stacks or rolls around the cheese.
- Incorporate the fruits: Add bunches of grapes around the meats and cheese for a pop of color and sweetness. Tuck in the halved orange for a citrusy element that brightens the board.
- Scatter the nuts: To add a crunchy texture, place your mixed nuts in small piles or fill a small bowl with them.
- Fill in with crackers and bread: Arrange assorted crackers and fresh slices of bread on the sides, providing an ideal pairing for the cheese and meats.
- Finishing touches: Garnish with a few slices of orange or citrus zest to give it a vibrant and fresh look. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Cheese choices: Feel free to mix and match different cheeses to your liking. Goat cheese or sharp cheddar would be great additions.
- Meats: If you’re not a fan of prosciutto, you can swap it out for smoked turkey or another favorite deli meat.
- Fruit variety: Fresh figs or sliced apples also work well if you want to add more fruit options.
- Presentation: When arranging the board, remember balance. Try not to overcrowd any section, allowing each element to shine.
Final Charcuterie Board Tip
Play with Colors and Shapes
Slice some of the cheese into different shapes or fold the meats in a variety of ways to keep the board visually interesting. Adding citrus slices or herbs like rosemary can brighten up the overall look.
Let me know if you try this delicious charcuterie board.
