Festive and delicious, a charcuterie and cheese board is perfect for entertaining. For an impromptu cocktail hour or for the upcoming holidays, it’s sure to please all of your guests.
To make the most of these quality moments, follow these few tips and tricks for a truly successful charcuterie and cheese board!
Opt for Variety
The key to success for charcuterie boards lies in the variety of meats you have to offer. This will make it easier to cater to the different tastes of your guests. For instant success, high quality Italian charcuteries from Aliments Roma D’Italia are your best option. As well as being gluten-free and lactose-free, they’re entirely prepared with the utmost care in the Bergamo region. Here are a few varieties you can try for your next gathering:
- Salamino al Vino Chianti, for bold and unique flavours.
- Salamino Genova, for its great versatility and delicious peppery taste.
- Salamino Calabrese, for its spicy touch that will tickle your tastebuds.
For even more Italian delicacies, add a few slices of Capicollo, Coppa or Mortadella!
All Kinds of Cheese
A successful board also relies on the balance between the types of cheese offered. At Saputo, there’s no shortage of options to choose from! Remember to include firm cheeses as well as creamy ones to create an appetizing contrast of textures. Also, don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone and try cheeses like the Friulano, with its mild, delicate flavour that pairs wonderfully with spicier charcuterie. The Caciocavallo, with its buttery taste, is also an excellent way to complete your charcuterie board. Finally, bocconcini are just the thing you need for a lighter, fresher touch.
The Final Touch
Side dishes are essential to complete your board; they’ll add a layer of complexity and will allow your guests to mix flavours and combinations.
Crackers, Breads, Vegetables
Sliced baguette, golden crostini, crackers with nuts and dried fruits, cucumber or radish slices… the possibilities are infinite! Just make sure you have a lot of options on hand so your guests can make the perfect bites.
To make your charcuterie board even more appetizing and fun, add some sweet and savoury extras that will balance out the richness of the meat and cheese.
Spreads
Onion confit, apple jelly, fig jam, chutney, pepper jelly, etc.
Fruits
Grapes, apple or pear slices, dried cranberries, figs (fresh or dried), dried apricots, etc.
Nuts
Cashews, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, etc.
Pickled and Brined Goods
Pickles, olives, caperberries, artichoke hearts, etc.
Pair it with a Drink
To top it all off, nothing’s better than a glass of wine or a cocktail. Opt for an Italian wine, such as Chianti or Prosecco, or treat yourself to a classic cocktail to add a bit of fun to your gathering.
Trying a New Presentation
Create your own charcuterie and cheese pairings by presenting them in the form of mini skewers! As an example, why not put a slice of salamino and a bocconcini on small skewers for elegant and tasty appetizers.
Take Your Board Out Beforehand
To offer your guests the best possible tasting experience, take your charcuterie board out of the fridge about an hour before they arrive. This will allow the meat and cheese to reach room temperature, making them neither too cold nor too hot.
