Feel like you need a little bit of everything in your life? Discover how to unleash your creative spark with a charcuterie board.
When it comes to creating the perfect charcuterie board, you may not be surprised to learn that there is an art to it. And we’re not just talking about how it looks (although that combination of beautifully-presented food can be pretty mesmerizing).
The real key to making a great charcuterie board is all about balance. You want to make sure that you have a variety of flavors, textures, and colors.
And, of course, you also want to make sure that there’s something for everyone!
Want to discover the zen of charcuterie? Here are a few tips to help you release your inner artist and create a board that will be sure to please everyone’s palate.
1. Choose Your Meats Wisely
While cheese is often the first thing that comes to mind when you think of charcuterie, the meat is actually just as important. After all, it is one of the main components of this type of cuisine!
When choosing your meats, you’ll want to ensure that you have a variety of cooked and cured options. This will give your guests a chance to try a little bit of everything and find their favorite.
Some of our favorite meats for charcuterie boards include:
● Prosciutto
● Salami
● Chorizo
● Soppressata
● Coppa
● Pancetta
● Serrano ham
● Jamon Iberico
Not sure which meat to pair with a particular event? It comes down to three main factors: the time of day, the type of event, and your own personal preferences. You never know, you may find that you have a new favorite!
2. The Power of Cheesy Pairs
In LA, we like to say that it's all about the pairs - who's with who (and who is probably also with who at the same time.) For your charcuterie board, we're talking about the power of cheesy pairs.
Just like with meats, you'll want to make sure that you have a variety of both cooked and cured cheeses. This will give your guests a chance to try a little bit of everything and find their favorite.
While there are obvious pairings - think cheddar and crackers, brie and baguette - don't be afraid to get creative with your cheese combinations. Sometimes unexpected combinations arranged in unique and gourmet ways can lead to the perfect pairings!
3. Add a Little Bit of Sweetness
No charcuterie board is complete without a little bit of sweetness. This can come from fresh fruit, jams, or even chocolate. The goal is to add a touch of sweetness to balance out the saltiness of the meats and cheeses.
For example, imagine the sweet sensation of biting into a ripe peach after enjoying a slice of aged cheddar. The fruit's sweetness will help cleanse your palate, preparing you for your next bite.
Remember, one person's sweet is another's savory. So, don't be afraid to experiment with your favorite flavors. You may be surprised at what you discover!
4. Include a Variety of Accompaniments
While meats and cheeses are the stars of the show, they can't do it alone. That's where the accompaniments come in!
Accompaniments can come in a variety of forms. They can be sweet, like jams and honey. They can be savory, like olives and nuts. And make sure that they are cut and arranged in eye-popping ways to bring out the best in look AND taste!
The goal is to include a variety of accompaniments so that your guests can customize their experience. And don't forget, the sky's the limit when it comes to accompaniments. So, get creative and have fun!
5. Experience Zen with a Pro Charcuterie Team
Who said that charcuterie has to be boring? In fact, it can be one of the most zen things possible!
At Los Angeles Charcuterie, we are passionate about bringing the best of our love of charcuterie to every board we make - from selection to theme. So why not trust the pros with your charcuterie needs?
For instance, at Los Angeles Charcuterie, we love to shock the socks off our clients with our Char-CONE-eries - a celebration of all things savory and sweet, served in an edible cone that gives real Madonna vibes (if you catch our drift!)
Celebrating a kiddo in your life? Make charcuterie fun by taking the meats and cheeses from the board to the cup! Our Char-KID-eries are a fan favorite with their pinwheel-topped charcuterie cups! Add them to a party, and you'll have the coolest (and most delicious) parents around.
Get Your Charcuterie Zen on with Los Angeles Charcuterie
Now that you know how to put together a charcuterie board like a pro, it's time to get your charcuterie zen on with Los Angeles Charcuterie. We're a boutique-style catering company specializing in custom charcuterie boards for all occasions.
Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a large event, we can create a charcuterie board that will wow your guests. We'll work with you to choose the perfect meats, cheeses, and accompaniments to fit your theme and budget.
Ready to get started? Visit us online to learn more about our services and to request a quote. We can't wait to help you create a charcuterie board that's perfect for your next event!