Latest News

05Dec

Put the ‘cute’ in charcuterie

Hosting a charcuterie picnic is a delightful way to impress guests or simply enjoy a relaxing summer day. Here’s how to create a beautifully arranged and delicious platter that’s sure to please everyone:

1. Choose your board

Start with a sturdy wooden cutting board for practicality or opt for a slate board or ceramic platter to add a modern touch.

2. Select your meats

Pick two or three cured meats—prosciutto, salami, chorizo, and bresaola are all excellent choices.

3. Add cheeses

For variety, include a mix of textures and flavours:

• Soft: Brie or goat cheese

• Hard: Havarti or gouda

• Bold: Blue cheese

4. Incorporate fresh & dried fruits

Add a burst of colour and sweetness with fresh fruit like grapes, berries, or apple slices, and complement with dried fruits such as apricots, raisins, or dates.

5. Include nuts & seeds

For extra crunch, add almonds, walnuts, or cashews. Pumpkin or sunflower seeds also provide variety and texture.

6. Add crunchy elements

Mix in different textures with crackers—think thin crisps, breadsticks, or water crackers—and some slices of fresh baguette or sourdough for a heartier option.

7. Condiments & spreads

Include a few condiments to balance the flavours:

• Chutneys for that full-bodied burst of flavour

• Honey for drizzling over cheese

• A mix of green and black olives for a briny touch

8. Arrange it all

Start with the larger items like cheeses and meats, then fill in the gaps with fruits, nuts, and crackers. Keep things visually balanced by mixing colours and textures.

9. Garnish

Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme add aroma and style. If available, edible flowers make for a stunning finishing touch.

10. Serve

Pair your platter with wine, beer, or a refreshing beverage of choice, and enjoy the perfect picnic!

Feel free to adjust based on your guests’ preferences or dietary restrictions.

Related

Varied crops bring promise to provinces

Varied crops bring promise to provinces

Once seen as the “protein farm” for the United Kingdom with an ample supply of butter, cheese and ...

Read More
Summer shows the need for a food security policy

Summer shows the need for a food security policy

Summer was challenging for the horticulture industry, with drought conditions – which were particul...

Read More
Flying high with Kea Energy

Flying high with Kea Energy

Canterbury based electricity retailer Kea Energy may be smaller than the average energy provider but...

Read More
Easy summer scents

Easy summer scents

Stovetop potpourri is a delightful and easy way to fill your home with inviting scents. It involves ...

Read More
Agronomy Update July 2025

Agronomy Update July 2025

July Agronomy Update from Ashburton Store Manager, Bill Cabout

Read More
Debut launch extends lucerne husbandry toolkit

Debut launch extends lucerne husbandry toolkit

Farmers looking to prolong the longevity and health of their lucerne stands have a new weed control ...

Read More




Account Selector