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.
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