Charcuterie boards are just about everywhere these days. And it's easy to see why! They're the first thing your guests will graze on at a party, and a beautifully assembled charcuterie board will be an impressive centerpiece that will have everyone raving. They're colorful, overflowing, and filled things people love to eat, namely cheese, meat, and bread.
The word "charcuterie" is a French word that describes a shop that sells cured pork products such as salami and ham as well as cheeses, olives, nuts, crackers, dried fruits, and other condiments. In fact, the best part about charcuterie boards is that they're totally customizable! You can switch up the components based on the occasion, the season, or simply what your guests will like best. Of course, there are no hard and fast rules for what you can use or how you can put together a charcuterie board. Alex Drummond once took the concept and made charcuterie cups for an easy pick-up snack at a friend's baby shower! You could add spiced nuts or a cranberry-pecan cheeseball, or a homemade hummus or other dip.
So how do you make a charcuterie board for your next party? Don't worry, it's shockingly easy and always impressive looking! In fact, you don't need any special equipment. Just have a wooden cutting board, cheese board, marble slate, or even a serving platter ready to use. Then, follow our steps for how to make a charcuterie board—pair it with a pitcher of sangria and you'll have yourself a party!