How many meats, spreads and cheeses do I need for a charcuterie board?

When it comes to entertaining guests, a charcuterie board is a classic and crowd-pleasing option. Building a well-balanced and visually appealing platter requires careful consideration of the types of meats, spreads, cheeses, and accompaniments you choose. In this article, we will provide you with some expert tips on how to build the perfect charcuterie and cheese platter that will wow your guests and make your event a success.

How much meat and cheese should you include?

One of the most common questions people have when building a charcuterie and cheese board is how much to include. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 2 to 3 ounces of meat and cheese per person. This means that if you're hosting a party with 10 people, you should plan to have around 20 to 30 ounces of meat and cheese in total.

Choosing the right meats

When selecting meats for your charcuterie platter, it's important to choose a variety of flavors and textures. Some popular options include salami, prosciutto, and chorizo. It's a good idea to include both mild and strong-flavored meats to cater to different preferences.

Choosing the right cheeses

Just like with meats, it's important to choose a variety of cheeses with different textures and flavors. A good rule of thumb is to include a mix of soft, semi-soft, and hard cheeses. Some popular options include brie, cheddar, and goat cheese. It's also a good idea to include at least one blue cheese for those who enjoy a stronger flavor.

Adding accompaniments

To make your charcuterie and cheese platter really stand out, consider adding some accompaniments. This can include items like crackers, bread or toasts, nuts, cornichons, and fruit. It's important to choose accompaniments that complement the flavors of the meats and cheeses. For example, a fruit jam or honey can be a great addition to a salty cheese.

Assembling your platter

When it comes to assembling your charcuterie and cheese platter, start by placing your meats and cheeses on the board or platter. Arrange them in a way that is visually appealing and makes it easy for guests to access. You can then add your accompaniments around the meats and cheeses, filling in any gaps with crackers or bread.

Conclusion

A well-executed charcuterie and cheese platter is a great way to impress your guests and make your event a success. By following these tips, you can create a visually appealing and delicious platter that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. Remember to choose a variety of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, and to assemble your platter in a way that is both visually appealing and easy for guests to access.