Build a Better Charcuterie Board
A charcuterie board doesn’t follow a recipe but is instead a lesson in composition. Put together the perfect charcuterie spread with diverse textures and flavors using this easy cheat sheet.
Build Your Board
Creating a well-balanced charcuterie board can be as simple as choosing your favorite items from the categories below. Have fun with it and give yourself room to play—just be sure to consider how the items may pair together as you go.
1. Cheeses
Add 2-3 cheeses to your board and account for 1-2 oz. of cheese per person.
2. Nuts
Nuts come in many flavors, allowing you to add sweet, salty or spicy flavor. Plus, they add heartiness and texture to complement the other components.
3. Fresh Fruits & Veggies
Add fresh fruits and veggies to brighten your board with color. You can also include pickled veggies to act as a palate cleanser in between bites.
4. Proteins
Include a variety of meat on your board. Mix whole-muscle cuts, dry-cured meat and sliced deli meat, as well as different flavors and textures, like spicy, salty, dry and soft.
5. Breads/Crackers
This element acts as a transportation vehicle for bringing toppings to your mouth. You can keep it simple (one or two breads/crackers) or play with texture and include a variety.
6. Spreads
Spreads round out your board, ensuring each bite is full flavored. Sweet and savory herbs and spices add complex flavor, while tangy and spicy flavors balance the richness of the cheeses and meats.
Delightful Charcuterie Board Themes
Looking for a little more specific guidance for your charcuterie board? Try these quick and easy themes.
The Perfect Pairing
Pair your charcuterie board with a complementary wine! Find your favorite white, red, sparkling, non-alcoholic and more in our wine selection.
Tips From the Schnucks Cheese Guy
Andy DeCou is our expert on speciality cheeses and all things charcuterie. Check out our YouTube playlist with all his best tips, from how to select complementing flavors to making a salami rose.
Homemade Spreads
View All RecipesThe right spread can add richness or complexity to each bite. Add one (or more!) of these spreads to your board.
