Artisan Cheese and Meat Board

Name: Artisan Cheese and Meat Board
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 6-8
Ingredients: 100g Brie cheese; 100g aged cheddar cheese; 100g goat cheese; 100g prosciutto; 100g salami; 100g chorizo; Handful of mixed nuts; Fresh figs or grapes; Honeycomb or honey; Spicy mustard; Artisanal bread or crackers

Highlighted under: Exotic Recipes Made Easy

I absolutely love putting together an Artisan Cheese and Meat Board for gatherings. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s an experience. The beautiful array of textures and flavors allows me to showcase local cheeses and cured meats in a way that invites conversation and enjoyment. I find joy in selecting seasonal accompaniments like fruit, nuts, and artisanal breads, creating a visually stunning centerpiece. This board not only delights the palate but also encourages a sense of community and sharing among friends and family.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:43:29.660Z

Putting together an Artisan Cheese and Meat Board allows for endless creativity, and I love experimenting with different combinations each time. Recently, I tried pairing creamy Brie with a sharp cheddar, and the contrast was outstanding. In addition, including unique touches like honeycomb and spicy mustard adds layers of flavor that truly elevate the experience.

One key tip I’ve learned is to balance flavors and textures. For instance, adding fresh fruits like grapes or figs not only provides sweetness but also a refreshing crunch. Using a variety of nuts adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite intriguing. This board is a celebration of flavors that I always look forward to sharing!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A stunning centerpiece that sparks conversation
Perfect for both casual and formal gatherings
Endless combinations of flavors to satisfy any palate

      

Selecting the Right Ingredients

When creating an Artisan Cheese and Meat Board, the choice of cheeses and meats plays a pivotal role in the overall experience. I recommend using a mix of textures and flavors, such as creamy Brie, sharp aged cheddar, and tangy goat cheese. The cured meats should provide a balance, so combining prosciutto's sweetness with the spiciness of chorizo creates a delightful contrast. Don’t be afraid to explore local artisans for unique options; their specialties can bring an unexpected twist to your board.

Fruits and nuts elevate the board, adding not just flavor, but also visual charm. Fresh figs or grapes complement the richness of the cheeses, while a handful of mixed nuts provides a delightful crunch. If your event is in the warm months, consider using seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries for a refreshing taste. Having a variety of accompaniments allows guests to customize their bites, making the experience more engaging.

Artful Assembly Techniques

The way you arrange your board can make a significant impact. Begin by placing the cheeses at visual focal points on the board, utilizing varying shapes and sizes to create depth. For instance, cutting a wedge from the cheddar introduces dynamic lines and invites guests to slice off portions. Layer the meats in gentle folds around the cheeses or even create small nests for an artistic touch; this not only enhances aesthetics but also adds to the ease of picking them up.

When incorporating accompaniments, think about balance and harmony. Try placing a small bowl of honeycomb near the Brie for a creamy-drizzled contrast, while aligning spicy mustard with the meats creates an appealing flavor pairing. Use color contrast to your advantage; vibrant fruits and earthy nuts against the white and yellow tones of the cheeses make the platter visually captivating. Aim for a design that invites exploration rather than a jumbled mix.

Ingredients

Cheeses and Meats

100g Brie cheese
100g aged cheddar cheese
100g goat cheese
100g prosciutto
100g salami
100g chorizo

Accompaniments

Handful of mixed nuts
Fresh figs or grapes
Honeycomb or honey
Spicy mustard
Artisanal bread or crackers

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Board

Start by selecting a large wooden board or platter. Arrange the cheeses first, spacing them evenly apart.

Add Meats

Next, layer the meats around the cheeses, folding them elegantly to create visual appeal.

Incorporate Accompaniments

Fill in the gaps with nuts, fruits, and additional accompaniments. Arrange them thoughtfully to create a colorful display.

Final Touches

Drizzle honey over the cheese and place small bowls of mustard on the board for guests to help themselves.

Enjoy Your Board!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the board based on seasonal ingredients or your personal favorites. Always balance rich cheeses with something sweet or crunchy for an appealing contrast.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best parts about an Artisan Cheese and Meat Board is how well it can be prepared in advance. Most cheeses are best served at room temperature, so you can take them out about 30 minutes before serving. Assemble your board but leave the nuts and fruits to be added right before serving to ensure freshness. If using soft fruits, consider washing and drying them an hour ahead to avoid excess moisture on the board.

The cured meats can be arranged on the board a few hours prior to serving. Just cover the board tightly with plastic wrap to keep everything fresh and stored at a cool room temperature. If you know you’ll have leftovers, store the ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness throughout the week. Most cheeses and meats can last this way, allowing you to enjoy the board again later.

Flavor Variations and Pairings

Experimenting with different cheeses and meats can lead to unique flavor combinations tailored to your audience’s tastes. For a sweeter palette, consider adding aged Gouda or smoked mozzarella for their creamy nuances. On the meat side, swapping out salami for a flavored sausage infused with herbs can add unexpected layers of flavor that will delight adventurous eaters.

For accompaniments, think beyond the ordinary. Try incorporating pickled vegetables for a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the cheeses. Additionally, flavored olive oils or artisanal dips can be drizzled over the board for added pizzazz. Just remember, the goal is to create a balance of salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements that engage the senses and invite conversations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses.

→ What kind of meats work best?

Cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo add great flavor. Choose various textures for best results.

→ How can I keep my board fresh?

Keep the board covered with plastic wrap until serving. You can also chill it in the fridge if you're preparing ahead of time.

→ What drinks pair well with this board?

Wine is a classic choice! Consider serving a light white wine or a fruity red, depending on the cheeses.