The Joy In Gathering

Let’s be honest - We’ve all been intimidated by a charcuterie board at least once in our lives. What’s meant to be an easy grab and go snack or meal has turned into super fancy art displays of meats and cheeses and fruits, oh my! Let’s go back to basics so you can build your boards with confidence and find your own style along the way.If you have ever stood in the cheese aisle wondering if you are buying way too much or not nearly enough, this is for you. There are actually some simple rules of thumb to follow when selecting your offerings and amounts! Here are some basic guidelines to follow as you plan out your gathering.

How Much Food Do You Need?

To start off you’ll need to know whether your board is meant to be a snack or a full meal for your guests. For an appetizer spread you’ll need 2-3 ounces of food per person. For a main meal, up that amount to 5-7 ounces per person. As you’re collecting your groceries let the package measurements be your guide to how much you're buying, and divide that by the numbers of guests invited. Who knew hosting had math involved??This measurement is cumulative, not for each portion of your board. We like to lean into the larger portion sizes, but don’t forget that hands will be in this food so it won’t make for safe leftovers.Speaking of hands in the food, count one adult portion for each two children in attendance. If they’re meant to enjoy the food too we’d stick to family favorites - it might not be the time to put out the strongest smelliest blue cheese on the board!

What do I buy?

A traditional charcuterie board has cured meats as the focus with different cheeses to accompany and enhance them. Now the concept has kind of evolved and many different grazing boards are labeled as charcuterie. It’s no big deal, we all know what we’re talking about! When planning your board we’d suggest sticking to ½ of the food being cheeses, ¼ being meats, and ¼ being crackers, fruits, nuts, olives and/or spreads.For meats think salami, prosciutto, chorizo, capicola, or mortadela. Cheese selections should include one soft, one firm, and one bold. Classics include cheddar, gouda, brie, goat and manchego. Fresh fruits, dried fruits, olives, and all nuts pair with everything mentioned here. Make sure there’s something on the board for everyone, and don’t hesitate to stack it with your favorites!

Assembly

Use what you already have - A wooden board, a small basket, a cake stand, or a plate all work. Mixing different displays adds height and makes the table feel full and inviting. Abundance is about variety and placement, not volume. Start with your cheeses on multiple areas of the board; sliced, cubed, or presented ready to eat. Then around those place the meat options. It’s great to have multiple piles of the same item! Then fill in all the empty space with your fillers. This is where your style comes in. Add florals or pops of color with jams or sweets. Pick a theme to lean into like Spanish or Italian. Take your own lead and let that inspiration guide you to your decor, playlist, and drink offerings.Don't forget, this is meant to be fun! And always listen when your own inspiration strikes. You know your guests best. Pick your offerings, balance your board, and experience the Joy in Gathering.