Large Meat and Charcuterie Board (18-24 people)

Charcuterie boards are known for their versatility and can be adapted to various themes, including Mediterranean, Spanish, or Italian, depending on the types of ingredients you choose. They make for a delightful and visually appealing way to serve a variety of flavors and textures in one communal setting, perfect for social gatherings and celebrations.

Holiday cheese boards are a festive and delicious way to serve a variety of cheeses and accompaniments during the holiday season. Here’s a quick summary of how to create a well-balanced holiday cheese board:

1. Cheeses:

• Variety is key. Choose cheeses with different textures, flavors, and milk types. Common types include:
  • Soft cheeses: Brie, Camembert, Goat cheese
  • Semi-soft cheeses: Havarti, Gouda
  • Aged cheeses: Cheddar, Manchego, Gruyère
  • Blue cheeses: Roquefort, Gorgonzola
  • Fresh cheeses: Ricotta, Mozzarella

2. Accompaniments:

• Fruits: Fresh fruits like grapes, figs, and pears, as well as dried fruits like apricots, dates, and cranberries.
• Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pecans, or marcona almonds.
• Crackers & Bread: A selection of crackers, baguette slices, or crostini.
• Condiments: Jam or honey (think fig jam, apricot preserves, or honeycomb) to add sweetness.
• Pickles & Olives: For a bit of tang and contrast to the richness of the cheese.

3. Arranging:

• Start by placing the larger items (cheeses) first and then fill in the gaps with fruits, nuts, and other small items.
• Add some decorative touches like sprigs of rosemary, pomegranate seeds, or edible flowers for a festive touch.

4. Serving:

• Serve the cheeses at room temperature for the best flavor, allowing them to sit out for about 30 minutes before eating.
• Offer a variety of textures and flavors to please a range of palates.

This creates a visually appealing, tasty spread perfect for holiday gatherings.