When you need to elevate an ordinary gathering into an extraordinary event, an easy charcuterie board is your secret weapon. Perfect for holidays, game days, impromptu visits, or any festive occasion, this effortlessly elegant spread offers a delightful array of flavors and textures. Imagine savory cured meats like salami and pepperoni, artisanal cheeses, homemade garlic rosemary breadsticks, and a vibrant medley of fresh fruits, crunchy nuts, and delectable spreads. With quality ingredients like Bridgford Foods’ pantry-friendly meats and their versatile Parkerhouse Style Rolls, you can master the art of creating a stunning, crowd-pleasing appetizer board that looks like it took hours but comes together in mere minutes.
This post is brought to you by Bridgford Foods.
Building a charcuterie board stands out as one of the best party appetizer ideas due to its inherent simplicity and incredible customizability. Whether you’re hosting an elaborate holiday dinner, a lively game day party, or a relaxed casual get-together with friends, a beautifully arranged board bursting with a diverse selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and savory spreads is guaranteed to captivate your guests and leave a lasting impression. It’s a culinary centerpiece that invites interaction, conversation, and discovery, making it much more than just an appetizer.
The beauty of charcuterie lies in its adaptability. For a truly stress-free entertaining experience, focus on sourcing high-quality, pantry-friendly items. Bridgford salami and pepperoni, for instance, are staples that can be kept on hand for any spontaneous occasion. Pair these with freshly baked breadsticks, crafted from Bridgford Parkerhouse Style Rolls, to add a warm, homemade touch. Don’t stop there; incorporate an assortment of gourmet crackers, briny olives, and sweet or savory jams to construct a board that is not only bursting with flavor but also visually captivating. No matter the event, a thoughtfully curated, easy charcuterie board for your party is an absolute guarantee for a memorable and delicious success!
Table of Contents
Why We Love This Easy Charcuterie Board Idea
Crafting a charcuterie board for your guests offers a host of benefits, making it an ideal choice for any host or hostess looking to impress with minimal effort.
- Unmatched Convenience at Your Fingertips: Bridgford’s Summer Sausage, Salami, and Pepperoni are designed for modern living. These robust, flavorful meats can be stored in your pantry, always ready to go until opened. This makes them absolutely perfect for those unexpected guests or spur-of-the-moment gatherings. Complement them with Bridgford Parkerhouse Style Frozen Rolls, which transform into warm, fragrant garlic rosemary breadsticks with incredible ease, adding a sophisticated yet simple element to your spread.
- A Homemade Touch Without the Hassle: The idea of homemade items often conjures images of extensive kitchen time. Not so with this board! By using Bridgford’s versatile frozen rolls, you can effortlessly create golden-brown garlic rosemary breadsticks. It’s a process involving just a few simple steps, yet it imparts a wonderful, personal touch to your charcuterie board, impressing guests with its freshness and flavor without chaining you to the kitchen.
- Delicious and Diverse Flavors for Everyone: This board is a symphony of tastes. The rich, savory, and zesty notes of Bridgford Meat Snacks harmoniously blend with the aromatic, herbaceous warmth of the garlic rosemary breadsticks. Add a selection of exquisite cheeses, a variety of crackers, and an assortment of seasonal fruits, and you’ve created a diverse palette of flavors and appealing textures. This ensures there’s something delightful for every palate, making it a guaranteed hit. Consider incorporating this beautiful spread into your easy Thanksgiving appetizers this year for a festive and memorable start to your meal!
The Art of Assembling Your Charcuterie Masterpiece
A charcuterie board is more than just a collection of ingredients; it’s an edible work of art. The key to a truly show-stopping board lies in careful selection and thoughtful arrangement, ensuring both visual appeal and a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Choosing Your Canvas: The Perfect Board
The foundation of your charcuterie spread is the board itself. Opt for a sturdy, attractive surface that is large enough to accommodate all your chosen elements without appearing overly crowded. Common choices include:
- Wooden Cutting Boards: These offer a rustic, warm aesthetic and are widely available in various shapes and sizes.
- Marble Slabs: Providing a cool surface, marble is excellent for keeping cheeses and meats fresh longer, and it lends an air of elegant sophistication.
- Slate Platters: With their dark, dramatic contrast, slate boards make vibrant colors pop and are often accompanied by chalk for labeling items.
- Ceramic or Melamine Serving Platters: These come in a multitude of designs and can add a unique touch to your presentation.
For a typical gathering of 6-8 people as an appetizer, a board roughly 12-18 inches in diameter or length works beautifully. Ensure it has a slight edge or handles for easy transport.
Curating Your Components: Essential Ingredients for a Balanced Board
The magic of a charcuterie board comes from its diverse selection. Aim for a mix of salty, sweet, tangy, savory, and creamy elements. Here’s a breakdown of the key categories:
- Cured Meats (Charcuterie): These are the stars of the show. Aim for 2-3 different types to offer variety.
- Bridgford Salami: Offers a rich, savory, and slightly peppery flavor. Can be folded into quarters or rolled into elegant rosettes.
- Bridgford Pepperoni: A familiar favorite, providing a spicy kick and vibrant color. Stack in neat piles or gently fold.
- Bridgford Summer Sausage: Hearty and flavorful, it’s perfect sliced into bite-sized cubes for easy snacking.
- Other options: Prosciutto (delicate, salty), Capicola (spicy, marbled), Chorizo (bold, smoky).
- Cheeses: A variety of textures and strengths is crucial. Select 3-4 different cheeses.
- Hard/Firm Cheeses: Dubliner (tangy, nutty, cheddar-like), Aged Gouda (caramel notes), Manchego (sheep’s milk, savory). These can be sliced, cubed, or broken into shards.
- Soft/Creamy Cheeses: Brie (buttery, earthy), Goat Cheese (tangy, crumbly), White Stilton with Cranberries (festive, sweet, crumbly). These are often served as wedges or logs.
- Semi-Hard Cheeses: Baby Swiss (nutty, mild, visually appealing holes), Gruyere (complex, nutty). Slice or cube for easy access.
- Carbohydrates (Vehicles for Flavor): Provide a foundation for meats and cheeses.
- Garlic Rosemary Breadsticks (from Bridgford Parkerhouse Style Rolls): Warm, fresh, and aromatic, these add a delightful homemade element perfect for dipping.
- Assorted Crackers: Water crackers, whole grain crackers, artisan crisps – offer different shapes and textures.
- Crusty Baguette Slices: A classic choice, toasted or fresh.
- Fruits: Essential for sweetness, acidity, and vibrant color.
- Fresh Grapes (Red or Green): Add a burst of sweetness and juicy texture. Cluster them for easy grabbing.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bright red, provide a fresh, slightly acidic counterpoint.
- Other fresh options: Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), fig slices, apple slices (tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning), pear slices.
- Dried Fruits: Apricots, figs, cranberries, cherries – offer concentrated sweetness and chewiness.
- Nuts: Provide crunch and a savory earthiness.
- Marcona Almonds with Rosemary: A sophisticated choice, offering a delicate crunch and herb-infused flavor.
- Other options: Smoked almonds, pecans, walnuts, pistachios. (For nut-free boards, use pickles or cucumbers).
- Spreads & Dips: Introduce moisture, flavor complexity, and another texture.
- Jams/Preserves: Fig jam, apricot preserves, berry jams.
- Honey: Drizzled over cheese or served alongside.
- Mustards: Dijon, whole grain, spicy brown.
- Olives/Pickles: Briny and acidic, they cut through the richness of meats and cheeses.
- Hummus or other creamy dips: For a more substantial dip option.
- Garnishes: The finishing touch that brings everything together.
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme Sprigs: Adds a fragrant, natural aesthetic and a pop of green.
- Edible Flowers: For a truly elegant presentation.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Flexibility is key when building your perfect charcuterie board. Here’s a closer look at the recommended ingredients and smart substitutions to tailor your spread to any taste or dietary preference:
- Bridgford Garlic & Herb Breadsticks: These are the heart of our homemade touch. Made from Bridgford Parkerhouse Style Rolls, they offer a warm, savory, and aromatic element that’s irresistibly dippable.
- Bridgford Pepperoni: A classic choice for its slightly spicy, rich flavor.
- Substitution: Any thinly sliced spicy salami or even turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
- Bridgford Italian Salami: Offers a robust, savory flavor with a pleasant chew.
- Substitution: Genoa salami, soppressata, or even thinly sliced mortadella.
- Bridgford Summer Sausage: Known for its hearty, tangy, and slightly smoky profile.
- Substitution: Other cured sausages, or even a smoked kielbasa (cooked and sliced) for a different texture.
- Dubliner Cheese: An excellent choice with its tangy, salty, and nutty profile, akin to an aged coastal cheddar. It has a firm texture that’s easy to slice.
- Substitution: Other firm or hard cheeses like Asiago, aged white cheddar, or a robust Parmesan.
- White Stilton with Cranberries: This cheese is particularly ideal for holiday-themed boards, offering a delightful blend of creamy texture and sweet-tart fruitiness.
- Substitution: Any type of soft cheese works well here, such as creamy Brie, tangy goat cheese (chevre), or even a milder blue cheese or Gorgonzola if you enjoy bolder flavors.
- Baby Swiss: Loved for its mild, nutty flavor and those iconic “holes” that add visual interest to your board.
- Substitution: Smoked aged Gouda or Gruyere cheese for a similar texture with deeper, more complex flavors. Havarti is another great mild, sliceable option.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These small, juicy tomatoes bring a beautiful pop of bright red color and fresh acidity to the board.
- Substitution: Any small, colorful vegetable like cucumber slices, mini bell peppers, or crisp radishes. For a briny alternative, green olives or Kalamata olives are excellent.
- Red Grapes or Green Grapes: Grapes are a charcuterie board staple, adding a natural sweetness, dimension, and juicy texture that complements the savory components perfectly.
- Substitution: Seasonal berries (strawberries, blueberries), apple slices (toss in lemon juice to prevent browning), or fig halves.
- Marcona Almonds with Rosemary: These Spanish almonds are prized for their delicate texture and buttery flavor, enhanced by aromatic rosemary, making them an ultimate choice for a sophisticated board, especially during holidays.
- Substitution: Mixed nuts, smoked almonds, cashews, or even pistachios. For a nut-free board, consider tiny gherkin pickles, cornichons, dried cherries, dried apricots, or fresh berries like raspberries and blackberries.
- Fresh Rosemary: Used not only for its fragrant aroma but also to introduce a vibrant pop of green and textural garnish, elevating the board’s aesthetic appeal.
- Substitution: Fresh thyme, parsley, or even mint sprigs for a different aromatic touch.
Where to Buy Bridgford Products
Bridgford Foods makes it easy to stock your pantry and freezer with high-quality ingredients. Their products are widely available at major grocery stores and retailers across the nation. Look for a freestanding display in the meat section for their delicious Salami, Summer Sausage, and Pepperoni. For their versatile Parkerhouse Style Rolls, head to the freezer aisle.
To find a store near you, visit their official websites:
- Find Bridgford Bread & Rolls
- Find Bridgford Meat Snacks
You can also conveniently shop a selection of Bridgford Meat Snacks online by visiting their online store. For a limited time, now through New Year’s, use the exclusive code RENAE15 at checkout to save 15% off your order!
With Bridgford Foods’ ready-to-serve meats in your pantry and their convenient Parkerhouse Style Rolls in your freezer, you’ll be perfectly prepared for any entertaining opportunity this holiday season and beyond.
🎯 Pro Tip: Quantity Guidelines
Wondering how much food you’ll need for each person? For a charcuterie board served as an appetizer, a general rule of thumb is to plan for approximately 3-4 slices of meat, a generous handful of crackers or breadsticks, and a few pieces of cheese and fruit per person. This is a flexible guideline; adjust quantities based on the overall size of your gathering and whether the charcuterie board is the sole appetizer or one of several snacks being offered. For a main course charcuterie board, double these quantities.
Recipe Variations: Tailoring Your Board to Any Theme
The versatility of a charcuterie board allows you to easily adapt it to various themes and preferences. Here are some inspiring variations:
- Sweet & Savory Delight: Achieve a perfect flavor balance by contrasting savory meats and cheeses with a selection of sweet treats. Include items like rich chocolate-covered almonds, delicate honeycomb, chewy dried apricots, and elegant fig halves. This combination offers a delightful interplay of tastes and textures that will satisfy all cravings.
- Mediterranean-Inspired Mezze: Transport your guests to the shores of the Mediterranean with a vibrant, fresh-inspired board. Incorporate creamy hummus, salty feta cheese, a medley of olives, tender roasted red peppers, and tangy marinated artichoke hearts. Pair these delectable components with soft pita bread and crispy crostini for an authentic and flavorful twist.
- Elegant Brunch Board: Reimagine the traditional charcuterie platter for a delightful morning or midday spread. Feature luxurious smoked salmon, creamy cream cheese, an assortment of fresh bagels, a colorful array of fresh fruits, and adorable mini waffles. A drizzle of golden honey or a spoonful of sweet jam will add the perfect finishing touch, making it ideal for a leisurely brunch.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Make your charcuterie board approachable and exciting for younger guests. Focus on milder cheeses, fun turkey or ham roll-ups, kid-favorite crackers, crunchy pretzels, colorful fresh fruit slices, and a creamy yogurt dip. This playful spread is perfect for little ones and ensures everyone at the party has something to enjoy.
- Seasonal Harvest Board: Embrace the bounty of the season by incorporating fresh, local produce. In fall, think apple slices, pumpkin seeds, and spiced nuts. In summer, fresh berries, melon, and cucumber slices are perfect. This keeps your board fresh and exciting throughout the year.
- Vegetarian Board: For non-meat eaters, simply focus on an expanded selection of cheeses, diverse fruits (fresh and dried), vegetables, olives, nuts, and a variety of gourmet dips and spreads. Adding roasted red peppers or marinated mushrooms can provide extra depth.
Equipment Used in This Recipe
Creating a beautiful charcuterie board doesn’t require a lot of specialized tools, but a few key items will make the process smoother and the presentation more polished:
- Charcuterie Board: The most important piece of equipment! Choose a wooden cutting board, a elegant marble slab, or a sturdy serving platter. Ensure it’s sufficiently large to hold all your chosen ingredients without overcrowding. A medium-to-large board, typically around 12-18 inches in diameter or length, works perfectly for this recipe, accommodating a generous spread for several guests.
- Small Bowls or Ramekins: Essential for holding smaller items like nuts, olives, jams, or dips. These help organize the board, prevent ingredients from mixing, and add varying heights for visual interest.
- Cheese Knives: Provide a selection of appropriate knives for different cheese types (e.g., soft cheese knife, hard cheese knife).
- Serving Utensils: Small tongs or spoons for easy grabbing of items like olives or grapes.
🎯 Pro Tip: 5 Things to Avoid on a Charcuterie Board
To ensure your charcuterie board is a resounding success, here are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Avoid Overcrowding Your Board: A cluttered board can look messy and unappetizing. Instead, strategically place your ingredients, varying their heights and textures, to create a visually appealing, inviting landscape that encourages guests to explore and enjoy. Leave a little breathing room between elements.
- Using Low-Quality or Past-Prime Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste and overall experience. Always opt for the freshest, highest-quality meats, cheeses, fruits, and accompaniments. Inspect everything carefully before placing it on the board.
- Including Foods That Brown Quickly: Steer clear of fruits like bananas, pineapple, and untreated apple or pear slices, as they tend to oxidize and turn brown quickly when exposed to air. This can detract from the board’s fresh appearance. If you must use apples or pears, toss them in a little lemon juice.
- Overly Spicy or Strong-Smelling Foods Without Warning: While a touch of spice can be nice, some guests may be sensitive to very hot or pungent foods. Avoid including items like raw jalapeño peppers unless you specifically label them. If you do include spicy elements, ensure they are clearly marked.
- Incorporating Cooked, Warm, or Messy Foods: A traditional charcuterie board is designed to be served at room temperature (or slightly chilled for cheeses). Avoid cooked items that need to be kept warm, as they can quickly become unappetizing. Similarly, very oily or saucy cooked foods can create a messy board. Dried fruits are perfectly fine, but generally, stick to uncooked, ready-to-eat components.
How to Make an Easy Charcuterie Board for Your Party
Creating a beautiful and delicious charcuterie board is a simple process when broken down into manageable steps. Follow this guide to assemble your impressive spread.
- Prep and Bake the Breadsticks
The warm, aromatic garlic and herb breadsticks add a delightful homemade element to your board. Find the detailed recipe for Bridgford’s Garlic & Herb Breadsticks here.
- Begin by thawing the Bridgford Parkerhouse-Style Rolls according to the package instructions, typically allowing about 1-2 hours at room temperature.
- Once thawed, prepare and bake the breadsticks as directed in the recipe. This usually involves shaping, brushing with an herb-garlic butter mixture, and baking until golden brown and fragrant.
- Choose Your Board
Select your serving vessel. A sturdy wooden cutting board, a cool marble slab, or an attractive ceramic platter will serve as the canvas for your edible art. Aim for a board that is approximately 12-18 inches in diameter or length; this size is generally ideal for a generous appetizer spread and allows for ample space without feeling cramped.
Prep Your Charcuterie Board Meats, Cheeses, Fruits, and Veggies
Preparing your ingredients beforehand makes the assembly process smooth and efficient.
- Prepare all the various components: meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and vegetables.
- Meats:
- Slice the Bridgford Summer Sausage into uniform, bite-sized cubes. This makes it easy for guests to pick up.
- Arrange the Bridgford Salami and Pepperoni. You can stack them artfully in small, overlapping piles, or gently fold individual slices into quarters or roll them into elegant rosettes for a decorative touch.
- Cheeses:
- Slice the Dubliner cheese into thin squares or rectangles. Ensure slices are uniform for neat presentation.
- Cut the Baby Swiss into bite-sized cubes. The distinct holes in Swiss cheese add visual interest.
- For the White Stilton wedge, you can either leave it whole, allowing guests to cut their own pieces, or pre-slice a few portions for easier access, presenting them around the main wedge.
- Fruits & Nuts:
- Rinse and thoroughly dry the red grapes. Separate them into small, manageable clusters, making them easy for guests to grab.
- Have the rosemary Marcona almonds ready. These can be sprinkled directly onto the board in small sections or placed in a decorative small bowl.
- Veggies:
- Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes. Keep them whole to preserve their freshness and vibrant color, offering a crisp, juicy burst of flavor.
- Meats:
Assemble the Charcuterie Board
Now comes the fun part: arranging your delicious ingredients into a visually stunning masterpiece. Think about balance, color, and texture as you place each item.
- Artfully arrange your cured meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and veggies on the board:
- Start with Anchors: Place the warm, aromatic garlic & herb breadsticks prominently on one side of the board, perhaps the center-right. Position the large Stilton wedge in the very center, as it will be a focal point.
- Arrange the Meats:
- Create a neat, appealing pile or a wedge shape with the cubed summer sausage.
- Fan out the elegant salami and pepperoni slices into decorative layers or form them into beautiful rosettes. Place these near the cheeses to suggest natural pairings.
- Place the Cheeses: Create distinct small sections for each cheese.
- Arrange the thinly sliced Dubliner cheese in one corner, fanning the slices out slightly for easy access.
- Add the cubed Baby Swiss cheese in a visually appealing pile, perhaps near the grapes, creating another textural contrast.
- Introduce Color with Veggies: Scatter the vibrant cherry tomatoes strategically around the board. Place them in clusters of 2-3 between the salami and summer sausage, or tuck them into empty spaces to add bright pops of color and freshness.
- Include Nuts for Crunch and Flavor: Arrange the savory Rosemary Marcona Almonds in a small pile, or if you have a small decorative bowl, place them inside. Position them near the cheeses and meats to provide a delightful crunchy texture and a savory counterpoint for your guests.
- Fill in the Gaps and Garnish: Place a small, lush bunch of red grapes opposite the tomatoes to create balance and offer another sweet element. Finally, fill any remaining empty spaces with fresh sprigs of rosemary or parsley. These garnishes not only add a decorative touch but also impart a wonderful aromatic fragrance, completing your visually stunning charcuterie board.
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
An easy charcuterie board is designed to be an interactive and delightful experience, best enjoyed when it offers a rich tapestry of textures and flavors. To achieve this, always ensure your board includes a thoughtfully curated mix of savory, sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements. Arrange your cured meats, artisanal cheeses, gourmet crackers, fresh and dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and a selection of delectable spreads in an inviting manner, guaranteeing that each bite is packed with delicious variety and an engaging culinary journey.
For the ultimate presentation and ease of serving, always provide a set of dedicated cheese knives. These tools make slicing harder cheeses and spreading softer ones effortless for your guests. Enhance the flavor profile of your board by including small bowls of gourmet honey, a robust whole-grain mustard, or a sweet and tangy fig jam for dipping and spreading. For an extra touch of gourmet sophistication, consider drizzling high-quality olive oil over fresh burrata or mozzarella if you include them. To complete the sophisticated entertaining experience, pair your exquisite charcuterie board with a selection of fine wines (reds for bolder meats, whites for lighter cheeses), sparkling water, or expertly crafted cocktails. With these thoughtful additions, you’ll create a stunning appetizer spread that is not only perfect for parties, festive holidays, or casual get-togethers but also effortlessly memorable.
Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! You can bake the breadsticks a few hours in advance. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. Before serving, you can gently reheat them in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) for a few minutes. This will restore their warm, fresh-baked aroma and soft texture, making them just as delicious as when they were first made.
The key to a stunning board is variety and presentation. Customize your board with a diverse selection of cheeses (hard, soft, creamy, tangy). Offer a range of crackers and artisanal breads. Incorporate plenty of fresh fruits like seasonal cherries or mixed berries, alongside chewy dried fruits for texture. Don’t forget fresh vegetables for crunch and color. Include small bowls of contrasting dips and spreads, such as sweet jams, savory hummus, tangy shawarma sauce, rich béchamel cheese sauce, creamy Velveeta cheese dip, or a zesty spicy honey mustard. This wide array of choices will keep your guests delighted and coming back for more, encouraging them to try new flavor combinations!
Bridgford products are conveniently available at grocery stores and retailers across the country. For their Salami, Summer Sausage, and Pepperoni, keep an eye out for a dedicated freestanding display, typically located in the meat section. The versatile Parkerhouse Style Rolls can be found in the freezer aisle. You can also find links to purchase online on their website. Currently, through New Year’s, you can use the code RENAE15 at checkout on their online store to save 15% off your meat snack purchases!
Many components of a charcuterie board can be prepared in advance. Cheeses can be sliced, meats pre-folded, and nuts/dried fruits portioned up to 24 hours ahead of time and stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the board no more than 1-2 hours before serving to ensure ultimate freshness, especially for delicate fresh fruits and breadsticks. If making the board further in advance, leave the breadsticks, crackers, and very delicate fruits off until just before serving.
To store leftovers, remove all items from the board and place them in separate airtight containers. Refrigerate meats and cheeses immediately. Crackers and breadsticks should be stored at room temperature in airtight containers. Most items will keep well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Discard any items that have been sitting at room temperature for more than 4 hours.
Other Easy Recipes to Consider…
- Stuffed Pull Apart Dinner Rolls
- Pizza Monkey Bread with Frozen Bread Dough
- Mini Pepperoni Calzones
If you tried this easy charcuterie board for party recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback is greatly appreciated! Thanks for visiting!
Easy Charcuterie Board
By Renae Gerhardstein
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 from 1 vote)
Create the perfect easy charcuterie board for the holidays, game day, or any gathering! Follow our step-by-step guide to impress your guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Pin Recipe
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 313 kcal
Equipment
- Charcuterie board – Use a wooden cutting board, marble slab, or serving platter that’s large enough to hold all the ingredients. A medium-to-large board about 12-18″ or so works well for this recipe.
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 12 Bridgford Garlic & Herb Breadsticks (see instructions for recipe link)
- 5 ounces Bridgford Pepperoni
- 5 ounces Bridgford Italian Salami
- 8 ounces Bridgford Summer Sausage
- 7 ounces Dubliner cheese (may use other firm or hard cheeses)
- 8 ounces White Stilton with cranberries wedge (or use any soft cheese like brie, goat cheese, or another type of blue cheese or gorgonzola)
- 4 ounces baby Swiss cheese (substitute with smoked aged gouda or gruyere cheese)
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes (or green olives)
- ¼ cup red grapes
- ¼ cup Marcona almonds with rosemary
- 6-8 sprigs fresh rosemary
Instructions
Prep and Bake the Breadsticks
- Get the recipe for Bridgford’s Garlic & Herb Breadsticks. Prepare and bake as directed.
Prep Ingredients
- Slice the Summer Sausage into bite-sized cubes. Arrange the Salami and Pepperoni into small stacks or gently fold them for a decorative touch.
- Slice the Dubliner cheese into thin squares or rectangles. Cut the baby Swiss into bite-sized cubes. Leave the white Stilton wedge whole for guests to cut themselves, or pre-slice a few pieces for easy access.
- Rinse and dry the red grapes. Separate them into small clusters for easy grabbing. Have the rosemary almonds ready for sprinkling or placing in a small bowl.
- Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes. Keep them whole for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Assemble the Board
- Place the garlic & herb breadsticks on one side of the board and the large cheese Stilton wedge in the center of the board.
- Arrange the meats by placing the cubed summer sausage in a neat wedge-shaped pile. Fan out the salami and pepperoni slices into decorative layers or rosettes.
- Create small sections for each cheese: Place the Dubliner slices in one corner, fanning them out slightly. Add the baby Swiss cubes in a pile near the summer sausage.
- Arrange the cherry tomatoes between the salami and summer sausage or scatter them around the board to add bright pops of color in clusters of 2-3.
- Add the Marcona almonds in a small pile or bowl near the cheeses to provide a savory, crunchy option for guests.
- Place a small bunch of grapes opposite the tomatoes for balance. Fill in any empty spaces with sprigs of fresh rosemary or parsley for a decorative and aromatic touch.
Video
Notes
- Quantity Guidelines: For a charcuterie board appetizer, plan for at least 3-4 slices of meat, a handful of crackers or breadsticks, and a few pieces of cheese and fruit per person. Adjust this based on the size of your gathering and whether this is the main appetizer or one of several snacks.
- Things to avoid using on your board:
- Avoid overcrowding your cheeseboard. This makes it look messy. Instead, stagger the heights of your ingredients to give it a visually appealing look that makes guests want to dive right in!
- Using low-quality ingredients or foods past their prime. Only use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Foods that turn brown, like bananas, pineapple, untreated apple slices, and melons.
- Overly spicy foods: since some people are sensitive to them, skip things like jalapeno peppers, and be sure to mark anything that is spicy.
- Cooked foods: Dried fruits are fine, but skip the cooked foods as they tend to get messy or require specific temperature control.
Recipe Variations:
- Sweet & savory: Balance the savory meats and cheeses with a selection of sweets like chocolate-covered almonds, honeycomb, dried apricots, and figs for a perfect contrast of flavors.
- Mediterranean-inspired: Include hummus, feta, olives, roasted red peppers, and marinated artichokes, paired with pita bread and crostini for a vibrant, Greek-inspired twist.
- Brunch board: Swap the traditional charcuterie platters for a breakfast-themed spread with smoked salmon, cream cheese, bagels, fresh fruit, and mini waffles with a drizzle of honey or jam.
- Kid-friendly: Make it fun and approachable with mild cheeses, turkey or ham roll-ups, crackers, pretzels, fresh fruit, and a yogurt dip for a spread that’s perfect for little ones.
Storing Instructions:
- To store leftovers, remove all items from the board and place them in separate airtight containers. Refrigerate meats and cheeses immediately. Crackers and breadsticks should be stored at room temperature in airtight containers. Most items will keep well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Discard any items that have been sitting at room temperature for more than 4 hours.
Make Ahead Instructions:
- Prepare the board without the breadsticks, and cover it tightly with foil and store in the fridge for up to 1 day to preserve freshness. Bake the breadsticks a few hours in advance and store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes before serving to restore their warm, fresh-baked feel.
Nutrition
Serving: 12 servings | Calories: 313kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 62mg | Sodium: 1025mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 268IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 218mg | Iron: 1mg