Cheese Boards

Maybe it started when my Mom would buy me Lunchables growing up, but I have always preferred a cheese board to a traditional meal. Give me a deconstructed sandwich over traditional any day. Oh my! The deconstructed pho at DaLat? Yum! But that’s a blog for another day. Today is all about charcuterie. And my obsessive love of a deconstructed meal.

You can make a fabulous board with anything. Needed: Salami. Cheddar. Simple brie, Olives (go for pitted). Grapes. Water crackers. Lay the salami in a cool pattern. Slice the cheddar and layer in a row. If not already marinated in olive oil and seasonings, drizzle fresh rosemary and olive oil over your olives. Leave the grapes on the bunch. Unwrap the brie and place whole. Spread the crackers out. Place all the ingredients on a wooden cutting board and it looks fancy as can be. I use my hands, but tongs are more delicate. And probably cleaner with multiple guests.

Everything else is extra. Great extras: Fig jam in a small glass dish. Try that with brie and a cracker, oh my. Marinated feta with your olives. Fancy crackers and breads. Prosciutto presented in individual piles. Dried apricots. The list is endless and as creative as your imagination.

Now pour some wine and build a customized tray because it’s Thursday night and you’re hungry. Or impress your friends the next time they’re over with your charcuterie spread.

Cheers,
Jana