Charcuterie boards require minimal effort but deliver big on flavour, making them the perfect for parties. There’s something for everyone on a board packed with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and crackers, plus the no-cook factor means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time talking to your guests. The problem with charcuterie boards is we don’t always know how to put them together, but Meinhardt is here to help.
   
Here are some tips to make your next charcuterie board stand out:
 
The best platters offer an assortment of different textures and flavours of cheese; from sharp firm cheeses to soft and aromatic types, a good platter will have it all. For extra variety try using cheeses make from different kinds of milk such as cow and goat. Brie, soft goat cheese, extra old cheddar, smoked gouda, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Emmental, and blue cheese will give a variety of taste and texture.

Select a wide range of different proteins such as pork, beef, duck, smoked meat, and pâtés. Prosciutto, hot Soppressata, salami, and a smooth pâté are perfect for bringing your charcuterie board to life.
 
Once your meats and cheeses are selected its time to work on the accompaniments. Use a contrast of sweet and savoury accompaniments. Jams, honey, preserves, mustards, dried fruits, toasted nuts, and a selection of olives and pickled vegetables are perfect for finishing off any board.
   
For your final step, add a variety of soft bread and crackers. Sliced baguette, focaccia bread, whole grain buns, crostini, breadsticks, and flavoured crackers are perfect. Now that you have our favourite tips, it's time for you to show off your new skills! We want to see your creations - don't forget to tag us when you share them with your friends on social media. We can't wait to see all your creations!

Writer + Editor: Melody Yip - Vancouver, BC