You’ve likely seen them on Instagram, admired them at parties, and may have even attempted one yourself, only to end up with a few sad chunks of cheese, sweaty meat, and a pile of crackers. But with the help of charcuterie stylist Dawn Aviles, creating a board has never been easier.
Step One: Select the Board
If you don’t already have the ideal wooden charcuterie board, chances are you can find one in a pinch at a local grocery store or online. Depending on the occasion, you can also choose to use your counter as a board and lay down parchment paper.
Step Two: Gather the Ingredients
You may think you need to outsource fancy meats and cheeses to wow your guests, but to Aviles, Central Market and HEB combine quality and affordability. Though she may opt to acquire more high-end ingredients depending on the occasion, as well as making her own crackers, bread, and jams, she suggests simply buying your favorite selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, crackers, and more, aiming for 3 oz of meat and 3 oz of cheese per person. A variation in color and texture in both the food and decoration elevates the aesthetic.
Step Three: Assembly Time
Start simply by creating a centerpiece. Use a sliced wheel of brie or a bowl of jam to build around. From folding the meat to create a flower or simply cutting the cheese into triangles, there is no wrong way to style the food. Add the meats, cheese, crackers, fruit, or nuts around the center and try to keep a variation of textures and colors.
Step Four: Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor
Watch as your guests’ faces light up at the sight of your homemade charcuterie board. Decorate the table around it with festive fall decor to add an extra flair. And if you aren’t satisfied, allow the experts at Vivi’s Boards to cater your next event.