How to Make a Charcuterie Board: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a charcuterie board is an art that combines visual appeal with culinary delight. At Olive & Fig, we specialize in crafting exceptional boards that elevate gatherings of all sizes. Whether you're hosting an intimate wine night or planning a grand event, this guide will help you create a stunning charcuterie board, inspired by our premium ingredients and thoughtful design.

Step 1: Choose the Perfect Base

Begin by selecting a sturdy and visually appealing base for your charcuterie board. Popular choices include wooden platters, marble slabs, or reusable serving boards. Consider your event size:

• Small Gatherings: A classic platter for 4–8 people.

• Large Events: Opt for expansive grazing tables, like our Grazing Goodness Board, which serves up to 50 guests.

Pro Tip: Choose a base that complements your theme. For rustic charm, a natural wood slab works wonders; for modern elegance, marble boards steal the show.

Check out Canadian-made Ottercreek Woodworks to order your perfect base for building your own charcuterie board.  You can also find beautiful boards at Canadian Tire, HomeSense and Indigo. 

Step 2: Curate a Variety of Cheeses

A great charcuterie board is anchored by an array of cheeses offering diverse flavors and textures. Here’s what to include:

• Soft Cheeses: Brie or goat cheese for a creamy bite.

• Hard Cheeses: Aged Cheddar or Gouda—opt for mature options for bold flavors.

• Unique Picks: Roquefort (blue cheese) or 9-Month Manchego for a sophisticated touch.

Actionable Tip: Pair cheeses with complementary condiments, like fig jam for Brie or honeycomb for blue cheese, to enhance their flavors.

To purchase some of the best cheeses in Toronto, visit Cheese Boutique, Alex Farm or our beloved La Salumeria for a wide selection of options. 

Step 3: Add Premium Cured Meats

Select high-quality cured meats to complement your cheeses and make your charcuterie cups stand out:

• Classic Choices: Prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni.

• Unique Additions: Chorizo or soppressata for bold flavor.

At Olive & Fig, we ensure every slice is sourced from premium suppliers for unmatched taste and presentation.

For freshly-sliced charcuterie, you must visit Carlo at La Salumeria where you'll also receive a wonderful welcome and education on the meats!

Step 4: Incorporate Fresh and Dried Accompaniments

Accompaniments elevate your charcuterie board with colour, texture, and balance. Here’s what to include:

• Fresh Fruits: Grapes, berries, or sliced apples for a vibrant fruit platter element.

• Dried Fruits: Figs or apricots for natural sweetness.

• Nuts: Almonds or pistachios for crunch.

Example:

Pair dried figs with blue cheese or add marinated olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Here's a link to one of our favourite marinated olives recipe,

Step 5: Add Bread and Crackers

No charcuterie board is complete without an array of breads and crackers. Popular options include:

• Artisan crackers

• Freshly baked focaccia

• Sourdough crostini

Actionable Tip: Toast bread slices with olive oil for a golden finish, adding both flavour and texture.

This is the first recipe we ever used to make focaccia - we highly recommend trying at home to wow your guest!

Step 6: Master the Presentation

The beauty of a charcuterie board lies in its visual appeal. Follow these styling tips:

• Group Similar Items: Keep cheeses, meats, and accompaniments together for easy access.

• Balance Colours: Distribute colourful items like berries or edible flowers evenly.

• Add Garnish: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or edible flowers for elegance.

For larger events, expand this idea into a grazing table with sprawling arrangements of meats, cheeses, fruits, and more. If you’re looking for expert tips on styling a charcuterie board, check out this step-by-step FAQ guide with arrangement ideas, ingredient selection, and creative display inspiration.

Step 7: Customize for Dietary Needs

Creating a charcuterie board that caters to dietary restrictions ensures all guests feel included:

• Vegan Boards: Use plant-based cheeses and roasted vegetables like watermelon radish.

• Gluten-Free Boards: Replace crackers with gluten-free options like seed-based crisps.

• Pro Tip: Add unique items like a smash cake as a dessert centerpiece for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries.

For additional guidance on building the perfect charcuterie board with dietary considerations in mind, this FAQ guide provides helpful insights on customization, ingredient swaps, and serving ideas.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

For optimal flavor, let cheeses sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes before serving. Pair your charcuterie board with carefully chosen wines, cocktails, or mocktails to elevate the experience.

Not sure how to perfectly serve and pair your cheeses? This expert FAQ guide offers storage tips, serving techniques, and pairing recommendations to enhance your charcuterie experience.