How to Make a Cheese Board
This abundant cheese board brings together a variety of cheeses, Italian cured meats, fruit, olives, bread, and other accompaniments. Use the center-and-four-corners method to arrange it in about 30 minutes, with plenty of variety for guests to build their own bites.
Servings: 4 to 20
Ingredients
For the Cheese (Choose 4 options; plan on 1 to 2 ounces per person.)
- Hard cheeses, such as Parmigiano-Reggiano and sharp cheddar
- Soft cheeses, such as brie and creamy Greek feta
- Semi-soft cheese, such as sliced Swiss
- Another favorite, such as sliced cheddar
For the Meats (Choose 3 to 4 options; plan on 1 to 2 ounces per person.)
- Prosciutto di Parma
- Salami, hard or soft
- Coppa or Hot Capicola
For the Accompaniments
- Crackers and thinly sliced breads
- Fresh vegetables and fruit, such as cucumbers, grapes, sliced pears, or apples
- Dried figs and honey or jam
- Olives and other marinated items, such as artichokes
Other
- Personal favorites, such as homemade hummus and extra virgin olive oil for dipping
- Fresh herbs for garnish, such as dill, rosemary, or basil
Instructions
- Create the anchors. On a large wooden board or serving platter, place one ingredient in the center and four substantial items in the corners to establish the shape of the arrangement. I placed a bowl of hummus in the center, with a round of brie, a square of aged cheddar, a bowl of olives, and a bowl of creamy crumbled feta in the four corners.
- Fill the board. Arrange the remaining cheeses, meats, and accompaniments in the open spaces between the center and corners. Step back, look for gaps, and add more items as needed. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
- How much to serve: There are no hard rules, but plan on about 1 to 2 ounces each of cheese and meat per person. Keep extra nearby to replenish the board during a longer party.
- When to begin: I usually allow one hour. Take the cheeses out of the refrigerator but leave them wrapped so they do not dry out. Begin arranging the board about 30 minutes before guests arrive, then add the meats during the final 10 to 20 minutes.
- Make it your own: There is no single right way to build a cheese board. Start with your favorites and use what you have on hand. You can invest in one or two quality cheeses and use ready-sliced cheeses to fill out the board.
- Shop this recipe: Visit The Mediterranean Dish Shop for Greek honey, Greek fig jam, Mediterranean olives, and Greek extra virgin olive oil.
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