Charcuterie Platter Checklist

A charcuterie lunch or afternoon snack is a fantastic way to have a perfect summer night with friends that you’ll remember for years to come.

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Meats

1. Cured Meats:
   • Salami
   • Prosciutto
   • Chorizo
   • Soppressata
2. Sliced Deli Meats:
   • Roast Beef
   • Turkey
   • Ham

Cheeses

1. Soft Cheeses:
   • Brie
   • Camembert
   • Goat Cheese
2. Semi-Soft Cheeses:
   • Havarti
   • Fontina
3. Hard Cheeses:
   • Cheddar
   • Gouda
   • Parmigiano-Reggiano
4. Blue Cheeses:
   • Gorgonzola
   • Roquefort

Fruits

1. Fresh Fruits:
   • Grapes
   • Apple Slices
   • Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
   • Fig Halves
2. Dried Fruits:
   • Apricots
   • Dates
   • Raisins
   • Dried Cranberries

Nuts

1. Almonds
2. Walnuts
3. Pistachios
4. Cashews

Breads and Crackers

1. Crackers:
   • Water Crackers
   • Whole Grain Crackers
   • Seeded Crackers
2. Breads:
   • Baguette Slices
   • Breadsticks
   • Sourdough

Spreads and Dips

1. Jams and Preserves:
   • Fig Jam
   • Apricot Jam
2. Honey
3. Mustards:
   • Dijon Mustard
   • Whole Grain Mustard
4. Hummus

Pickles and Olives

1. Pickles:
   • Cornichons
   • Pickled Onions
2. Olives:
   • Green Olives
   • Kalamata Olives

Garnishes

1. Fresh Herbs:
   • Rosemary
   • Thyme
2. Edible Flowers

Utensils and Accessories

1. Cheese Knives
2. Toothpicks or Skewers
3. Napkins and Serving Plates
4. Small Bowls for Nuts and Dips
5. Serving Platter or Board
6. Small Forks or Tongs

Tips for Assembly

1. Start with Larger Items: Place larger items like cheeses and bowls of spreads first.
2. Layer Meats: Fold or roll meats for a visually appealing look.
3. Fill in Gaps: Use smaller items like nuts, fruits, and olives to fill in gaps.
4. Balance Colors and Textures: Arrange items to balance colors and textures across the board.
5. Label Items: Consider labeling cheeses and meats, especially if you have a variety that guests may not recognize.

With this checklist, you’ll be well-prepared to create a delicious and aesthetically pleasing charcuterie platter that all your guests will love. The right accompanying drinks can further elevate the experience to new heights.

Enjoy!