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This Halloween charcuterie board is designed to delight guests with a mix of savory meats, rich cheeses, and fresh fruits arranged in a visually stunning and spooky presentation. It requires no cooking and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making it perfect for any festive gathering from lively parties to quiet evenings.
I first created this board for a Halloween gathering and was amazed by how everyone enjoyed the mix of flavors and creative presentation. It’s now my go to appetizer for holiday parties.
Ingredients
- Gorgonzola cheese: creamy and tangy A classic blue cheese that adds bold flavor choose a creamy, high quality variety
- Cheddar cheese sliced: sharp and familiar Pick a good mature cheddar for strong flavor slicing makes assembly easier
- Aged Provolone sliced: nutty and firm Adds depth and texture to the cheese selection slices are visually appealing
- Goat’s cheese: soft and fresh Use a fresh mild cheese for balance and creamy contrast
- Salami: savory and slightly spicy Look for thin slices with good marbling for tenderness and flavor
- Chorizo: smoky and rich Adds smoky depth Spanish style works well if you like a bit of heat
- Prosciutto: delicate and salty Choose thinly sliced prosciutto for easy folding and a melt in your mouth feel
- Almonds: crunchy and nutty Add texture to the board raw or roasted depending on preference
- Blackberries: sweet and tart Fresh berries bring color and a burst of freshness
- Black grapes: juicy and mild Use whole small bunches for easy picking and a sweet bite
- Tomato jam: sweet and tangy Offers a unique flavor contrast to meats and cheeses homemade or store bought works fine
- Cornichons: tart and crunchy Small pickled cucumbers add acidity that cuts through rich flavors
- Green olives: briny and savory Look for firm olives with a good bite
- Crackers: crispy and neutral Choose sturdy crackers that hold toppings well and vary shapes for visual interest
Instructions
- Arrange your Workspace:
- Start with a large wooden board or platter that fits your servings Clear enough space for arranging bowls and ingredients with room to mix colors and textures
- Set Out Small Bowls:
- Place small bowls for olives tomato jam and cornichons in different sections of the board to contain their juices and keep the presentation neat
- Add the Cheeses:
- Slice the firmer cheeses such as cheddar and provolone into wedges or batons for easy grabbing Keep softer cheeses like goat cheese whole and place cheese knives nearby to help with serving
- Arrange the Meats:
- Roll or fold sliced meats like salami chorizo and prosciutto into bite sized shapes Position these between cheese sections to create visual balance and easy access
- Add Crackers or Bread:
- Stack crackers or bread slices on one or two sides of the board Variety in shapes adds interest and makes the dipping combinations more fun
- Fill with Fruits and Nuts:
- Nestle blackberries and black grapes in the remaining spaces to add pops of color and freshness Scatter or bowl almonds as crunchy accents
- Final Touches:
- Step back and fill any gaps with additional fruit nuts or small herb sprigs for color contrast if you like Make sure everything is evenly spread and visually appealing
This board is a feast for the eyes and the palate. My favorite ingredient is the tomato jam because it adds an unexpected touch of sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the cured meats. One year my family all gathered around sampling and chatting well into the evening creating memories that made this simple spread feel truly special.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to two days but best consumed fresh Keep moist items like fruits separate from crackers to avoid sogginess
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap in different cheeses like manchego or brie depending on what you enjoy Turkey or ham slices can replace traditional cured meats for a lighter option Dried fruits can be used instead of fresh berries during off season times
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a crisp white wine or sparkling cider to balance the saltiness and richness Add small bowls of honey or mustard for guests who want extra flavor layers Provide individual plates and small forks or toothpicks to make it easy to eat standing up at parties
Enjoy assembling and sharing this spooky charcuterie board with friends and family. It makes a festive and effortless centerpiece for Halloween gatherings.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What types of cheeses are best for this board?
Firm cheeses like aged provolone and cheddar can be sliced into wedges, while soft cheeses such as goat's cheese are best left whole to enhance texture variety.
- → How should I arrange the meats and cheeses?
Fold or roll sliced meats like salami and prosciutto, placing them between cheese sections to create visual appeal and easy access for guests.
- → Are there any tips for selecting fruits and nuts?
Choose seasonal fruits like blackberries and grapes for freshness and color contrast; almonds add crunch and complement the creamy cheeses well.
- → How can I make the board more festive for Halloween?
Use a dark platter or autumn-themed decorations around the board. Incorporate tomato jam and olives in small bowls for added flavor and a pop of color.
- → Is cooking required for this board?
No cooking is necessary, making it a quick and easy option for last-minute gatherings or casual entertaining.