Celebrate Summer with a Stunning Charcuterie Spread

Summer is for enjoying good company and delicious foods, and what better way to do so than by grazing on a charcuterie board loaded with tasty meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts and more? Crafting a beautiful platter is easier than you think – here’s how:

> Start with the Meats: The star of any charcuterie board? A variety of flavorful, cured meats! For an easy and affordable option, pick up some thinly sliced salami or prosciutto from the deli counter. Summer is also prime time for grabbing a few dried sausages, like dry-cured chorizo or pepperoni. Get at least three different meat varieties for a diverse spread.

> Let’s Get Cheesy: You can’t have charcuterie without cheese! Aim for a mix of textures like a soft, creamy Brie, a firm aged Cheddar, and something funky like a blue. Or keep it simple with fresh mozzarella, Monterey Jack and Gouda. Tear or slice the cheese into bite-size portions.

> Load Up on Crunch: Buttery crackers, artisanal bread slices, crunchy breadsticks and crisp flatbreads are perfect for loading up with toppings from the board.

> Summertime Fruit Medley: One of the highlights of summer is all the fresh, juicy produce! Brighten your board with grapes, berries, sliced peaches or nectarines, melon chunks and fresh figs. A mix of colors and textures makes it extra appealing.

> Savory Sidekicks: Don’t forget the briny olives, tart pickles, spicy Peppadew peppers, marinated artichokes, roasted nuts and other savory accents that add so much flavor and crunch. A simple olive mix and some candied nuts make an easy upgrade.

> Sweet Finishing Touches: For a touch of sweetness, include a drizzle of honey, a dollop of jammy fruit spread like fig or apricot, or even a handful of dark chocolate pieces.

> Arrange It Beautifully: On a large wooden board or platter, arrange all your elements in an intentional yet rustic way, creating pockets for nuts, fruit and other accents. Tuck in small bowls for dips or spreads, and garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme or mint.

With these simple steps, you can effortlessly elevate any summer hangout with a gorgeous, grazing-friendly charcuterie board. Pair it with your favorite summer sips, and you’ve got the perfect warm weather spread.