The world is full of charcuterie board ideas – scroll pinterest for a few minutes and you will likely come across a fun and fresh charcuterie board idea. While I love getting new ideas online, having a few charcuterie board books full of gorgeous and colorful photos on my shelf helps keep me inspired in the kitchen.
In this post you will find my suggestions for the best charcuterie board books to add to your shelf of give to a friend (you can find more gift ideas here). I have either owned or looked through all of these books! This list could easily have included 20 books as there are so many beautiful charcuterie books, but to make it easier, Ive narrowed it down to just these 5.
Contents
- 1 The Best Charcuterie Board Books
- 1.1 On Boards: Simple & Inspiring Recipe Ideas to Share at Every Gathering: A Cookbook
- 1.2 Charcuterie Board Cookbook: the Art on the Table
- 1.3 The Cheese Board Deck
- 1.4 Complete Charcuterie: Over 200 Contemporary Spreads for Easy Entertaining
- 1.5 Graze: Inspiration for Small Plates and Meandering Meals: A Charcuterie Cookbook
- 2 What to Look for in a Charcuterie Board Book
The Best Charcuterie Board Books
In “On Boards,” Lisa Bolton, a food stylist, has curated 50 ideas for easily accessible boards, designed for effortless entertaining. Additionally, the book features 52 recipes for delightful savory and sweet additions, including dishes like Beet Hummus, Bourbon Bacon Jam, Mashed Potato Dip, and Chocolate Salami.
I like that most of the ingredients for these boards are easy to find and aren’t specialty items that can be hard to track down
Charcuterie Board Cookbook: the Art on the Table
In contemporary times, charcuterie boards frequently grace restaurant menus as a popular appetizer, showcasing its widespread appeal. Embracing a farm-to-table concept, it seamlessly fits into current trends of healthy eating, and its inherent visual charm makes it a versatile choice for various occasions – making it an ideal option for your upcoming date.
This book is full of stunning photos and creative ideas for boards and is a favorite in our home.
The Cheese Board Deck
Ok – so this one is technically not a book, but this card deck has individual recipes on cards with gorgeous photos and ingredients. Why do I love this card deck? It’s so easy to just take one of the cards to the grocery store with you.
Complete Charcuterie: Over 200 Contemporary Spreads for Easy Entertaining
This is a very good book with smoe beautiful photos and creative recipes. It makes my list, but there are a few recipes without photos which is always difficult to visualize when you are making a charcuterie board.
Graze: Inspiration for Small Plates and Meandering Meals: A Charcuterie Cookbook
This is a stunning book! While it may not be your go-to for simple recipes, it’s a unique gem that transcends the typical cookbook. I find myself usibng it for food pairing and inspiration and not just the recipes. The author’s expertise in pairing foods is evident, and her candid approach to eating, complete with personal stories, enhances the connection to meals. A true food enthusiast with an artistic touch, this book is a delightful intersection of culinary and artistic expertise!
What to Look for in a Charcuterie Board Book
Depending on what you’re looking for in a charcuterie board book, you may want to consider some of the things below. When I am choosing a charcuterie book – my top considerations are: quality of the photos and creativity.
- Comprehensive Recipes: Seek a charcuterie board book that offers a diverse range of recipes covering various meats, cheeses, and accompaniments for a well-rounded selection.
- Step-by-Step Instructions: Look for clear and detailed instructions on assembling and presenting charcuterie boards, suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
- Ingredient Varieties: Ensure the book provides options for different types of cured meats, cheeses, and complementary items to cater to various tastes and preferences.
- Visual Appeal: Choose a book with visually appealing photography or illustrations that showcase the presentation and arrangement of charcuterie boards for inspiration.
- Tips and Tricks: A good charcuterie board book should include tips and tricks on pairing flavors, textures, and incorporating creative elements to enhance the overall experience.
- Seasonal and Theme Suggestions: Look for books that offer ideas for seasonal or themed charcuterie boards, allowing for versatility and creativity in your presentations.
- Beverage Pairing Recommendations: Find a book that includes suggestions for beverage pairings such as wine, beer, or cocktails to complement the flavors of the charcuterie board.
- Customization Options: Opt for a book that encourages experimentation and customization, allowing you to tailor the boards to your taste preferences and the occasion.
- User-Friendly Format: Choose a book with an easy-to-follow format, including a table of contents, index, and well-organized sections for quick reference and efficient use.
