Make a Simple Small Charcuterie Board

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a small snacking board perfect for before dinner or a light meal?

This simple small charcuterie board is easy to make and the perfect snacking board for just a few people. While many charcuterie boards are made from dozens of different ingredients, choosing just a few simple and delicious ingredients simplifies the whole process.

In the recipe below, we’ll show you exactl how to make this board as well as suggestions on how to make your simple small charcuterie board delicious and beautiful.

Selecting the Right Ingredients for a Simple Small Charcuterie Board

To keep your charcuterie board simple, take inventory of what ingredients you already have in your home. Look for fruit, vegetables, crackers, nuts, cheese and meats. Often you will already have the ingredients you need to make a small board.

Below you can see a list of the ingredients used to make this simple small charcuterie board:

• Tomatoes
• Grapes
• Salami
• Apples
• Mixed Nuts
• Cheddar Cheese
• Cucumbers
• Crackers

As you select ingredients for your board choose a selection of different colors and try to balance flavors and textures. Depending on the season, you may prefer fresh and crisp food, or rich and heavy foods. Get creative with your ingredients.

See our favorite charcuterie board ingredients.

Assembling the Charcuterie Board

Choosing the Right Serving Vessel: Selecting the right serving vessel is the foundation of your charcuterie board. Opt for a wooden cutting board, marble slab, or a rustic slate tile to add texture and warmth to your display. These materials not only provide a visually appealing backdrop but also create an ideal surface for arranging your charcuterie items.

Organizing the Space for an Appealing Display: The key to an eye-catching charcuterie board lies in its organization. Follow these steps to create an appealing arrangement:

1. Placing Central Items for Focus: Start by positioning your central items, which could be a striking wheel of aged cheese, a pâté, or a centerpiece of cured meats. These focal points draw attention and anchor the board, allowing you to build around them.
2. Arranging Smaller Elements for Balance: Next, surround the central items with an assortment of smaller elements. Slices of prosciutto draped elegantly, bite-sized chunks of cheese, and rolled salami provide variety and depth to the board. Distribute these elements evenly to maintain balance and make the display visually engaging.

Utilizing Small Bowls and Ramekins for Condiments: To add complementary flavors and textures, incorporate small bowls or ramekins filled with olives, pickles, honey, or mustard. These condiments not only enhance the taste of the charcuterie but also create visual interest and separate distinct flavors.

Adding a Garnish for a Finishing Touch: The finishing touch to your masterpiece is a garnish that elevates the overall presentation. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs, edible flowers, or citrus slices can add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to the charcuterie board.

When to Serve a Small Charcuterie Board

Intimate Gatherings: A small charcuterie board is perfect for hosting intimate gatherings with close friends or family. It sets a relaxed and inviting tone for conversations and bonding over delicious bites.

Wine Nights: Pairing a simple charcuterie board with a selection of wines can elevate any wine night. The combination of flavors enhances the wine tasting experience, making it enjoyable and memorable.

Casual Parties: Whether it’s a game night, a movie marathon, or a casual potluck, a small charcuterie board serves as an excellent appetizer option that requires minimal preparation, allowing you to focus on enjoying the event.

Tips for Serving and Sharing a Simple Small Charctuerie Board with Guests

1. Keep it Accessible: When serving the charcuterie board, ensure it is easily accessible to all guests. Place it at the center of the gathering space or have multiple boards spread around the room, encouraging everyone to gather around and interact.
2. Provide Serving Utensils: Include small cheese knives, cocktail forks, or toothpicks for guests to serve themselves without any hesitation. This also adds an interactive element as guests can select their favorite items.
3. Label Ingredients: If you’re serving a variety of cheeses, meats, or condiments, consider adding small tags or labels to help guests identify each item. This not only assists those with dietary preferences or restrictions but also sparks conversations about different flavors and origins.

Reducing Food Waste and Maximizing Value

1. Controlled Portions: Estimate the amount of charcuterie your guests are likely to consume to avoid excessive leftovers.
2. Plan Ahead: Be mindful of the expiration dates of your charcuterie ingredients and plan your charcuterie board accordingly.

Recipe for a Simple Small Charctuerie Board

Looking for more Charcuterie Board Ideas? Follow along with us on Pinterest.