The holidays are over and you’ve probably done enough cooking, entertaining, and indulging to last the next two months – but there are technically still a few more days of the Christmas season to celebrate, plus an entire winter ahead to curl up and enjoy a relaxing treat!
You have probably made or snacked on a charcuterie board in the past, but typically this isn’t the healthiest part of the buffet. In this post, I’m eager to share some simple, no-fuss, and most importantly healthy strategies to build a delicious snack board this month!
First, I’d like to clarify that the word “charcuterie” is a French term that means “prepared meat products” and typically includes bacon, ham, sausage, and a variety of delicatessen items. However, just because proteins may be included in the dish, it doesn’t mean they can’t be complemented by an assortment of tasty fruits, veggies, nuts, dips, cheeses, and crackers! I find that the most appealing aspect of a “charcuterie” board is the variety and balance of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
A charcuterie board gives you the opportunity to try new foods and pair foods that you wouldn’t ordinarily think to do if they were not already sitting on the same plate. For example, as I was eating from the board pictured above, I tried combining a tangy sun-dried tomato with a salty pretzel and a slice of creamy Goat-style Cheddar cheese. I haven’t had sun-dried tomatoes in years and I typically don’t care for them on their own. I also don’t usually snack on pretzels, but when I put them all together, they tasted amazing!
Also, I don’t usually reach for plain raw carrots – but after nibbling on other rich and salty foods, the crunchy, palate-cleansing carrots became exceptionally appealing in between bites!
Planning and Assembling Your Healthy Charcuterie Board
Select 1-2 options from each category and arrange it on a large cutting board!
Veggies:
- sliced cucumber
- sliced radishes
- grape tomatoes
- sliced carrots
Fruits:
- grapes
- dried apricots
- apple slices
- raisins
Nuts:
- pistachios
- roasted almonds
- brazil nuts
- toasted walnuts
- candied pecans
Proteins:
- turkey roll-ups
- hard-boiled eggs
- falafel (homemade or store-bought)
- salted edamame
Dips:
- hummus (homemade or store bought)
- whipped goat cheese (use a hand mixer!)
Crackers:
- Simple Mills almond crackers (Simple Mills has many delicious gluten-free options!)
- brown rice cakes
- sweet potato chips (Terra brand is delicious!)
- mini pretzels
Cheese:
- sliced Parmesan
- cheddar
- Trader Joe’s Goat-style Cheese Cheddar is delicious!
- dairy-free cheeses (22 Best Dairy-Free Cheese Recipes)
Extras:
- olives
- sun-dried tomatoes
- roasted chickpeas
The Many Uses of a Charcuterie Board
A charcuterie board does not have to be saved for parties and special occasions. They are especially enjoyed in the evenings along with a glass of tea or wine (especially after kids are asleep!!!) They can also serve as a simple and quick dinner on a Sunday evening.
I encourage you to get creative and pick 1 or 2 items that you don’t usually eat often to add to your board, such as shelled pistachios, dried apricots, radishes, or sweet potato chips! I promise – you won’t be disappointed!!
For completely gluten-free and dairy-free charcuterie board options, check out Meghan Telpner’s post here.
