As the leaves start to turn and the cold starts to creep in, our appetites often lean towards warm, hearty, and savory dishes. Embracing the flavors of fall and winter, a charcuterie board can be a centerpiece of seasonal gatherings.
Ahead, learn how to curate a savory charcuterie board for the colder months.
Start With a Solid Foundation
First, you’ll need a foundation for your charcuterie board. Consider a rustic wooden board, marble slab, or a ceramic platter. The size of your board is going to depend on the size of your gathering.
Cheese Selection
Cheese is often the star ingredient when it comes to charcuterie boards, and there are so many cheeses to consider, including dairy-free cheese options!
Here are some robust and earthy flavored cheeses to consider for your savory charcuterie board
- Aged Cheddar: Its sharpness can cut through the rich flavors of other items.
- Brie or Camembert: These creamy options pair well with fall fruits.
- Blue Cheese: This adds a touch of boldness to your spread.
- Gouda or Smoked Gouda: Their smokiness makes a great addition to a fall and winter flavored charcuterie board
- Dairy-Free Cheeses: Such as Miyoko’s artisan dairy-free cheese, or Dare dairy-free cheese.
Make a Festive Baked Brie
If using a Brie cheese for your savory charcuterie board, consider making this FitOn PRO festive baked brie recipe. It makes a delightful addition to any holiday-inspired charcuterie board.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 ounce) Brie wheel
- ⅓ cup whole berry cranberry sauce (such as Whole Foods brand)
- ¼ cup slivered almonds
- ¼ cup pistachios
- Fresh rosemary, to serve
- Fresh thyme, to serve
- Raw honey, to drizzle
- Extra virgin olive oil, to drizzle
- To serve: Crostini, crackers, Sliced baguette
Directions:
Step #1: Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F.
Step #2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step #3: Next, place the Brie wheel on the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until the middle is soft and starts to ooze.
Step #4: Remove the Brie from the oven and top with the cranberry sauce, slivered almonds, pistachios, freshly rosemary, thyme, and a drizzle of raw honey and olive oil.
Step #5: Serve with crostini, crackers, or a sliced baguette.
Meats
A blend of cured meats adds depth to your board:
- Prosciutto: Its saltiness can complement sweet elements on the board.
- Salami: Offer robust flavors that match well with cheeses.
- Chorizo: A bit of spice adds warmth to the palate.
Add the Fruits of the Season
Though this is a savory board, seasonal fruits can bring a slight sweetness and zest:
- Figs and Dates: These add a touch of sweetness and pairs well with cheese.
- Sliced Apples or Pears: Their crisp texture contrasts beautifully with creamy cheeses.
- Grapes: They add color and a burst of juicy flavor.
Pickled & Preserved Elements
Introduce an acidic component to cut through the richness:
- Olives: Mix green and black varieties.
- Pickled Onions: Their sharpness is an excellent contrast to the board’s fatty elements.
Crackers and Breads
Go for a variety:
- Whole Grain Mustard: A spread that complements many meats.
- Sliced Baguette: Toasted with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Flatbreads or Pita: Offering a crunch to the board.
- Dark Rye Crisps: Their earthy flavor suits the season.
Nuts & Seeds
For a crunch and richness:
- Roasted Almonds or Walnuts: These nuts carry a depth that resonates with the season.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Roast them for an added touch of fall.
Garnish
A touch of green elevates the aesthetics:
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme Sprigs: Their aroma is reminiscent of the season’s festive spirit.
- Red Berries or Pomegranate Seeds: Their vibrant colors hint at the winter holidays.
Arrangement
Layer and overlap ingredients. Start by placing cheeses at different board sections, then meats, filling in gaps with fruits, nuts, and other elements. This will give a lush, abundant look.
Savoring The Season With a Savory Charcuterie Board
A savory fall and winter charcuterie board, with its array of flavors and textures, is a delicious way to celebrate the season. Let your creativity flow, and don’t be afraid to adjust based on local and fresh ingredients available. Enjoy sharing this festive treat with loved ones!
