How to Build the Perfect Charcuterie Board

How to Build the Perfect Charcuterie Board

Lianna Brook

A beautiful charcuterie board isn’t just about presentation—it’s about pairing flavours thoughtfully so every bite feels intentional. At The Farmer’s Kitchen, we curate boards that balance creamy, salty, sweet, fresh, and crunchy elements. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you build one at home with confidence

Start With Three to Four Cheeses

Choose cheeses with different textures and flavour profiles so your board feels balanced:

  • Soft & creamy: Brie or triple-cream for richness

  • Semi-soft: Gouda or Havarti for something mellow

  • Firm & aged: Cheddar or Manchego for sharp, savoury notes

  • Bold option: A small amount of blue cheese for contrast

Tip: Vary shapes (a wheel, a wedge, a cube) to make your board look visually inviting

Add Meats That Complement the Cheeses

Aim for a mix of mild, smoky, and bold:

  • Prosciutto for salty, delicate bites

  • Salami or soppressata for peppery depth

  • A spicy option like Calabrese for heat

  • Something smoked to bring warmth and richness

Fold or fan meats to add height and make serving easier

Layer in Sweet, Fresh & Crunchy Elements

This is where a board really comes to life. Think about contrast:

  • Fresh: Grapes, berries, cucumber, or apple slices

  • Crunchy: Nuts, baguette, artisan crackers

  • Briny: Olives or pickles to cut through richness

  • Sweet: Honey, jam, or dried fruit to balance salty cheeses

Every extra element helps create delicious combinations.

Arrange With Flow and Abundanc

  • Place cheeses first

  • Add meats around them

  • Fill gaps with fruit, nuts, crackers, and bowls of spreads

Your board should look full but not cluttered.

Prefer Something Ready-Made? We’ve Got You Covered.

Our pre-made charcuterie boxes at The Farmer’s Kitchen take all the guesswork out of hosting. Each box is curated with a perfectly balanced selection of meats, cheeses, spreads, and garnishes—so all you need is your board.