Petite Charcuterie Recipe

Choose a small wooden board or slate roughly 6–8 inches across. Place the board on a flat surface where it will be served.

Have a small cheese knife, a small spoon for honey/mustard, and toothpicks or small forks ready for guests.

Prepare and arrange meats

Fold the prosciutto slices into loose ribbons or gentle rosettes (fold each slice in half lengthwise then drape and roll). Arrange the prosciutto on one side of the board in a small cluster.

Fan the soppressata or salami slices in an overlapping row next to the prosciutto. For the chorizo, stack and slightly overlap slices into a small pile or fan to add color contrast.

Leave space between meat sections so guests can pick pieces without crowding cheeses.

Soft cheese

Place the 60 g soft cheese (brie or camembert) whole or as a small wedge near the center of the board. If whole, score the top with an X for easy spreading. Drizzle 1 tsp olive oil lightly over the top if desired and grind a little black pepper over it.

Semi-firm cheese

Arrange the 60 g semi-firm cheese (aged cheddar or manchego) as 4–6 small wedges or slices. Fan these next to the soft cheese, leaving a small gap for crackers.

Firm/crumbly cheese

Crumble or slice the 40 g goat cheese log (or small piece of blue) into bite-size pieces and place in a small pile with a cheese knife so guests can spread or pick pieces.

Place the cornichons in a small neat pile in a corner or in a tiny bowl if you have one.

Scatter the marcona or roasted almonds in a small cluster opposite the meats, leaving a little space so they don’t roll off the board.

Tuck the dried apricots near the cheeses so they can be paired with both soft and firm varieties.

In a small ramekin or directly on the board, spoon 1 tbs honey and 1 tsp grainy mustard. Position a small spoon or knife for each so guests can portion easily.

Arrange 6 slices of baguette or crostini in a fan or stacked slightly leaning against the cheese. Place 6 assorted crackers in a small stack or fanned group near the semi-firm cheese.

Make sure crackers are easy to reach without knocking over other components.

Tuck the small sprig of rosemary or thyme into an open space for visual appeal and a fragrant accent.

Sprinkle a little freshly ground black pepper over the soft cheese or across the board to finish. Place toothpicks or small forks nearby for easy picking.

Check that every ingredient has a small serving utensil or is arranged for easy self-service. Wipe any spills on the board edge and serve immediately.