Meat & Cheese Board Recipe

Slice and arrange

Remove cheeses from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before serving to reach room temperature. Slice the manchego into thin wedges, cut the cheddar into 1/2" cubes or thin slices, and partially slice the brie (leave the wheel intact but make radial cuts for easy serving). Fold or fan the prosciutto into loose ribbons and arrange the soppressata/salami in overlapping rounds.

Rinse grapes and keep them on the stem for visual appeal; pat dry. If using figs, quarter them; if using pears, thinly slice and toss lightly with a squeeze of lemon to prevent browning. Thinly slice the citrus into rounds or half-moons and remove seeds.

Place mixed olives in a small bowl on the board to contain brine. Arrange cornichons or other pickles similarly. Spoon honey into a small dipping dish and place near the brie (drizzling honey over a wedge of brie is a classic combination). Place whole grain mustard in a small dish as well.

Arrange an assortment of crackers in small piles around the board, interspersing with toasted baguette slices if using. Tuck small sprigs of rosemary or thyme between items for fragrance and color. Lightly crack black pepper over the soft cheese (brie) and some fruit if desired.

Choose a large wooden board or slate. Start by placing cheeses spaced evenly across the board to act as anchors. Add cured meats near cheeses that pair well (e.g., prosciutto near brie, soppressata near cheddar). Fill gaps with clusters of grapes and seasonal fruit. Nestle the small bowls of olives, cornichons, honey, and mustard into open spaces. Scatter crackers and baguette slices around edges so guests can access them easily. Ensure a balance of colors and textures—meat folds, cheese wedges, round fruit clusters, and small bowls.

Allow the assembled board to rest 5–10 minutes at room temperature so cheeses soften further. Provide cheese knives or spreaders for each cheese and small spoons for honey and mustard. Serve with extra napkins and encourage guests to combine meats, cheeses, fruit, and condiments on crackers.