In college, it is easy to get stuck in the cycle of eating the same meals over and over again. Either from lack of time, laziness, or simply the comfort in routine, it is hard to break up this cycle. However, an easy way to escape this loophole is in the form of a pretty common yet versatile appetizer: charcuterie boards.
This snack, made up of so many different foods that it could be a meal, has become especially popular in college living as young adults have discovered the fun to be had in making a board. While there are multiple ways to create these masterpieces, and the internet has created trends such as “board nights,” there are certain ingredients that are always incorporated into the boards without fail.
Let’s unpack the must-have ingredients of a charcuterie board and what makes it a college, holiday, and adulting favorite.
Charcuterie Board Components
A charcuterie board is not complete without its crunchy base: crackers and bread. These elements are the heart of the board, allowing for a selection of spreads, meats, and toppings to be layered with each other. Either on an open-face cracker sandwich or dipped like chips and salsa, crackers are essential. Not only do they allow guests to experiment with the different flavors on board, but to prepare themselves a plate with every bite.
Next up, we have the spreads. For the spreads, there is a variety of ways to go, but the main flavors found typically remain. Without a doubt, a charcuterie board should have a fig spread, or its sister-spread, the apricot spread. These flavors bring the perfect amount of sweetness to the savory. A perfect bite consists of a crunchy cracker or warm piece of bread, layered with a thick layer of sweet goodness.
Following the yummy base and sweet spreads is the range of cheeses found on the charcuterie board. Some main staples are brie, gouda, havarti, and maybe some chunks of parmesan being spread out. Each cheese offers a unique flavor profile to the selection. Brie offers a rich, creamy texture and mild flavor that works well with savory meats and crackers. Gouda’s smooth texture and nutty flavor are the perfect addition to a warm piece of bread. Chunks of parmesan bring a sharp, intense flavor with some crunch in order to accompany the other flavors with its richness.
Meats are essential to the boards as well. Ranging from salami, prosciutto, and different forms of hams, they add bulk to the board. Layered on each bite, each ham complements the bread and the cheeses perfectly, as well as complementing each other. My personal favorite is layering the prosciutto and salami on top of a warm piece of bread, fig spread, and brie. It’s a perfect bite.
Fruits and nuts are commonly found in the smaller, fill-in spaces. Some must-haves include strawberries, grapes, and blueberries. For the nuts, anything is welcome. Almonds, candied pecans, walnuts, etc. Sometimes, dried fruit will make an appearance, too, from dried mangos to apricots.
Types of Boards
Although these ingredients make up the staple boards, sometimes there are differences. You can make sweet boards consisting of chocolates, candied nuts, pretzels, and different warm cookies. It’s also fun to experiment with boards of different cuisines, such as taco boards, pasta boards, or even Chick-fil-A boards! I do have to say, my all-time favorite will always be the typical French charcuterie.
Whenever you are looking for a fun, interactive appetizer, the charcuterie board will always be your best bet. It is the easiest thing to personalize. You can make an individualized one, or you can invite the entire friend group over and make it together. While gathering the ingredients and putting together your aesthetic board is pretty easy, you’ll find the hardest part is stopping everyone from eating it in the process!