Save A festive and visually stunning charcuterie board inspired by winter sleigh rides, featuring an array of artisan cheeses, cured meats, seasonal fruits, and wintry accompaniments—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This charcuterie board has been my go-to festive centerpiece for holiday parties. Everyone loves the mix of cheeses and seasonal fruits.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 150 g aged cheddar, sliced, 150 g brie, cut into wedges, 120 g blue cheese, crumbled, 120 g gouda, cubed
- Cured Meats: 100 g prosciutto, 100 g salami, sliced, 80 g smoked ham, rolled
- Crackers & Breads: 1 baguette, sliced, 100 g assorted crackers, 60 g breadsticks
- Seasonal Fruits: 1 cup red grapes, halved, 1 cup green grapes, 2 pears, thinly sliced, 1 pomegranate, seeded, 1/2 cup dried apricots
- Accents & Garnishes: 1/2 cup candied pecans, 1/3 cup olives (green and black mix), 1/4 cup cornichons, 1/4 cup whole grain mustard, fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Select a large wooden board or platter. Arrange cheeses evenly, spacing them for easy access.
- Step 2:
- Fan out cured meats around the cheeses, folding or rolling for presentation.
- Step 3:
- Place crackers, bread slices, and breadsticks in small clusters or baskets.
- Step 4:
- Distribute fresh and dried fruits, filling in gaps and balancing color across the board.
- Step 5:
- Add candied pecans, olives, and cornichons in small bowls or directly on the board.
- Step 6:
- Place a small bowl of whole grain mustard near the meats.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs for a wintry touch.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.
Save This board always sparks joy and conversation among family and friends during our holiday gatherings.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, small bowls for condiments, cheese knives, small tongs or toothpicks
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheeses), tree nuts (pecans), gluten (bread, crackers), and may contain sulfites (cured meats, dried fruits). Check all ingredient labels for allergen information and potential cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 31 g, Protein: 13 g (per serving, estimated)
Save This sleigh ride charcuterie board is the perfect festive touch for your next holiday gathering.
Recipe Questions
- → What cheeses work well on this board?
Aged cheddar, brie, blue cheese, and gouda provide a balanced mix of sharp, creamy, and mild flavors ideal for this spread.
- → Can I substitute the cured meats for vegetarian options?
Yes, consider smoked tofu, marinated mushrooms, or plant-based deli slices to maintain variety and texture.
- → How should I arrange the board for best presentation?
Space cheeses evenly, fan cured meats around them, cluster crackers, and distribute fruits and garnishes to create color balance.
- → What pairs well with this spread for beverages?
Sparking wines, ciders, or a robust red wine complement the flavors and enhance the festive mood.
- → How long can the board be prepared in advance?
Assemble just before serving or cover and refrigerate for up to one hour to maintain freshness.
- → Are there allergen considerations to keep in mind?
Yes, this board contains dairy, tree nuts, gluten, and sulfites; always check labels for sensitive guests.