A charcuterie board is a fun and festive way to serve snacks or appetizers for any season or occasion. The most important elements of a charcuterie board are meats, cheeses, savory accompaniments, sweet accompaniments, and crackers. Here are some common items that can be included on a charcuterie board:

• Meats: Choose a variety of cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, ham, or pancetta. Rolled-up slices of genoa salami and thin slices of artfully piled ham, prosciutto, or pancetta curled into rose shapes add structure and visual interest.

• Cheeses: Choose a variety of hard and soft cheese, and cheese made from different animals (cow, sheep, goat). Some examples of hard cheeses are manchego, cheddar, swiss, gouda, gruyere, and parmesan.

• Savory accompaniments: Olives, pickles, mustard, and dips are great options to add some savory flavors to the board.

• Sweet accompaniments: Dried fruits, fresh fruits, jams, and honey can add some sweetness to the board.

• Crackers or bread: Choose a variety of crackers or small slices of bread to pair with the meats and cheeses.

• Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, and other nuts can add some crunch to the board.

• Herbs: Sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme can add some color and flavor to the board.

When assembling a charcuterie board, its important to choose a variety of items and arrange them in an aesthetically pleasing way. Start by arranging the plates/bowls on your board as a guide map of where things will go. Then, add the meats and cheeses, followed by the accompaniments and crackers or bread. Use in-season fruits and veggies to make it easy on yourself and add a few special touches for holidays.