When I’m hosting and guests come over for an aperitivo or dinner, I love serving a sharing board along with our pre-dinner drinks. My go-to is always an easy-to-prep charcuterie board. However, this year, I’m very into the most delicious vegetarian version. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser and it’s something very easy I can put together in no time! And I love how sociable it feels – it gets everyone chatting, mingling and nibbling. Plus, you can get super creative with it. I mix up the flavours, textures and colours each time and it always looks gorgeous.
What to Include
Start with Cheese
Cheese is the foundation of my veggie charcuterie board. I like to get the finest creamy goat or Brie cheese as well as hard cheddar and Gouda. I usually pick these out at my local farmer’s markets or any traditional cheese shops around London where you can also get tips on the best wine or fruit to pair them with.
Add Crackers and Bread
Other staples in your board are crackers, breadsticks, oatcakes and fresh bread. They’re essential for pairing with the cheese or with any vegetables you might want to add. Include a variety, so guests can design their perfect bite-sized serving and make their own unique combinations – I think it’s quite fun!
Incorporate Antipasti
Antipasti bits add juicy, tangy flavours. Arrange sections of olives (stuffed kalamata are always popular!), sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, Padron peppers and most importantly – pickles!
Fresh Produce
Next, brighten up your board with fresh fruits and vegetables. Sliced apples, grapes, blackberries, figs (which pair great with cheese), or cherry tomatoes are great choices. Add crunchy raw vegetables like cucumber, rainbow bell peppers or carrots as well – they will also come in handy for what’s coming next.
Dips and Preserves
To round out your board, include extras like dips and spreads – think hummus, tapenade or tzatziki – nuts like pistachios and walnuts, and dried fruits like apricots, apple slices and mango. These elements add flavours, textures and colours which are absolutely essential ingredients for the perfect shared board. Make sure to balance the savoury elements with a touch of sweetness by also including a selection of jams and preserves, such as quince jelly. These sweet treats will pair beautifully with cheese and bread, offering a delightful contrast.
Arranging Your Board
- I like to start by placing the cheeses on opposite corners or in the centre of the board. And add cheese knives or spoons.
- Position the crackers and bread around the cheeses, making sure they’re easily accessible.
- Add the antipasti pieces in small bowls or directly on the board in clusters.
Fill in the gaps with fresh produce, ensuring the colours work well together - Add your dips, preserves and jellies in small jars or little dishes, placing them near the cheese and crackers for easy pairing.
- Scatter the nuts and dried fruits about in little clumps.
- Garnish with some fragrant herbs and flowers like thyme, lavender and chives.
- Pair with some white wine or Prosecco or a mocktail, I’ve put together quite a few delicious recipes here
xx,
