The White Table Blog

Dec 9

CHARCUTERIE For The Holidays

Charcuterie Boards for Christmas: The Dos and Don’ts You Need to Know. The holidays are here, which means it’s officially grazing season. There’s no better centerpiece for your Christmas gathering than a stunning charcuterie board. But not all boards are created equal, and let me tell you—there are some major offenders lurking in your holiday spread.

I’m here to save your board (and your reputation) from culinary chaos. Let’s talk about the dos and don’ts of Christmas charcuterie, Platter Girl style.

Don’t: Cranberry Sauce from a Can (Barf)

I know it’s a holiday classic for some, but cranberry sauce from the can has no place on your charcuterie board. That wobbly, canned cylinder of sugary mush is a texture killer and an aesthetic disaster. If you love cranberry, make a fresh batch with real berries, orange zest, and a touch of honey. Or you can find delish alternatives to homemade at Trader Joes like their Orange Cranberry relish they have around this time of year. It’s festive, flavorful, and miles ahead of the gelatinous blob.

Do: Seasonal Touches That Scream “Holiday”

Think rosemary sprigs, pomegranate arils, candied nuts, and dried orange slices. These ingredients not only taste amazing but also double as decorations. A scattering of fresh herbs adds that “snowy forest” vibe, while ruby-red pomegranate seeds bring a pop of Christmas cheer.

Don’t: Grocery Store Cheddar and Ritz Crackers

Look, I love a good bargain, but your Christmas board isn’t the place for your kid’s lunchbox staples. Ditch the processed cheddar and overused crackers. Your board deserves high-quality cheeses—think creamy brie, nutty aged gouda, or a festive cranberry-studded Wensleydale. And don’t forget artisanal crackers or baguette slices to elevate the whole experience.

Do: A Cheese Variety That Wows

Aim for three to five cheeses with a mix of textures and flavors. Include a soft cheese (brie or camembert), a hard cheese (Spanish Manchego or aged cheddar), and something funky (blue cheese or a goat log). For an extra holiday twist, incorporate a cheese infused with festive flavors like cinnamon, cranberry, or truffle.

Don’t: Raw Vegetables That Nobody Eats

Baby carrots and raw broccoli? Hard pass. Not only do they feel out of place on a luxe Christmas board, but they also lack the decadence the holidays demand. Save those for the crudités platter.

Do: Roasted or Pickled Veggies

Instead of raw, opt for roasted Brussels sprouts, honey-glazed carrots, or pickled green beans. These bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of sophistication to your board.

Don’t: Overwhelmingly Sweet Elements

It’s tempting to load up on sugary treats, but remember: your board is about balance. Too many cookies, chocolate, and candied fruits can turn your charcuterie from savory to saccharine.

Do: Balance Sweet and Savory

A well-balanced board includes savory meats, tangy cheeses, and just the right amount of sweetness. Try dark chocolate bark with sea salt, honeycomb, or a seasonal fruit like persimmons. These elements should complement—not overpower—the savory stars of the board.

Don’t: Forget the Meats

Cheese boards are great, but a true charcuterie board needs meat. Skip the bland deli slices and go for meats that pack a punch. Prosciutto, salami, and coppa are classics that never fail.

Do: Add Unexpected Meat Options

Take your board up a notch with festive additions like pâté, smoked salmon, or even a holiday-themed sausage like venison or cranberry-studded salami. These are the touches your guests will remember.

Do: Two Standout Spreads

Stick to two stellar spreads, like a whole-grain mustard and a sweet-savory chutney. Bonus points if one of them is homemade! A simple honey drizzle over a wedge of blue cheese is a crowd-pleaser that looks elegant without adding clutter.

Don’t: Forget Dietary Restrictions

The holidays are a time to be inclusive, and that means considering your guests’ dietary needs. A board loaded with dairy and pork isn’t going to work for everyone.

Do: Offer Inclusive Options

Add a vegan cheese or a nut-based spread, gluten-free crackers, or a small section of plant-based charcuterie. Trust me, your vegan and gluten-free friends will thank you.

Don’t: Ignore Presentation

Throwing a pile of cheese cubes and some crackers on a plate isn’t “rustic”—it’s lazy. Presentation matters, especially during the holidays.

Do: Style Like a Pro

Arrange your cheeses in a variety of shapes (slices, wedges, or whole rounds) and fan out your meats for a rose-like effect. Use small bowls for messier items and create levels by stacking or layering ingredients. Finally, fill any empty spaces with fresh herbs, nuts, or dried fruits for a polished look.

Don’t: Rely Solely on Pinterest Ideas

Pinterest is great for inspiration, but copying someone else’s board exactly can feel stale. Plus, many Pinterest boards prioritize looks over flavor.

Do: Make It Personal

Add a touch of you to the board. Use local ingredients, your favorite family recipe for spiced nuts, or a signature garnish that reflects your personality. My boards always feature Oregon-sourced cheeses and edible flowers because they represent who I am and where I’m from.

The Final Word on Christmas Charcuterie

A holiday charcuterie board should feel special, inviting, and just a little indulgent. By following these dos and avoiding the don’ts, you’ll create a board that’s not only stunning but also truly delicious.