Lena's Kitchen

easy, elevated and approachable simple recipes for the everyday home cook

charcuterie

How To Build A Holiday Charcuterie Board

by

Learn How To Build a Holiday Charcuterie Board using this thorough guide. Filled with all of your holiday favorites, this beautiful board of bright flavors and delectable ingredients is sure to be the highlight of your next holiday party.

Jump to Recipe
Overhead view of a large platter layered in cheese, meat, crackers, fruit, pickles, olives, and berries.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Comté Cheese Association. All opinions are 100% mine.

Your guests this holiday season are going to run, not walk to this gorgeous and festive Holiday Charcuterie Board. 

Charcuterie boards are the perfect appetizer for holiday parties, New Year’s celebrations, or for a quiet night at home with some wine. Loaded with creamy Comté cheese, meat, crackers, fruit, and nuts, the flavors are bright, decadent, and classic to the season.

Just like my summer charcuterie board, I’ll guide you through all of the ingredients you need to make a cheese board for the holidays and how to assemble it. You can keep your fridge stocked with this list all season long so you’re prepared for any unexpected guests or last minute get togethers. It’s a flexible recipe you can make for two or 20 people!

What is a charcuterie board?

Charcuterie (pronounced “shahr-ku-tuh-ree”) is all about beautiful presentation and refined flavors. It’s a French word for cured meats, such as bacon, salami, and prosciutto. Nowadays, the word is associated with assembling meat products together with other accompaniments, such as dried fruits, nuts, and cheeses. 

A winter charcuterie board celebrates the season with grand displays of seasonal and warming ingredients. There are a few elements you need to make a small or large board that showcases the flavors of the holidays and winter weather.

Close up of cheese with a Comte label.

Elements you need to create the best holiday charcuterie

Use any or all of these elements in your holiday charcuterie platter:

Cheeses

I highly recommend using a delicate and creamy Comté cheese on your board. Pronounced Comté (“con – TAY”), this fresh cheese is handmade every day by artisans in about 150 small village cheesemaking facilities in the Jura Massif region of France. Comté is made with no additives or artificial colorants and controlled at each level of production, making it a pure and natural food.

This unique cheese is a staple for charcuterie boards. Each wheel has a distinct flavor and aroma based on the micro-region where it was produced, the season in which it was made, and the style of the cheesemaker. No two wheels taste alike!

Not sure how much cheese to buy? Aim to serve 2 to 3 ounces of cheese per person. Pick a few high-quality hard and soft cheeses from your local deli.

Cheeses used:

  •  Comté Cheese: delicate and creamy
  • Hawes Wensleydale Cranberry: crumbly and sweet
  • Truffle Double Cream Brie: creamy and savory
Close up of a large platter layered in Comte cheese, meat, fruit, crackers, and pickles.

Charcuterie

Always include salty and savory charcuterie meats on your cheese board. Thin slices of prosciutto, salami, or soppressata are easy to grab and pair perfectly with the creamy cheese and crackers. 

Play around with the presentation. I like to create rosettes and pretty folds with the slices of meat so they not only look amazing but are easy to grab. 

Feel free to buy as much meat as you like. You can splurge on a few different kinds or just get one simple choice that’s loved by all.

Meats used:

  • Calabrese Salami
  • Prosciutto
  • Truffle Salami
4 images showing how to layer cheese, meat, and fruit on a charcuterie board

Crackers and nuts

A variety of crackers and/or fresh bread or crostini are necessary on your winter charcuterie. Use them to hold your soft and spreadable cheeses or top them with meat, fruit, or a slice of hard cheese. You can use a variety of storebought crackers or even make your own.

Crackers used:

  • Pistachio Pomegranate Crisps
  • Rustic Bakery Crackers

Fill a few small bowls with a variety of nuts for extra salt and crunch. Nuts not only provide a beautiful presentation, but they help fill empty space. There are plenty of seasonal varieties you can include.

Nuts to use:

  • Hazelnuts drizzled with honey
  • Marcona Almonds
  • Pistachios
  • Almonds
  • Cashews
4 images showing how to assemble a holiday charcuterie board

Extras

This is the fun part! These extras will fill your board with plenty of colors, flavors, and seasonal flare. You can use a variety of fresh or dried fruit, pickled things, and fresh herbs. You can also add decor like sprigs of holly, mistletoe, Christmas ornaments, or even twinkly lights.

Fruit and Berries:

  • Grapes
  • Blueberries
  • Tangerines
  • Apples
  • Pomegranate
  • Pears
  • Persimmons

Pickled things:

  • Cornichons
  • Olives

Herbs:

  • Rosemary
  • Thyme
4 images of a large platter with lots of meats, cheeses, olives, pickles, and crackers.

How to assemble your charcuterie board

Start by grabbing your best wood board, marble slab, or a ceramic serving plate. Gather any small bowls or ramekins, then prepare some cutlery like cheese knives, forks, and spoons.

Follow these steps to arrange your holiday charcuterie board:

  1. Add the cheese: All of your cheeses will take up a corner of the platter or board. This makes it easier for your guests to slice or cut. You can even pre-slice the harder cheeses so they’re easy to grab.
  2. Add the meats: Wrap or fold the slices of meat. As the meat is one of the more popular choices, place them closer to the edges of the board. 
  3. Add pickled things: Pour any olives or cornichons into small bowls. If you’re worried about fingers dipping in and out of the bowls, go ahead and serve them with a fork or spoon.
  4. Add fresh fruit: Slice the apples and peel the tangerines, then place them on the board. It always looks nice to layer the slices or sections on top of each other. Keep the grapes on the vine and layer them on the board. 
  5. Add the crackers: Spread the different types of crackers around the board so each variety is together. This way, no matter where your guests are standing, they can grab a cracker and layer it with a slice of cheese.
  6. Finish and serve: Complete the holiday board with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds, fresh herbs, more grapes, and blueberries. These will help fill in empty space and add color.
Close up of a large platter with lots of meats, cheeses, fruits, pickles, and crackers.

Tips and tricks

These helpful tips will help you create and serve the best holiday charcuterie:

Make it ahead of time

Assemble your board without the crackers and nuts a few hours before guests arrive. Wrap it in plastic and keep it in the fridge. Remove the board 30 minutes before serving so the cheese has time to come down to room temperature. 

Keep it budget-friendly

You don’t need to go all out to make the best holiday cheese and meat board. Stick to your budget and fill it with just a handful of ingredients you can find at your local grocery store. Just buy multiples of the same ingredients to fill it out.

Make it your own

Don’t feel like you need to use every ingredient on this list. Only use the stuff you and your guests love! This will help you create the charcuterie of your dreams without anything going to waste.

If you follow these tips and make your own holiday charcuterie board, let me know! Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to take a picture and tag it with #lenaskitchenblog on Instagram. I love seeing what you come up with!

Print Recipe
5 from 2 votes

How To Build A Holiday Charcuterie Board

Learn How To Build a Holiday Charcuterie Board using this thorough guide. Filled with all of your holiday favorites, this beautiful board of bright flavors and delectable ingredients is sure to be the highlight of your next holiday party.
Prep Time30 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 750kcal
Author: Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • ½ lb Comté cheese sliced
  • ½ lb soft cheese double cream truffle cheese
  • ¼ lb Hawes Wensleydale Cranberry or cheddar cheese
  • 3 cured meats prosciutto, salami, or truffle salami
  • grapes
  • 1 apples sliced
  • ½ cup blueberries
  • ¼ pomegranates
  • crackers variety
  • ½ cup olives
  • ½ cup cornichons
  • ¼ cup marcona almonds
  • ¼ cup hazelnuts to serve with honey
  • ¼ cup honey to drizzle on hazelnuts
  • 8 chocolates your choice
  • 2 sprigs rosemary for topping on cheese or board

Instructions

  • Assemble all the ingredients on a wood board, platter, or tray. Start with your cheeses, create a triangle, then add cured meats around the cheeses, add pickles and olives in small bowls, then grapes cascading off your board, add nuts if serving right away or add with crackers if serving later, add some tangerines around the board, add dried fruit on the board, add berries next close to the cheddar cheese, add the hazelnuts and honey in a bowl. Add some rosemary and pomegranates to the brie cheese.
  • Add crackers and nuts last if making in advance. Or add last to fill the spots on the board. Add any additional grapes if you have spaces to create fullness.
  • Make sure to take your cheeses out of the fridge at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 750kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 55g | Saturated Fat: 27g | Cholesterol: 107mg | Sodium: 851mg | Potassium: 378mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 39g | Vitamin A: 1141IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 598mg | Iron: 2mg

How To Build A Summer Cheese Board

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Build a summer cheese board the fun and easy way! With fresh summer flavors and a variety of cheeses, your board is sure to be a hit as an appetizer at barbecues or backyard get-togethers!

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Large pink platter holding cheese, meat, fruit, crackers, and olives.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Comté Cheese Association. All opinions are 100% mine.

Summer is here and it’s time to treat your guests to good food and good company!

Putting a summer cheese board together is easy, fun, and makes a fresh and flavorful snack for a crowd. If you’ve never put a charcuterie plate together, I have all the tips and tricks you’ll need to make your very own. 

Step by step, we’ll move through the basics of a summer cheese board, how to match flavors, and how to turn it into a work of art. I’ve kept this board simple, but feel free to fill yours with as much cheese, meat, and fruit that you want.

What is Charcuterie?

Charcuterie (pronounced “shahr-ku-tuh-ree”) is all about beautiful presentation and refined flavors. It’s a French word for cured meats, such as bacon, salami, and prosciutto. Nowadays, the word is associated with assembling meat products together with other accompaniments, such as dried fruits, nuts, and cheeses. 

You’ll often see charcuterie boards on menus at restaurants. The flavors typically change with the seasons, but you will always find cheese and cured meats on the boards.

Cheese, bread, stone fruit, and olives on a pink platter.

Step 1: Use a great cheese

If cheese is the star of the board, it’s gotta be good. Pick a few high-quality hard and soft cheeses from your local deli. Aim to serve 2 to 3 ounces per person when deciding how much to buy. 

I highly recommend including a delicate and creamy Comté cheese. Pronounced Comté (“con – TAY”) cheese. Handmade every day by artisans in about 150 small village cheesemaking facilities in the Jura Massif region of France, it’s sure to start a conversation and delight your guests. Comté is also a pure and natural food as it’s made with no additives or artificial colorants, and it’s controlled at each level of production.

Comté is a staple for charcuterie boards because it’s truly unique. Each wheel has a distinct flavor and aroma based on the micro-region where it was produced, the season in which it was made, and the style of the cheesemaker. No two wheels taste alike!

Large platter with cheeses, meats, olives, fruit, and dips.

Step 2: Choose your serving dishes

Add to the presentation by using beautiful serveware. This is what you’ll need:

  • Wooden board or ceramic platter: For aesthetic purposes, I love to plate the snacks on wood or marble board, trays, or large platters. You could also use slate and label all of your ingredients in chalk!
  • Small bowls or ramekins: To hold the small, loose ingredients, such as olives and nuts.
  • Cheese knives: Have multiple sets of knives if your board has more than 1 type of cheese.
3 pieces of bread on a pink plate with cheese, peaches, and meat on top.

Step 3: Include All Of The Basics

All good cheese boards contain a variety of not only cheese, but also meats, fruit, vegetables, bread, crackers, and other accompaniments. I’m breaking it down for you below and including all my summer go-to favorites. Remember: the more color, texture, and flavor on your board, the better!

The Cheese

Include both hard and soft kind of cheeses. Hard cheeses such as Comté and sharp cheddar would be enjoyable on their own. One or two soft cheeses, like brie or wine-soaked cheese, would be delicious on crackers and bread.

The Fruit

Use a variety of fresh and dried fruits for balance. Choose fresh fruits based on the season, such as stone fruit, berries, figs, apples, pears, persimmons, and kiwis. Dried apricots, lemons, oranges, and freeze-dried strawberries would add sweet flavors and beautiful colors.

The Meat

It’s up to you whether you want to include only one kind of meat or more. Use salty and savory cured meats that are easy to grab, like sliced prosciutto, salami, or soppressata. You could even keep it easy and slice pepperoni sticks into bite-size pieces.

The Dips and Spreads

The dips and spreads you choose will depend on the season and what you’ve included on the board. Keep it simple with a bowl of fresh jam, honey, or hummus. Alternatively, if your board is on the savory side, try my smoked salmon dip instead. 

The Accompaniments

Add texture and break up the cheese board by filling your small bowls with all sorts of sweet and salty treats! Fill them with nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, and pistachios), crackers and bread (pretzel sticks, crackers, pita chips, sliced baguette), olives (kalamata, green, or black), and cornichons. If you still have space to fill, add slices of cucumber or an avocado rose for an elegant presentation.

Step 4: Make it look beautiful

Presentation is everything when it comes to charcuterie. Follow these simple steps when layering on all of your ingredients and flavors:

  1. Start by placing your cheese in a triangle shape on the board (A.K.A.: place a cheese in each corner). 
  2. Next, fill your small bowls with the extras and dips, like olives, cornichons, jam, or hummus.
  3. Add to the presentation by wrapping and folding your cured meats. I like to wrap prosciutto into little rosettes and fold the slices of salami next to each other.
  4. To finish, fill the empty spaces on your board with the fresh and dried fruits, crackers, nuts, and bread. You could add edible flowers or fresh herbs as an additional garnish if you’d like.
Plate with a honeycomb, bread, fruit, and meal.

Tips and Tricks

  • Cheese is best served at room temperature. Remove the cheeses from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving. Soft cheese might need closer to an hour at room temp to get that ooey-gooey texture.
  • Whole Foods has a great cheese selection and deli counter. Trader Joe’s sells great cheeses on a budget and already packaged meat selections. Costco is a great place to find cheese and meats in bulk and at a lower price.
  • Serve a knife for each cheese so the flavors don’t mingle. Include small knives or toothpicks and small spoons for things like jam, olives, and cornichons.
Lots of fresh summer charcuterie ingredients on platters. Woman's hands holding a drink and a cracker with cheese, fruit, and meat.

If you follow these tips and make your own summer cheese board, let me know! Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to take a picture and tag it with #lenaskitchenblog on Instagram. I love seeing what you come up with!

Print Recipe
5 from 5 votes

How To Build A Summer Cheese Board

Build a summer cheese board the fun and easy way! With fresh summer flavors and a variety of cheeses, your board is sure to be a hit as an appetizer at barbecues or backyard get-togethers!
Prep Time15 mins
cheese to room temperature30 mins
Total Time15 mins
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: French
Keyword: 30 minute meal, appetizer, charcuterie, cheese, easy appetizer, finger food, meat
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 1797kcal
Author: Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • 1 Comté cheese sliced
  • 1 soft cheese
  • 1 cheddar cheese crumbled
  • 2-3 assorted cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, or soppressata
  • grapes
  • stone fruit sliced
  • strawberries
  • crackers
  • baguette slices toasted
  • olives
  • cornichons
  • jam
  • honey

Instructions

  • Assemble all the ingredients on a wood board, platter, or tray.
  • Add crackers and bread last so they don't get soggy if making in advance.
  • Make sure to take your cheeses out of the fridge at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1797kcal | Carbohydrates: 324g | Protein: 57g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 4281mg | Potassium: 812mg | Fiber: 18g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 181IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 512mg | Iron: 19mg

The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus

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The traditional Greek dip transformed into a canvas of flavor, The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus is a real show-stopper. Topped with your favorite garnishes, it’s sure to captivate your guests as the centerpiece of your next event. 

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The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus with fresh vegetables and feta

Homemade hummus is a staple in our household. Whether enjoyed by dipping carrots or pita, served alongside an elegant charcuterie, or spread on a sandwich, it’s delicious and filling. So creamy and flavorful, it’s no wonder a batch barely lasts longer than a weekend.

I’ve turned this ordinary dip into the extraordinary by adding heaps of toppings and integrating fresh ingredients into the recipe. Smooth and creamy, your family or guests won’t be able to get enough. Loaded with olives, feta, tomatoes, herbs, and spices, one bite feels like an explosion of flavor in your mouth!

Ingredients for The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus

Peel the chickpeas for a velvety Homemade Hummus

If you want a creamy-as-butter Homemade Loaded Hummus, I highly recommend peeling the skins off the chickpeas. While this can be time-consuming, there are a few ways to speed up the process:

  1. Once the canned chickpeas are rinsed and drained, toss them with a teaspoon of baking soda, and heat in a microwave for 1 to 2 minutes (until the beans are hot). Rinse them in cold water while rubbing off the skins, which should be quite easy to remove.
  2. Get the kids involved! Each individual chickpea will need its skin removed, which could easily be turned into a fun game. My kids are always helping me in the kitchen, as I find it provides them with easy entertainment while ingraining important skills. My 11-year-old, Franchesca, often assists during my live videos on Instagram, and she’s even becoming integral to the process.

Make the food processor your new best friend

A food processor is the fastest, most efficient tool you can use to achieve The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus. It’s perfect for quickly turning beans into butter, and to properly combine the rest of the ingredients and flavor-enhancers. If you don’t own a food processor, no problem! A good-quality blender will work just as well. To ensure the ingredients are incorporated, it’s a good idea to stop and stir the batch intermittently.

Toppings for The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus

What’s your favorite flavor?

Classic Homemade Hummus is my favorite. The natural flavors and a slight tang from the lemon and tahini is perfection all on its own in my opinion. Plus, it offers more flexibility when loading up the toppings and garnishes.

When you’re feeling a little more adventurous, try adding roasted garlic, squash, red pepper, or black beans when processing all of the ingredients. The base of this hummus, whether plain or a flavor of your choosing, is perfect to serve with any of the following:

The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus topped with olives, tomatoes, feta, sumac, and parsley

Loading up your Homemade Hummus

Once your Homemade Hummus is ready, load it up with your favorite toppings. I’ve given you a great list to start with:

  • olives
  • crumbled feta
  • tomatoes
  • cucumbers
  • a drizzle of olive oil
  • a sprinkle of ground sumac or smoked paprika
  • chopped fresh parsley

All of these traditional Greek flavors are not only delicious, but presents beautifully. The pops of red and green are sure to wow anyone you’re serving. For a southern flair and an emerald green hue, consider replacing the olives with a few dollops of my fresh chimichurri. 

The beautiful thing about The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus is that it can be served as a show-stopping meal all on its own, or even as an elevated snack. Pack up personal-sized portions to include with your weekly lunches and make your coworkers jealous!

Serving The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus

Whether you plan to enjoy The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus with a group or on your own, make sure to Pin this recipe so you can always have a batch ready in your fridge.

If you do end up making this recipe, please let me know what you think in the comments, or tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog! I love reading about your thoughts, and seeing your recreations (use hashtag #lenaskitchenblog).

Print Recipe
4.75 from 8 votes

The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus

The traditional Greek dip transformed into a canvas of flavor, The Best Homemade Loaded Hummus is a real show-stopper. Topped with your favorite garnishes, it’s sure to captivate your guests as the centerpiece of your next event. 
Prep Time10 mins
Total Time10 mins
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Greek
Keyword: 20 minute recipe, appetizer, beans, charcuterie, dip, dipping, easy, easy appetizer, gluten free, healthy snack, hummus, mediterranean, snack, vegan, vegetarian, veggies
Servings: 2 cups (6-8 servings)
Calories: 428kcal
Author: Lena Gladstone

Equipment

  • Food Processor or High Powered Blender

Ingredients

  • 1 15 oz can of chickpeas rinsed and drained. Reserve a few for topping.
  • ¼ cup lemon juice from 1 ½ to 2 lemons plus more to taste
  • 1 medium to large garlic clove roughly chopped
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt to taste
  • ½ cup tahini
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons ice water plus more as needed
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Garnishes

  • a drizzle of olive oil
  • a sprinkle of ground sumac or paprika
  • fresh parsley chopped
  • olives
  • baby tomatoes
  • crumbled feta
  • reserved chickpeas, optional

Instructions

  • In a fine-mesh strainer, drain the canned chickpeas and rinse with cool water over them for about 30 seconds. Peel the skins from the chickpeas for a creamier hummus.
  • In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine all the ingredients except for the water and oil. Process until smooth.
  • While continuing to process, slowly add 2 tablespoons of ice water and then the oil. Scrape down the side of the food processor or blender as necessary, and blend until the mixture is ultra-smooth, pale, and creamy (if your tahini was extra-thick, to begin with, you might need to add 1 to 2 tablespoons more ice water).
  • Taste, and adjust flavors as necessary.
  • Add the hummus into a serving bowl or platter, and use a spoon to create nice swooshes on top. Drizzle with olive oil and then top with the garnishes of your choice and serve.

Notes

Leftover hummus keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 1 week.
For an alternative method to removing each individual chickpea skin, toss the rinsed the beans in a teaspoon of baking soda. Heat in a microwave for 1 to 2 minutes (until the beans are hot), then rinse with cold water while rubbing off the skins with your hands.

Nutrition

Calories: 428kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 606mg | Potassium: 307mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 3mg

5 Easy Prosecco Holiday Cocktails

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These 5 Easy Prosecco Holiday Cocktails take less than 10 minutes to prep. Perfect for holiday brunch or cocktail party. Top with prosecco and enjoy it.

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PIN IT NOW! CLICK HERE TO PIN THESE 5 EASY PROSECCO HOLIDAY COCKTAILS TO YOUR PINTEREST BOARD.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Corks and Cheers. The opinions and text are all mine. Pick up all your ingredients at your local Kroger store for a one-stop shop.

Party planning can be daunting, especially around the holidays. I want to help you host a party where you get to relax, enjoy a cocktail or two and mingle with your family and friends.

So, I created these 5 easy prosecco holiday cocktails to give you a fun variety for your guests. All easy to make. Try one or all recipes and share it with your guests this holiday season. Also, sharing an easy charcuterie board tutorial to make us a perfect cheese and meat pairing with these cocktails. Set it up and let your guests graze while you get to relax and enjoy the party too.

My favorite part about these cocktails is that all of the work can be done ahead of time. Set it up for your guests to make their own drinks. Then all you have to do is enjoy a fun time playing hostess with the mostess and have fun with your guests.

DAY BEFORE PARTY:

  • Clean all your glassware and place them upside down.
  • Set up a bar cart with glasses, napkins, straws, toothpicks.
  • Chill the prosecco, 7UP, juices the night before.
  • Set up a charcuterie board with bowls and have your utensils ready.
  • Make sure you have enough ice to keep drinks cool and use for serving the drinks too.

DAY OF PARTY:

  • Prep the fixings for all the drinks.
  • Cut and crumble the cheeses.
  • Prep and cut the meats for charcuterie.
  • Clean grapes for charcuterie.
  • Create all the garnishes for each drink and keep cold.

Make all 5 cocktails or pick one or two for a signature cocktail for your party. Up to you.

Let’s get this party started, shall we? Here are your FIVE festive cocktail recipes using the delicious Ogio Prosecco and 7UP. Cheers!

Did you make any of these cocktails or charcuterie recipe? Be sure to post + tag @lenaskitchen on Instagram and use #lenaskitchenblog hashtag! Pin it for later.

champagne flute with sugar rim, limes and blueberries on a toothpick

BLUEBERRY LIME SPRITZ, a fun spin on a spritz. It’s light, fizzy, citrusy and stunning. I love the touch of blueberries for a pop of color.

champagne flute with sugar rim and blueberries on a toothpick
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

BLUEBERRY LIME SPRITZ

BLUEBERRY LIME SPRITZ, a fun spin on a spritz. It's light, fizzy, citrusy and stunning. I love the touch of blueberries for a pop of color.
Course Cocktails
Cuisine American
Keyword citrus cocktail, cocktails, sparkling cocktail
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 cocktails
Calories
Author Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • ½ cup 7UP ginger ale
  • 4 tbsp lime juice
  • ½ cup lemonade
  • Ogio Prosecco to top off each glass
  • Ice

GARNISHES

  • 4 thin lime slices
  • 4 toothpicks
  • 12 blueberries 4 per drink
  • sugar for rims

CHEESE PAIRING OPTIONS

  • extra sharp cheddar cheese
  • aged gouda cheese

Instructions

  • Slice lime into 4 thin slices and cut a small slit for garnish. Add blueberries on a toothpick for garnish.
  • Use remaining lime and go around the rim of the champagne flutes. Dip the edges in sugar to create a sugar rim.
  • Add the 7UP ginger ale, fresh lime juice, lemonade in a cocktail mixer (or mason jar) filled with ice, mix together. With a strainer, divide into each glass. Add garnishes.
  • Top off with prosecco in each glass. Have fun and Enjoy!
peach, ginger and thyme prosecco cocktail

This sweet GINGER PEACH SPARKLE marries ginger and peach together with a refreshing hint of thyme.

peach, ginger and thyme prosecco cocktail
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

GINGER PEACH SPARKLE

This sweet GINGER PEACH SPARKLE marries ginger and peach together with a refreshing hint of thyme.
Course Cocktails
Cuisine American
Keyword peach cocktail, prosecco cocktail, sprakling cocktail
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 cocktails
Calories
Author Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe peach smashed
  • ½ cup 7UP ginger ale
  • Ogio Prosecco to top off each glass
  • Ice

GARNISHES

  • 4 thin sliced peaches
  • 4 sprigs thyme

CHEESE PAIRING OPTIONS

  • camembert cheese
  • aged gruyere

Instructions

  • Cut and then smash peach in a jar. Pour in the 7UP ginger ale, mix. Add a heaping spoonful into the bottom of each glass. Top with ice.
  • Add a slice of peach and a sprig of thyme.
  • Top off with prosecco in each glass. Enjoy!

5 other cocktails using Prosecco:

strawberry cocktail in glass with strawberries, lemons and mint

Refreshing, light, fruity and bubbly is what this STRAWBERRY PROSECCO SMASH cocktail tastes like summer in a cup. But should be enjoyed year-round.

STRAWBERRY cocktail in glass with strawberries around
Print Pin
5 from 2 votes

STRAWBERRY PROSECCO SMASH

Refreshing, light, fruity and bubbly is what this STRAWBERRY PROSECCO SMASH cocktail tastes like summer in a cup. But should be enjoyed year round.
Course Cocktails
Cuisine American
Keyword cocktails, strawberry cocktail, strawberry lemon cocktail
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 cocktails
Calories
Author Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • 8 large fresh strawberries smashed
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ cup 7UP lemon lime soda
  • ½ large lemon juiced
  • Ogio Prosecco to top off each glass
  • Ice

GARNISHES

  • 4 thin lemon slices
  • Fresh mint leaves

CHEESE PAIRING OPTIONS

  • Soft triple cream brie or any kind of brie
  • Aged manchego cheese

Instructions

  • Cut and then smash strawberries in a jar with sugar and lemon. Add the 7UP lemon lime soda, mix well together.
  • Add ice in glasses. Add 2 spoonful of strawberry mix into each glass. Garnish with lemon and mint leaves.
  • Top off with prosecco in each glass. Enjoy!
Two champagne glasses filled with orange drinks and coasters.

Not your traditional mimosa recipe. Adding a twist of lime and pineapple to make this a festive PINEAPPLE ORANGE MIMOSA.

Two champagne glasses filled with orange drinks and coasters.
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5 from 1 vote

PINEAPPLE ORANGE MIMOSA

Not your traditional mimosa recipe. Adding a twist of lime and pineapple to make this a festive PINEAPPLE ORANGE MIMOSA.
Course Brunch, Cocktails
Cuisine American
Keyword citrus cocktail, cocktails, mimosa, pineapple
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 cocktails
Calories
Author Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ½ cup 7UP light lemon lime soda
  • 4 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • Ogio Prosecco to top off each glass
  • Ice

GARNISH

  • 4 pieces of pineapple cut into triangles
  • 4 thin lime slices
  • 4 toothpicks
  • Coupe glasses

CHEESE PAIRING OPTIONS

  • Extra sharp cheddar cheese
  • Drunken Goat cheese

Instructions

  • Mix juices and 7UP light lemon lime soda together.
  • Add to each glass. Add garnishes.
  • Top off with prosecco in each glass. Enjoy!
two champagne flutes with raspberry lime mimosas.

This RASPBERRY LIME MIMOSA has a great hint of lime and sweetness from the raspberries. Perfect morning or evening pick me up.

two champagne flutes with raspberry lime mimosas.
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5 from 1 vote

RASPBERRY LIME MIMOSA

This RASPBERRY LIME MIMOSA has a great hint of lime and sweetness from the raspberries. Perfect morning or evening pick me up.
Course Brunch, Cocktails
Cuisine American
Keyword citrus cocktail, cocktails, holiday cocktails, lime, mimosa, raspberries
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 4 cocktails
Calories
Author Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raspberry lemonade
  • ½ cup 7UP diet lemon lime soda
  • 4 tbsp lime juice
  • Ogio Prosecco to top off each glass
  • Ice

GARNISH

  • 4 fresh raspberries
  • 4 thin lime slices
  • stemless champagne flutes or regular

CHEESE PAIRING OPTIONS

  • Santori Merlot Bellavitano wine soaked cheese
  • Gorganzola Dolce cheese

Instructions

  • Add raspberry lemonade to bottom of each glass, then add the 7UP light lemon lime soda and lime juice.
  • Add Ice, top with garnishes.
  • Top off with prosecco in each glass. Enjoy!
charcuterie board filled with meats, cheeses, fruits and crackers.

Here are some simple steps you can take to create the perfect charcuterie board. This HOLIDAY CHARCUTERIE BOARD will be the center of attention at any party. Easy to prep ahead and serve to your guests.

charcuterie board filled with meats, cheeses, fruits and crackers.
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5 from 1 vote

HOLIDAY CHARCUTERIE BOARD

Here are some simple steps you can take to create the perfect charcuterie board. This HOLIDAY CHARCUTERIE BOARD will be the center of attention at any party. Easy to prep ahead and serve to your guests.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine French
Keyword appetizer, charcuterie, cheese, easy appetizer, salami
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories
Author Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • 1 soft cheese triple cream brie or any favorite soft cheese
  • 1 hard cheese that crumbles cheddar, BellaVitano (wine soaked cheese)
  • 1 manchego cheese sliced thinly
  • 1 spreadable goat cheese boursin cheese or any favorite
  • 2 different size salami
  • 1 package thinly sliced prosciutto
  • Grapes
  • Figs if in season
  • Apples or pears thinly sliced
  • Persimmon thinly sliced
  • Dried apricots
  • Fig or another favorite jam
  • Honey
  • Nuts
  • Olives
  • Cornichons
  • 2-3 types of crackers

WHAT YOU NEED TO SERVE ON

  • 1 large board
  • small cheese knives
  • small spoons
  • small forks
  • napkins
  • small plates for guest to use

Instructions

  • Cut off ends of manchego cheese, then thinly slice into triangles.
  • Lay out the cheeses, place bowls near them. In bowls, add in cornichons, olives, honey and jam. I like to have the jam next to manchego cheese, it goes really well together.
  • Add in the prosciutto and salami around the cheeses. Add sliced apples or pears, persimmons and nuts around. Add in the grapes and fill in the middle of the board gaps with nuts, dried fruit and crackers at the edges of the board.
  • Serve and enjoy with a few cocktails and friends.

I hope you guys have the happiest of holidays and can’t wait to see you make these 5 easy prosecco holiday cocktails and a beautiful charcuterie board to make your hosting hassle-free and enjoyable. Cheers friends!

Happy Holidays, Lena.

Epic Charcuterie Board For Two

by

The perfect step by step Epic Charcuterie Board For Two makes for a great no-cook idea to share with someone special on love day. A little sweet, savory and served with love.

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The perfect step by step EPIC CHARCUTERIE BOARD FOR TWO makes for a great no cook idea to share with someone special on love day. A little sweet, savory and served with love. lenaskitchenblog.com #charcuterie #valentinesday #cheeseboard

Happiest of Valentine’s Day to you lovely. If you celebrate today fully or stay in and celebrate your love, friendships or family. I’ve got an easy appetizer/dinner idea for you.

While you are out and about today grabbing last-minute items to celebrate. Use my easy checklist of items you can pick up to make this beautiful board to share with someone special in your life.

When it comes to charcuterie boards, I consider myself a pretty good expert by now. Some call me the Charcuterie Queen. I have made a few hundred boards in the last couple of years so I’ll take that title. It’s probably one of my favorite things to create. For me, the boards are like pieces of art that I get to curate, different each time. I can’t wait to share some of my tips on creating this board.

The perfect step by step EPIC CHARCUTERIE BOARD FOR TWO makes for a great no cook idea to share with someone special on love day. A little sweet, savory and served with love. lenaskitchenblog.com #charcuterie #valentinesday #cheeseboard

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO SERVE ON:

  • WOOD BOARD or a larger ceramic platter. This gorgeous board is designed and created by my friends at Roe and Bella. They create beautiful one of kind wood boards and are available for sale on their site. Make sure to check them out.
  • SMALL BOWLS. You can use anything small like this ramekin or this one. I have a large collection of props. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy expensive. Use what you have at home too.
  • CHEESE KNIVES. Here are a few options for you to check out. I like to have a set. This set had great details and texture. Another option for a three-piece set. The wooden set option is always nice too. Or use what you have at home.

Learn how to put together this Epic Charcuterie Board For Two with a delicious Easy Smoked Salmon Dip, recipe below.

The perfect step by step EPIC CHARCUTERIE BOARD FOR TWO makes for a great no cook idea to share with someone special on love day. A little sweet, savory and served with love. lenaskitchenblog.com #charcuterie #valentinesday #cheeseboard

Showing love through food for people is one of my favorite things to do. It’s part of my love language of giving a gift or acts of service. Have you ever taken the Love Language test to see what yours are? I just took mine again and it’s so interesting to see how much we change over the years. Check out my answers here on a post I did last week.

The perfect step by step EPIC CHARCUTERIE BOARD FOR TWO makes for a great no cook idea to share with someone special on love day. A little sweet, savory and served with love. lenaskitchenblog.com #charcuterie #valentinesday #cheeseboard

When I create small boards like this, I mainly shop at Trader Joes for all the goodies. They are a great source for trying new cheeses, crackers, pickled things, sweet things and always have a great selection of dips if you are low on time. Check out my checklist for this board. It’s not necessary to get all of the items, but I list them out for your reference as a guide.

WHAT YOU NEED FOR YOUR EPIC CHARCUTERIE BOARD FOR TWO:

  • CHEESES. 2-3 kinds of cheese, one soft, one hard and one creamy. I go for these three as favorites. Manchego, Creamy Toscano Cheese Soaked in Syrah, Boursin Garlic and Herb Goat cheese, you can also do a creamy Brie that you prefer for creamy cheese.
  • MEAT. Add 2 different kinds. I like prosciutto and sliced salami. Trader Joe’s carries a great variety. Grab one package of this Prosciutto and your choice of salami and slice it yourself.
  • SWEET TREATS. Select two things they have around Valentine’s Day, at Trader Joes. These Heart shaped chocolate dipped cookies and xoxo gummies.
  • CHOCOLATE. Grab your favorite chocolate bar. I used Tony’s Chocolonely Valentine chocolate bar.
  • NUTS. Marcona almonds from Trader Joes are one of my faves. Add a handful of your favorite nuts.
  • CRACKERS. Select your favorite crackers or cut up a baguette instead.
  • BERRIES & CITRUS. Add a handful of your favorite berries in a bowl or put them directly on the board. Grab some little tangerines and cut them in half like I did.
  • CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES. They are available at all the stores around Valentine’s Day. Or make your own by melting some chocolate and dipping the strawberries in. Let them cool in the fridge on a wire rack.
  • OLIVES. Choose the ones you love most. You only need a handful.
  • DIP. I created a super yummy smoked salmon dip, see recipe below. It took no more than 5 minutes to whip up. If you are short on time, pick up a premade dip like hummus at any grocery store.
  • VEGGIES. I went with using Radicchio and Endive as my vehicles for the dip I created for a healthier option. Add sliced cucumbers, mini bell peppers or mini tomatoes instead if you aren’t feeling my option.
  • WINE. Optional. Or make your favorite cocktails.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
If you give my EPIC CHARCUTERIE BOARD FOR TWO a try? Let me know what you think, rate and review this recipe in the comments below, share it on Pinterest, Instagram or Facebook. Leave a comment and don’t forget to take a picture, tag it with #lenaskitchenblog on Instagram or tag me on my Facebook page! I love seeing what you come up with! Happy cooking.

Grab these easy and delicious ideas as the main course if you decide to cook for your sweetheart instead:

This easy 5 ingredient SMOKED SALMON DIP takes 5 minutes to prepare. Makes a great appetizer for any occasion. Great as a dip or spread. lenaskitchenblog.com #smokedsalmondip #dip #appetizer #keto #lowcarb

See the recipe below for a super Easy Smoked Salmon Dip below. All you need are 5 ingredients and 5 minutes to make it.

The perfect step by step EPIC CHARCUTERIE BOARD FOR TWO makes for a great no cook idea to share with someone special on love day. A little sweet, savory and served with love. lenaskitchenblog.com #charcuterie #valentinesday #cheeseboard
Print Recipe
5 from 4 votes

EASY SMOKED SALMON DIP

This easy 5 ingredient SMOKED SALMON DIP takes 5 minutes to prepare. Makes a great appetizer for any occasion. Great as a dip or spread.
Prep Time5 mins
Total Time5 mins
Course: Appetizer, Condiment
Cuisine: American
Keyword: appetizer, cream cheese, dip, keto, low carb, salmon, spread
Servings: 6 SERVINGS
Calories:
Author: Lena Gladstone

Ingredients

  • 12 oz whipped cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup yogurt
  • 5 oz smoked salmon skin removed
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill plus a few sprigs for garnish
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • First, check salmon for any bones first. Remove if any.
  • After, add all ingredients into food processor and blend well until smooth. Add to a bowl, top with a few sprigs of fresh dill. Serve with veggies or crackers.

Nutrition

Serving: 0g | Carbohydrates: 0g | Protein: 0g | Fat: 0g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 0mg | Potassium: 0mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 0g | Vitamin A: 0IU | Vitamin C: 0mg | Calcium: 0mg | Iron: 0mg

xoxo,
LENA

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