Charcuterie boards have become a popular trend for entertaining, but the price tag on some of these fancy platters can be overwhelming. You don’t need to spend much money to prepare a delectable spread for your guests. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a cheap charcuterie board that’s tasty and budget-friendly. Rest assured, we have you covered – from selecting the right ingredients to arranging them aesthetically pleasing!
How to Make a Cheap Charcuterie Board
Choose Your Cheeses Wisely:
When it comes to creating a cheap charcuterie board, cheese can be the most expensive ingredient. However, you can still have a great selection of cheeses without breaking the bank by choosing wisely. Here are some tips:
- Opt for cheeses on sale or clearance at your local grocery store.
- Seek out smaller portions of cheese or purchase it in bulk and slice it to your desired size.
- Opt for a combination of hard and soft cheeses to introduce diversity.
- Be bold and try new cheeses – you may find a delicious one that’s not as well-known and more affordable.
Add Variety with Meats and Crackers:
Meats are another critical component of a charcuterie board, but they don’t have to be expensive. Here are some ideas for budget-friendly meats:
- Choose cheaper cuts of meat, like salami or pepperoni.
- Buy pre-packaged meat trays for added variety.
- Use leftovers from a previous meal, like roasted chicken or ham.
- Consider vegetarian options like hummus or roasted chickpeas.
To accompany your meats, crackers are a great choice. Here are some affordable options:
- Look for discounted or off-brand crackers at your grocery store.
- Consider making your crackers from scratch.
- Use bread or baguette slices instead of crackers for a different texture.
Get Creative with Fruits and Veggies:
Fruits and veggies are a healthy addition to your charcuterie board and can be affordable. Here are some ideas:
- Use seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are often less expensive.
- Choose canned or frozen fruits for a lower-cost option.
- Make your fruit or veggie dips to add flavor.
- Use small cookie cutters to create fun shapes with fruits and veggies.
Remember the Condiments:
Condiments can add much flavor to your charcuterie board without much cost. Here are some ideas:
- Make your dips, like hummus or guacamole.
- Use mustard or spreads that you already have in your fridge.
- Consider adding olives, pickles, or other salty snacks for added flavor.
Assembling Your Board:
Once you’ve gathered all of your ingredients, it’s time to assemble your cheap charcuterie board. Here are some tips for making it look beautiful:
- Start with a large platter or cutting board.
- Arrange your cheeses in a triangle shape for visual appeal.
- Add your meats and crackers in between the cheeses.
- Fill in the empty spaces with fruits, veggies, and condiments.
- Consider adding fresh herbs or flowers for added color and fragrance.
FAQs About Cheap Charcuterie Boards:
Here are some FAQs about cheap charcuterie boards:
Q: Can I make a charcuterie board without cheese?
A: You can make a delicious charcuterie board without the cheese. Add extra meats, veggies, and condiments to compensate for the lack of cheese.
Q: Can I make a vegetarian charcuterie board?
A: Absolutely! There are plenty of vegetarian options for a charcuterie board, like roasted chickpeas, hummus, veggie dips, and various fruits and vegetables.
Q: How far in advance can I assemble my charcuterie board?
A: It’s best to assemble your charcuterie board close to serving time. However, you can prep some ingredients in advance, like slicing cheese and meat, washing and cutting fruits and veggies, and making dips.
Q: How much food do I need for a charcuterie board?
A: The food you need depends on how many people you’re serving and whether the charcuterie board is the main meal or just an appetizer. As a general rule, plan on 2-3 ounces of cheese per person, 2-3 ounces of meat per person, and various fruits, veggies, and condiments to fill in the board.
Don’t Stress It!
Creating a cheap charcuterie board doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With creativity and planning, you can impress your guests without breaking the bank. Choose ingredients wisely, add variety, and carefully assemble your board. Your guests will love the delicious and budget-friendly spread you’ve created!
Food stylist & founder of One Board Gal. Known for creative food tips and simple cheese board inspiration. I am dedicated to helping you bring a lot to the table by sharing tricks, tips, and education for your next gathering.