Charcuterie or Cheese plate?
What do you call a tray with cheese and crackers, assorted meat and other snacks?
I won't name any names, but we were floating on the lake this Summer in New Hampshire, and sipping, when someone suggested a Charcuterie tray. A what?? someone asked? A charcuterie tray, you know cheese, crackers, meat, etc... "Well, why don't you just say a "plate of cheese"! :) "We are on the lake and everything should be casual. Why are you being so fancy?"
Admittedly this is probably one of those "you had to be there" moments. But it was a really funny exchange at the time.
Whether you call it a cheese plate, charcuterie, happy hour snacks, or hors d'oeuvres (this is another question - appetizers or hors d'oeuvres?) A platter/plate/tray with cheese and crackers is best when dressed up with some fun "extras".
Start with the basics- Cheese (a hard, a soft/medium and maybe one that is seasoned), meat (salami, pepperoni...) and crackers.
Here are a few recommended "extras" :
* pickles (think gourmet) and. other pickled treats like beets, onions, beans...
* fruit- apples, grapes, maybe blueberries
* nuts
* veggie spears- cucumbers, carrots, peppers, radishes perhaps
* the unexpected sweet topping is a great extra- Honey or your favorite preserves
You can get creative with your presentation or simply use a paper plate! From cheese board to a fancy Charcuterie tray, if YOU like it? Its perfect!
One of the best ways to enjoy your Charcuterie is with wine. Red, white, sparkling it will all be a wonderful pairing.
Here's to making the best of being with friends and family and enjoying life's treats together!
Cheers