Pin A festive and visually stunning appetizer board arranged in a wreath shape, featuring a delightful assortment of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and accompaniments—perfect for effortless holiday entertaining.
This recipe has become my go-to for holiday parties because it impresses guests while requiring minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 120 g brie cheese, cut into wedges, 120 g cheddar cheese, cubed, 100 g goat cheese, sliced or rolled into balls
- Cured Meats: 100 g prosciutto, folded, 100 g salami, sliced, 100 g coppa or soppressata, folded
- Fruits & Vegetables: 1 cup seedless red grapes, 1 cup green grapes, 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (for garnish), 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup sliced cucumber rounds
- Accompaniments: 1/2 cup marinated olives, 1/3 cup cornichons or gherkins, 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans), 1 cup assorted crackers, fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish and wreath effect), fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place a large round board or platter on your work surface.
- Step 2:
- Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs in a circle along the outer edge of the board to create the base of your wreath.
- Step 3:
- Layer the cheeses in clusters around the wreath, spacing them evenly.
- Step 4:
- Fold and arrange cured meats in small bundles or rosettes and nestle them between the cheese clusters.
- Step 5:
- Scatter grapes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber rounds, and pomegranate seeds around the wreath, filling in gaps and adding color.
- Step 6:
- Place small piles of olives, cornichons, and nuts throughout the wreath.
- Step 7:
- Tuck fresh cranberries and thyme sprigs in for festive color and aroma.
- Step 8:
- Arrange crackers in small stacks or fan shapes around the board, ensuring easy access.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Pin This board always brings everyone together to chat and enjoy the holiday spirit around the table.
Notes
Try adding dried figs apricots or dark chocolate for variety Pair with sparkling wine Prosecco or a light red.
Required Tools
Large round serving board or platter Small bowls (optional for olives or nuts) Small cheese knives Tongs or serving forks
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese) Tree nuts (nuts) Gluten (crackers) Sulfites (cured meats olives) If serving to guests with allergies check all labels and substitute as needed.
Pin Make it your own by swapping ingredients to match your guests preferences and enjoy a beautiful effortless celebration starter.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I assemble the charcuterie wreath?
Start by arranging fresh rosemary sprigs in a circle on your serving board to create a wreath base, then layer cheeses, fold cured meats, and distribute fruits, nuts, olives, and crackers evenly.
- → Can I make a vegetarian version of this board?
Yes, simply omit cured meats and add extra cheese, grilled vegetables, or falafel bites to maintain variety and flavor without animal products.
- → What are some ideal accompaniments to serve with this board?
Assorted crackers, marinated olives, cornichons, mixed nuts, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary complement the flavors and enhance the presentation.
- → How long does the assembled board stay fresh?
It's best served immediately, but you can cover and refrigerate it for a few hours before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
- → What wines pair well with this charcuterie wreath?
Light sparkling wines like Prosecco, dry white wines, or a light red wine enhance the assortment of cheeses and cured meats on the board.
- → Are there any allergen concerns to consider?
The board contains milk, tree nuts, gluten, and sulfites, so be sure to check ingredient labels and provide substitutes if needed for guests with allergies.
