Charcuterie boards have always been classy, but these days they're way more approachable — because they're no longer just for cheese! Rach actually uses her wood cutting boards as general serving platters at home, because she has so many. "I serve everything on some shape or size of board," she says. And today, she's got a few of her buddies sharing their favorite fancy snack board ideas (cheese optional!).
That's right — we've got charcuterie board ideas that go way beyond cheese, covering all the craving bases with sweet, salty and savory snacks. Read on for seven ways you too can put the "cute" in charcuterie right at home.
(And if you want to make your own wood cutting board at home, here's how.)
1. Hummus Boards
Chef Ryan Scott demos three delicious (and healthy) hummus boards with three different types of homemade hummus, plus sides to go with each! Get his recipes for Black Bean Hummus, Everything Bagel Hummus and Roasted Butternut Squash & Garlic Hummus, plus Salt & Vinegar Waffle Fries and Onion Pita Chips for dipping.
2. French Fry Board
Caterer-to-the-stars Mary Giuliani's fancied-up French fry board is pretty much our dream.
"When you're entertaining at home, serve things people love. Who doesn't love French fries?" she says. Mary points out that snack boards serve as both décor and food, and you can customize your bites — which is why she calls them snack-tivities!
3. Waffle Board
There are no plates necessary with Mary's breakfast board, because the waffle is the plate. "Less to clean up, more to eat," she says.
4. Pickle Board
No one will be bored with this board!
Mary's Pro Tip: Since pickles can be a little bit watery, choose a board that has a bit of a trough or an indent to collect any excess liquid and prevent spills.
5. "Fun-due" Fondue Board
Rach makes cheese fondue, which she likes to serve surrounded by broccolini, radishes, tomatoes, asparagus, cauliflower, toasted bread, sirloin tips, sausages, pearl onions, baby potatoes and brandied mushrooms. She sets everything out on wood boards so there are plenty of dippers to choose from. "And then you just get your dip on!" she says.
6. Ice Cream Sundae Board
Jeni Britton Bauer, founder of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, has the *scoop* on this trendy ice cream sundae bar that doesn't require a single bowl.
7. Sweets Board
Former "Rachael" staffer and current "Entertainment Tonight" host and producer Hallie Stephens demonstrates how to make a dessert board that's, well, pretty darn sweet.
Hallie's Pro Tip: Use a tray or a platter that has a lip, so you can really stack up those goodies. This also makes it easier to wrap up and travel with if you need to. Get all of Hallie's tips in the video below:
