A Charcuterie Table is a spin off of the boards, which have become popular. The table allows large crowds to “graze” on all of the options. [Photos by Kim Gehling]

Every year, it seems that charcuterie boards become more popular. Traditionally, a board will include a selection of cured meats and cheeses with crackers and spreads. This concept has branched out on social media to include all types of ingredients and themes.

From my perspective, there are two great things about any of these types of boards. They are easy to put together (buy ingredients and arrange), and they are fun for all to enjoy.

Last year I found a series of videos on TikTok that took charcuterie boards to the next level. The videos followed a caterer that specializes in creating beautiful charcuterie displays that cover whole tables for guests to enjoy. The charcuterie tables she created were beautiful through the use of well selected ingredients that were arranged artistically. The tables created a real wow-factor for anyone that attended the events.

Once I’d seen a charcuterie table, I knew that I needed to try making one. The first time I did so was for my book club that I hosted last Fall. I looked up which ingredients went well together for a traditional charcuterie board. I made sure to buy multiples of each ingredient so that I had plenty of food to fill the table.

When that charcuterie table went over well, my next was set up for guests at an open house we held at work last Spring. It fed around 35 guests, and even pleased kids in attendance that were able to pick out ingredients that they liked as well.

My latest charcuterie table was set up last month when I again hosted our book club. I spread it across the island in my kitchen and included a dessert area on one end. It was loved by all, and it is definitely in my plans for future events.

If you have an upcoming gathering, I encourage you to consider selecting and arranging your favorite ingredients in this way. From my experience, whether it be a charcuterie board or a table, it creates a special touch, and is always enjoyed.

From my kitchen to yours — enjoy!

Charcuterie Table Ingredient ideas

Meats: Salami (Genoa, Italian or Calabrese), Prosciutto (Dry-Cured Ham), Speck (Smoked Ham), Pepperoni, Smoked Salmon

Cheeses: Goat Cheese, Havarti, Cheddar, Gouda, Brie, Gruyere, Asiago, Mozzarella, Parmesan

Crackers: Thin Wheat, Woven Wheat, Pita, Crostini Toasts, Breadsticks, Flatbread

Fruit: Blackberries, Blueberries, Dried Apricots, Grapes, Mandarin Oranges

Spreads: Fruit Spread, Honey, Mustard, Tapenade

Extras: Trail Mix, Almonds, Cashews, Olives