Save It A stunning holiday-inspired charcuterie board arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree, featuring cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and accompaniments from around the world. Perfect as a showstopping appetizer for gatherings. This festive display is sure to impress your guests with its colors, flavors, and creative presentation.
I made this charcuterie tree for a family gathering last December and it instantly became the highlight of the evening. Everyone loved picking their favorites from each row, and it sparked so many conversations about food traditions from around the world.
Ingredients
- Manchego (Spain): 100 g, cubed
- Aged Cheddar (UK): 100 g, cubed
- Brie (France): 100 g, sliced
- Provolone (Italy): 100 g, sliced or cubed
- Prosciutto (Italy): 80 g, thinly sliced
- Soppressata (Italy): 80 g, sliced
- Chorizo (Spain): 80 g, sliced
- Mortadella (Italy): 80 g, thinly sliced
- Red grapes: 1 small bunch
- Green grapes: 1 small bunch
- Pomegranate: 1, seeds removed
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup
- Cucumber: 1 small, sliced
- Baby arugula: 1 small handful (for garnish)
- Marcona almonds (Spain): 50 g
- Pistachios (Middle East): 50 g
- Green olives (Greece or Italy): 12, pitted
- Black olives (Greece or Italy): 12, pitted
- Fig jam (France): 2 tbsp
- Whole grain mustard (Germany): 2 tbsp
- Toasted baguette: 12 slices
- Assorted crackers: 12 pieces
Instructions
- Shape The Tree:
- On a large rectangular or oval board, lightly outline a Christmas tree shape with arugula leaves as the branches.
- Create The Trunk:
- Starting at the base, layer slices of bread and crackers as the tree trunk.
- Arrange Meats And Cheeses:
- Arrange meats and cheeses in alternating horizontal rows, slightly overlapping, to create the boughs of the tree.
- Add Fruits And Vegetables:
- Fill spaces between rows with grapes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and pomegranate seeds for color and texture.
- Add Ornaments:
- Add olives and nuts in clusters to resemble ornaments.
- Add Dips:
- Place small bowls of fig jam and mustard near the board or nestle them into the tree for dipping.
- Top The Tree:
- Top the tree with a star-shaped piece of cheese or a cluster of pomegranate seeds.
- Serve:
- Finish with more arugula for a fresh green look. Serve immediately.
Save It Making this charcuterie tree together with my kids turned into an annual tradition. They love picking their favorite ingredients and helping shape the 'ornaments'—a perfect hands-on family project for the holidays.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your festive charcuterie tree with a crisp white wine, sparkling wine, or a light red like Pinot Noir for the perfect holiday spread. Add fresh herbs or edible flowers for extra color and aroma.
Storage Tips
Assemble just before serving for maximum freshness. If you need to prepare ahead, store meats and cheeses covered in the refrigerator and arrange on the board shortly before guests arrive.
Customization Ideas
Swap ingredients for local favorites or to fit dietary needs. Use cookie cutters on cheese or bread for fun holiday shapes, or add dips like hummus or roasted peppers to include even more international flavor.
Save It This charcuterie tree will be the talk of your party and is so much fun to assemble. Enjoy every bite and every festive moment!
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I start arranging the charcuterie tree?
Begin by outlining a Christmas tree shape on your serving board using arugula or leafy greens to mimic branches. This sets the foundation for layering other elements.
- → What cheeses pair well on this board?
Use a mix of textures and flavors like Manchego, aged cheddar, Brie, and Provolone to provide a balanced taste experience.
- → Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, omit the cured meats and add extra cheeses, marinated vegetables, or smoked nuts for a satisfying meat-free alternative.
- → How can I keep the board fresh for serving?
Assemble shortly before serving and cover loosely with plastic wrap if preparing in advance to maintain freshness without sogginess.
- → What accompaniments complement the charcuterie tree?
Small bowls of fig jam and whole grain mustard add sweet and tangy notes, while toasted baguette slices and crackers provide crunch.