It is no secret that charcuterie has become a staple item at parties. From simple boards to tables sweeping with meats and cheeses, their presence have become a fixture in the events world. While this nosh always make a statement, I can't count how many times I've heard the phrase "oh, its too pretty to eat" slip from a party goers lips.
Yes, most of these displays are a stunning sight to see, but I think this comment goes deeper. If you take the time to watch peoples patterns at parties when it comes to food they often times don't want to be seen. Guests gravitate towards things like nuts or one bite appetizers. Dare you ever place full slices of cake out to be carried around. Or give them a table full of food to take in and search for the easiest accessible pieces.
I don't say this to shame party goers, it makes perfect sense. Parties are a time to be your best self, and meet new faces. You don't want to be caught mid bite needing to say hello. Or have to wipe food on your pants when faced with an outreach hand for an introduction.
No, I say this because there are very small changes you can make to your board that will allow your guests to eat with ease:
- Cut Everything - While a large block of cheese can look so elegant, no one wants to be fumbling with a knife trying not to knock the rest of the board's contents around.
- Leave Bread Separate - This is a tip I was given recently that I really love. Avoiding carbs is a commonality, so removing the bread and crackers from the charcuterie board and adding them on a separate tray allows guests eyes to focus on other things.
- Fold Meats - I love a flower made of meat, and do often use them in my spreads. It is also something people always comment they don't want to mess up. So adding in strips of folded meats is a good way to still display a pretty flower or two and keep people eating.
- Avoid Dips - This might not be for everyone, but I believe that you should get as close to never needing a plate as possible with party food. Dips force people to be attached to their plate and in turn can deter guests from eating.
- Be Allergy Cautious - Something I try to do on a large charcuterie spread is plan out allergies. Always try to have one cheese completely void of touching a meat for vegetarians. I look for a goat cheese to break up for those who don't do traditional dairy. Adding veggies is a helpful tool, and keeping nuts in a single corner incase someone is allergic.
- Eat First - Often times food goes un eaten because no one wants to be the first to dig in. I always encourage the host to grab a bite or two quickly so others feel welcome.
I hope these little tips help with your next spread! May your holidays be full of warm hearts and empty plates.