The Charcuterie Board

THE TERM "CHARCUTERIE" ORIGINATES FROM THE FRENCH WORDS "CHAIR" (FLESH) AND "CUIT" (COOKED). HISTORICALLY, IT REFERRED TO THE CULINARY ART OF PREPARING AND ASSEMBLING CURED MEATS. AS CHARCUTERIE BOARDS EVOLVED, THEY BEGAN TO INCLUDE CHEESES, FRUITS, NUTS, AND OTHER NON-MEAT ITEMS, BROADENING THEIR APPEAL. SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO ENJOY A CHARCUTERIE BOARD, AS THE SEASON'S BOUNTY OF FRESH PRODUCE OFFERS ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES. HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO CREATE A REFRESHING AND DELIGHTFUL SUMMER CHARCUTERIE BOARD FOR THOSE WHO DON'T EAT ANIMAL PRODUCTS:

• VEGAN CHEESES: Made from nuts, soy, and other plant-based ingredients, these cheeses mimic the textures and flavors of their dairy counterparts.

• CURED VEGETABLES: Techniques like marinating and smoking infuse vegetables with deep, savory flavors reminiscent of cured meats.

• PLANT-BASED PROTEINS: Items like tempeh, tofu, and seitan are seasoned and prepared in a way that makes them the star of the platter.

• FRESH AND DRIED FRUITS: Providing natural sweetness and a burst of color, fruits balance the savory elements beautifully.

• NUTS AND SEEDS: Adding crunch and richness, these are essential for texture diversity

• GRILLED VEGETABLES: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, lightly charred, add a smoky element.

• HERB-INFUSED OLIVE OIL: Drizzle over bread or use as a dip, infused with summer herbs like basil and rosemary.

• AVOCADO SLICES: Creamy and rich, avocados are a crowd-pleaser.

• HUMMUS AND DIPS: Brightly colored beet hummus or refreshing cucumber tzatziki add visual and taste variety.

• EDIBLE FLOWERS: Nasturtiums or pansies can be used to garnish, adding a whimsical and vibrant touch.

Specialties

14. Apricot Fruit Spread- St. Dalflour 15. Salted Almond Dark Chocolate- Lily’s 16. Roasted Red Pepper StripsJeff’s Garden

17. Sweet Heat BalsamicCalifornia Balsamic

18. Castelvetrano Olives - Jeff's Garden

Meats

19. Smoked Duck BreastRoundman's

20. Toscano Salame- Framani HERBS

21. Organic Basil

22. Organic Chives

23. Organic Rosemary