November Grazing Board
We were all hunter-gatherers once, maybe that is the appeal of food presented this way. A grazing board can provide a broad variety of foods, and the ability to try something new without a huge commitment. Perhaps someone visiting has never tried the oddly shaped Moon Drop grape, or the Salame Secchi Fiore with it’s brie-like outer mold bloom. Once past the novelty, your guests can create combinations of flavors that may have never been discovered in more formal dining scenarios.
Everyone loves a grazing board, so why not make a one that is inspired by fall? For this board, I decided to carry the theme based on color, not necessarily traditional fall flavors. Searching for unique ingredients is part of the fun, and I am fortunate enough to have a Trader Joes close to home that always has new, seasonal products to try.
A bountiful platter of cured meats, cheeses, breads, vegetables, fruit and nuts tend to cover all the bases. I traditionally lean Italian with my cured meat selections, but in the future, I plan to branch out and be a bit more adventurous.
When planning the color palette, such as this board with warmer hues, consider holiday or seasonal themed pops of color with your fruit and vegetable choices, or small bowls of dips and spreads that follow your theme.
Feeling a little overwhelmed with your first attempt? I find that I do better when I do an inventory of my ingredients, and then I sketch out how I think it would look the most appetizing color-wise, or what flavors complement each other. It may not turn out how I initially planned, but the building process can be just as fun as the outcome (sometimes, more fun).
Purchasing this huge, rustic log, lazy susan charcuterie board was one of my better investments. Don’t see what you like? Give it a spin! Eating becomes like a fun game of Wheel of Fortune except the “prize” is tasty snacks and good company (instead of a trip for two on a cruise).
SHOPPING LIST
Meats
Italian Dry Salame
Calabrese Salame
Salame Secchi Fiore
Del Luca Prosciutto
Capocollo
Cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Stravecchio
Cheddar With Caramelized Onion
Ciliegine Mozzarella
Double Cream Brie
Smoked Gouda
Fruit
Gala Apple
Honeycrisp Apple
Moon Drop Grapes
Black Mission Figs
Blackberries
Dried Apricots
Kiwi Berries
Kiwi
Vegetables
Pitted Green Olives
Large Black Olives
Roasted Heirloom Tomatoes
Rainbow Carrots
Snap Peas
Other
Roasted Nut Mix
Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Toasted Ciabatta Bread
