When it comes to Charcuterie Boards my first rule is there are no rules. Everything else is secondary. The officials will say that you start with your cheese, add the meat, then fill in with the fruits, vegetables, crackers and sweets. But I say, let your inner creativity be your guide and just enjoy yourself!
Let's start with a few healthy tips concerning dairy. I never put out a slab of cheese, but serve individual cubed hard cheese. That way it helps with portion control, and feels like you are getting more bang for your buck. Also, when it comes to dips, I blend a zero fat Greek Yogurt with Ranch Seasoning, (sub with your favorite spices). High pitched Seasonings can add tremendous flavor without additional fat or calories.
When it comes to meats, I prefer nuts in the shell for a protein source, my favorite is Pistachios. The longer it takes to eat something, the more time it allows for your brain to catch up to your belly. Not to mention, nuts are high in fat, fiber and tremendously filling. But be careful, those pesky little devils can add up fast in calories.
Fill in the platter with fruits, crackers and vegetables. The more fruits and vegetables the better. If you can find a creative twist to show off your produce, then add that special touch of flair. Lastly, a few sweet treats will finish it off perfectly. I try to stick to individually wrapped chocolates to help with portion control, or serve a stevia sweetened goodie for the ultimate healthy yummy. Even Chocolate Chips are a nice addition, with a little taste of flavor and minimal calories.
One more tip, stick to a color them to really up the festive nature of your platter. Regardless of the holiday, by changing the color scheme, you can attached it to any occasion. Again, the most important is to enjoy yourself and let your creative juices flow. If you try your hand at your own Charcuterie Board, send me your pictures, I love it when you share! Enjoy :)
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