Easy Entertaining : DIY Heart Charcuterie Board
Ah, love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with a heart-shaped charcuterie board that's as easy to assemble as it is delightful to devour? Whether you're marking a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this DIY guide will have you crafting a masterpiece that'll steal hearts and tantalize taste buds. Let's dive in!
Shopping List:
First things first, let's gather our supplies. Head to your favorite grocery store (I have a love affair with Trader Joe's) and grab these essentials:
Fruit: Think juicy red grapes, crisp Pink Lady apples, plump raspberries, and a jar of decadent fig butter (no fridge should be without it!)
Cheese: Make sure to grab a crowd-pleaser like TJ’s Creamy Toscano soaked in Syrah or a Merlot Bellavitano (Sartori and Murray’s both make great ones!). Don’t forget a brie wheel for your heart design, and a cheese you can easily cut into wedges (I used the Tapas Sampler from Trader Joe’s that was precut - easy peasy!)
Meat: Elevate your board with some uncured salami (I used TJ’s Applewood Smoked, but Applegate has a great Genoa Salami that’s more readily available), plus an Italian dry salmai to cut into heart shapes.
Nuts: Mix things up with a blend of sea salt mixed nuts and something sweet. I used Trader Joe’s cinnamon sugar almonds (so good!) but also love Blue Diamond Honey Roasted almonds for this.
Crackers: Keep it classic with water crackers which will stay crisp even if your masterpiece lives in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Garnish: Fresh rosemary (and maybe a touch of sage or thyme) for that final flourish.
Something special, and make it visually appealing: I added Rasberry Mousse Cakes from TJ’s - both because they are delicious, and fit the red/pink aesthetic I was going for!
Other tools:
Heart-shaped charcuterie board (mine is from Target and keeps selling out, here’s a link to a similar one on Amazon)
Note: You could also use a regular charcuterie board, and just outline the heart shape with your larger items as noted below.
Method:
Begin by working on the items that will create a border, and take up the most space. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to create a heart-shaped opening in the brie wheel, then fill it with fig jam.
Arrange your cheese wedges, crackers, cut cheese, and grape clusters around the perimeter of your heart-shaped board.
Create a stunning "salami flower" by layering pieces of uncured salami one by one around the rim of a champagne or small wine glass, overlapping pieces about halfway. Carefully flip it onto the center of your board to release. Pro tip: if time allows, pop it in the fridge for a bit first to help it keep its shape.
Slice the dry salami and use a smaller heart-shaped cutter for an adorable touch. Arrange these slices around one outer edge of your board.
Add any other visually striking elements, like the Raspberry Mousse Cakes, to ensure they are spaced out around the board (random patterns are best!). You can slightly adjust them later if needed, or add layers underneath.
Now, it's time to fill in the gaps! Add more cheese, apples, raspberries, crackers, and nuts, ensuring a balance of colors and flavors throughout.
Finish off with sprigs of fresh rosemary for a burst of color and texture.
Grab your favorite bottle of wine or bubbly, and voila! Your heart-shaped charcuterie board is ready to steal the spotlight at any celebration. So gather your loved ones, raise a glass, and savor every delicious moment together. Cheers to cheese, love, and unforgettable memories!
