Ingredients

3.5 oz prosciutto

3.5 oz salami

3.5 oz soppressata

3.5 oz brie cheese

3.5 oz sharp cheddar cheese

3.5 oz manchego cheese

1 cup seedless grapes

1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

1 medium apple, sliced

1 medium pear, sliced

1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)

1/4 cup dried apricots

1/4 cup fig jam or honey

1 small baguette, sliced

1 box assorted crackers

12 ube macarons (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Step 1: Arrange the cured meats in loose ribbons or small piles across a large serving board or platter for easy picking.

Step 2: Slice each cheese and display them in separate zones, fanning the slices to make selection effortless.

Step 3: Cluster the seedless grapes and mixed berries; layer the apple and pear slices nearby, grouping similar colors for a pleasing appearance.

Step 4: Place the mixed nuts and dried apricots in small piles or use individual bowls scattered around the board.

Step 5: Fill open spaces with sliced baguette and an assortment of crackers to complement the meats and cheeses.

Step 6: Add a small dish of fig jam or honey in a central spot to balance savory and sweet flavors.

Step 7: Nestle the ube macarons in a prominent area on the board or scatter them for a decorative, colorful touch.

Step 8: Serve the board immediately, or cover and refrigerate until needed. Allow the macarons to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

Tips & Variations

Swap out fruits based on seasonality—pears and apples can be replaced with figs or dried cherries for a different sweetness.

Try adding a few olives or pickles to introduce a tangy contrast to the rich meats and cheeses.

For a vegetarian option, replace the meats with marinated vegetables or additional cheeses.

Use flavored honey, like lavender or rosemary, to add an extra layer of aroma and taste.

Storage

Cover the charcuterie board tightly with plastic wrap or place components separately in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the macarons in a cool, dry place but away from strong odors. Before serving, bring all elements, especially the macarons and cheeses, to room temperature to enhance their flavors.

FAQs

Can I prepare the charcuterie board in advance?

Yes, you can assemble most parts of the board a few hours ahead of time, but add delicate items like crackers and macarons just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.

What makes ube macarons special on a charcuterie board?

Ube macarons bring a vibrant purple hue and a subtle, sweet flavor derived from purple yam, adding both visual appeal and a unique taste contrast to the savory elements of the board.