New Year’s Eve, especially this year, is the perfect time to enjoy a small celebration at home. Look back on the past year and look ahead to the coming days of 2021. Though the festivities may be smaller this year, there are still plenty of options for New Year’s Eve appetizers and snacks to share. A New Year’s Eve Charcuterie Board is the perfect collection of meats, cheeses, and sweets for the whole crowd to snack on. And don’t forget the bubbly to ring in the new year on National Champagne Day!
Always the entertainer, I miss cooking for friends and loved ones in my home. For years, I filled my kitchen with food and friends as laughter filled the air. Though I typically spend the day cooking without complaint, one of my favorite simple snacks is a charcuterie board.
What is a Charcuterie Board?
Simply stated, a charcuterie board is a meat and cheese plate. I’ve always had an easy time finding a meat and cheese plate at the grocery store to bring along to Super Bowl parties or for a quick appetizer. With their growing popularity, charcuterie boards are now available for purchase at specialty grocers. It’s no longer just meat and cheese either, as most include olives, dried fruits, or nuts as well.
Additionally, there are plenty of beautiful charcuterie boards (otherwise known as “grazing boxes”) curated locally by small shop owners. Grazing boxes come in many sizes and often offer customization. A charcuterie board or grazing box is the perfect New Year’s Eve appetizer. I found Olive&Fig Co. (who put together the items pictured above) through Instagram as a local San Diego grazing box and charcuterie board creator. Check her out!
Building a New Year’s Eve Charcuterie Board at Home
Feeling adventurous and want to create a charcuterie board of your own? Creating a charcuterie board at home is as simple as pairing meats and cheeses and adding accompaniments such as fruits and nuts.
- Cured meats such as pepperoni or salami complement the sweet creaminess of goat cheese. Add honeycomb for an extra crunch.
- A lighter meat like thinly sliced prosciutto pairs well with the bold flavors of gorgonzola. Add fig spread for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Include a side of salted pistachios or almonds to snack on between meat and cheese pairings.
- Add something sweet to the charcuterie board with dried cranberries or cherries, or chocolate dipped strawberries.
- Crackers or bread slices are a must! Crusty French bread and water crackers are perfect for dipping in hummus or layering with melted brie and prosciutto.
- Dips such as spinach artichoke dip or pimiento cheese are great to include, especially for a nice vegetarian option.
- Don’t forget the veggies! Cucumber or zucchini slices can be swapped out for crackers or bread for a keto-friendly charcuterie board. Baby carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower florets are always a good idea to include too.
What would your dream charcuterie board look like? Let me know in the comments!
For more Ideas and Recipes for New Year’s Eve Appetizers, check out my post on the Zulily blog.
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