Description
This festive Christmas Charcuterie Board is a visually stunning and delicious assortment of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, cheeses, cured meats, crackers, fruits, nuts, and sweet treats. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it combines fresh, savory, and sweet flavors arranged in a cheerful candy-cane shape to delight guests and simplify entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Produce
- 3 fresh tomatoes, sliced into rounds
- 2 fresh mozzarella balls (8 ounces each), sliced
- 1/2 English cucumber, sliced
- Fresh herbs (such as basil leaves, oregano, or rosemary)
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
Dairy & Meat
- 4 ounces cheese cubes (cheddar, Manchego, or other)
- 4 ounces salami or other cured meats
Condiments & Oils
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons balsamic reduction
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Snacks & Nuts
- 8 ounces crackers and bruschetta toasts
- 2 ounces small pretzel sticks
- 1/3 cup mixed nuts
Dried & Sweet
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (apricots, figs, or other)
- 1/4 cup chocolate Christmas candy
Instructions
- Arrange Tomatoes and Mozzarella: On a large cutting board or slate board, neatly arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella slices into a candy-cane shape for a festive presentation.
- Drizzle Olive Oil and Balsamic: Lightly drizzle the arranged tomatoes and mozzarella with extra virgin olive oil, then add the balsamic reduction glaze, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt to enhance flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Decorate around the candy-cane shape with fresh basil leaves or other herbs like oregano or rosemary to add a fresh aroma and color contrast.
- Place Cheese, Meats, and Crackers: Arrange the cheese cubes, salami slices, crackers, bruschetta toasts, and pretzel sticks on the board in sections for easy access and visual appeal.
- Fill in Empty Spaces: Use the green olives, dried fruit slices, cucumber rounds, mixed nuts, additional fresh herbs, and pomegranate seeds to fill all gaps on the board, creating a full and balanced look.
- Serve Immediately: Present the charcuterie board right away to maintain freshness and crisp textures. Encourage guests to enjoy the variety of flavors and textures offered.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella.
- Balsamic reduction can be purchased or homemade by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened.
- Variations of cheese and cured meats can be tailored to personal preference.
- Keep the crackers and pretzels dry and separate from moist items until serving to maintain crunch.
- This board is best served fresh and is not meant for storing long term.
