7 Alternative Charcuterie Boards for Your Next Party

Foodies rejoice! We’re stepping away from the traditional cheese board this year and elevating that dinner party to the next level. Meet: the alternative charcuterie board. It all started out as a way to meet various dietary requirements (the vegan board, the gluten-free board, the dairy-free board) and turned into an exploration of cultures, themes and just plain over-the-top creations. 

The best part about the cheese plate revolution is that they are what you make them to be. From presentations with a Japanese flair to arrangements revisiting your childhood, we’ve got you. Let’s take a look at our top 7 charcuterie boards to present at your next party. 

1. The Breakfast Board

Family and friends brunch party? Introducing — the breakfast board! It’s simple. First you take a vote (or make an executive decision) and put your star at center stage. Think pancakes versus waffles. Beyond that, it’s up to you! Here are the best ways to dress them up:

• Choice of maple syrup, premium honey, agave nectar or keto syrup alternatives to taste

• Variety of berries and fruit for topping

• Additional cinnamon, icing sugar or whipped cream to decorate

• Meat lovers, don’t forget bacon or sausage on the side

The breakfast board is perfect for early risers celebrating special events like bachelorette parties, weddings or anniversaries.

2. Bagel Board

If we’re looking for the perfect board for breakfast, lunches, or midafternoon lounging, a bagel board may be just the thing. Believe it or not, you really can dress up that bagel! Your choices could range from a local shop to international orders - it’s up to you. As for sides, the options are endless.

• Cream cheese New York City style - in all the flavors

• Hummus, egg salad or hard-boiled eggs

• Capers and lox for a traditional appeal

• Smashed avocado

Of course you’ll need the perfect charcuterie board to display your bagel board. It’s not hard to make a great arrangement with this crowd-pleaser!

3. The Sushi Board

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This next alternative is pure genius. If you and your guests are sushi fans, this one can be arranged as a vegan or vegetarian dish. The sushi board takes the flavors of Japan and incorporates them into a crowd-pleasing platter like no other. You can purchase or make the sushi and add these sides to customize it:

• Edamame beans steamed seasoned with salt, garlic or a bit of spice

• Wasabi and pickled ginger

• Soy sauce and/or sesame oil

And don’t forget your chopsticks!

4. The Hot Dog Board

Yes, we’re going from sushi to Chicago’s favorite treat — the hot dog board is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Think tailgate parties, Superbowl Sunday, and birthday parties. The hot dog board is gloriously simple and fun! Aside from the main event (the dog itself) you’ll want to add:

• All the traditional toppings: ketchup, mustard, relish

• Diced onions, peppers or sour crout

• Chopped bacon and melted cheese for a luxurious drizzle on top

• An assortment of buns: think traditional soft white buns, pretzel buns, cheese and onion buns

You don’t have to get too fancy with this one. We’ve never heard a sigh of disappointment when served at the right time.

5. Swedish Smorgas-board

Believe it or not, your Swedish cravings can extend beyond those Ikea meatballs. This board will have your guests coming back for more. Start with smoked or cured salmon and pickled herring and go from there. Add on:

• Cold meats and pâté at your leisure

• Red cabbage or pickled onion 

• Meatballs or a light quiche depending on the season

This one is best served with beer or aquavit. 

6. S’mores Plate

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Planning an outdoor campfire-style gathering? The s’mores charcuterie board is packed with delicious treats. In the middle, we have marshmallows of course! You can pre-toast them or let your guests do the work. Surround the marshmallows with a variety of flat square or round chocolates from your local specialty shop. Here are the other fixings you’ll need:

• Graham wafers if you are going the traditional route

• Alternatives to graham wafers: Belgian-style wafer cookies, Girl Scout cookies, homemade cookies — we’ve seen it all so get creative

• Berries and banana slices for a fondue-type s’more

This plate is sure to bring your guests together!

7. Mexican Board

Get the party started with a touch of spice. The Mexican board is perfect for the summer backyard barbeque. This build-your-own taco event will keep your guests perfectly satisfied! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Small hard and soft taco shells

• Meat fillings including chicken, beef and sausage or vegan alternatives like these ones

• All the sides: lettuce, onions, cheese, guacamole, sour cream and some pico de gaillo

The rest is up to you. Add a side table full of adventurous sauces and let your guests build their dream treat!

Now that your mouth is officially watering, it’s time to start meal planning. Begin at your grocery store and hit up your local specialty shops for the freshest and most unique ingredients to compliment these modern boards and you’ll be all ready to entertain in style. Bon appetit!