What To Serve With Charcuterie Board? 15 Best Side Dishes

There's something undeniably appealing about a charcuterie board. The medley of cured meats, tangy cheeses, olives, fruits, and nuts offers a gastronomic adventure in every bite.

But the question always comes up – what to serve alongside to make it a more rounded meal? Here, I've gathered some of my favorite side dishes that can enhance your charcuterie board experience.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with a charcuterie board are ricotta, ham and cheese pinwheels, ranch crackers, Caprese salad, pita bread, homemade yogurt, cheese Rangoon, crostini, stuffed olives, vegetable sticks and hummus, fruit jam or preserves, mini quiches, marinated artichoke hearts, pickled onions, and bruschetta.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Ricotta

Smooth and creamy ricotta is a delightful addition to a charcuterie board. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor complements the salty, savory flavors of the meats and cheeses. Serve it in a small bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkling of fresh herbs, and it's a perfect spread for crusty bread or crackers.

2. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Ham and cheese pinwheels add a fun, whimsical touch to your charcuterie spread. They're made by rolling ham and cheese inside a layer of puff pastry and then slicing them into little spirals. They're flavorful, bite-sized, and a hit with both adults and kids.

3. Ranch Crackers

Ranch crackers, with their zesty, savory seasoning, can add a delightful crunch to your charcuterie board. Their robust flavor can stand up to the rich meats and cheeses, and they're perfect for scooping up soft cheese or dipping into spreads.

4. Caprese Salad

A Caprese salad, with its bright, fresh flavors, can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of a charcuterie board. The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction is a classic for a reason.

5. Pita Bread

Pita bread is versatile and pairs well with virtually anything on a charcuterie board. It can be cut into triangles for easy dipping and scooping, and its mild flavor doesn't compete with the flavors of the meats and cheeses. Warm it slightly before serving for an extra touch of coziness.

6. Yogurt

Homemade yogurt, with its creamy texture and slight tang, can be a surprisingly good match for a charcuterie board. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkling of granola for a touch of sweetness, or mix in some herbs and garlic for a savory version.

7. Cheese Rangoon

Cheese Rangoon, or cheese wontons, are a delectably crunchy and cheesy side dish. The crisp, golden-brown wonton wrappers encase a melty cheese filling, providing a delightful contrast of textures. They're a unique, slightly indulgent accompaniment to a charcuterie board.

8. Crostini

Crostini, little slices of toasted bread, are the ultimate blank canvas for your charcuterie board. They're just the right size for a bite and can be topped with anything, from a slice of cheese or meat to a smear of ricotta or homemade yogurt. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and toast them until they're golden and crispy.

9. Stuffed Olives

Adding a variety of stuffed olives can introduce a new layer of flavor and texture to your board. Whether you choose olives filled with almonds, garlic, blue cheese, or pimento, they each bring a unique taste. Their briny flavor complements the other elements on the board, making them an essential addition.

10. Vegetable Sticks and Hummus

Vegetable sticks paired with hummus can bring a touch of freshness to the rich and diverse flavors of a charcuterie board. Crisp bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offer a refreshing crunch, while the smooth, earthy hummus provides a delicious dip that's both healthy and satisfying.

11. Fruit Jam

The sweet and tart flavor of fruit jam or preserves can counterbalance the savory and salty elements of your charcuterie board. Consider classics like strawberry or raspberry, or branch out to fig or apricot. A dollop of jam on a piece of cheese or meat can be a delightful flavor combination.

12. Mini Quiches

Mini quiches are a delicious and charming side that can add a touch of elegance to your charcuterie board. Whether you opt for classic ham and cheese, spinach and feta, or caramelized onion and goat cheese, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests.

13. Marinated Artichoke Hearts

Marinated artichoke hearts can add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to your charcuterie board. Their unique texture and taste are a welcome addition to the variety of flavors on the board. Plus, they pair particularly well with both meats and cheeses.

14. Pickled Onions

Pickled onions, with their vibrant color and tangy flavor, can provide a zesty contrast to the richer elements on your charcuterie board. They're easy to make at home, and their crunchy texture and acidity can help cleanse the palate between bites.

15. Bruschetta

Bruschetta, a classic Italian appetizer, can add a fresh, tomato-based flavor to your board. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil atop crusty bread is a flavor bomb that goes perfectly with the various elements of your charcuterie spread.

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