By Kristi Winkels, RDN, LD

 

Snack boards, also known as charcuterie boards, are made by arranging a variety of bite-sized foods on a wooden board or a platter of some kind.

Creating a snack board is easy and can often be done using foods you already have on hand. In fact, it’s a great way to use up little bits of food that you have in your pantry and refrigerator. Plus, it’s like creating a work of art and can be a fun activity for the whole family!

What to include on a snack board

Snack boards usually include a variety of different tastes, textures, and colors. To keep your board simple, choose about five main items and then fill in with other smaller bites.

Here are just a few ideas of things you can choose from:

 

Proteins

• Salami
• Ham
• Prosciutto
• Turkey rolls
• Pickled herring
• Cubes of chicken

Cheese

• Mozzarella balls
• Cubed cheddar
• Brie
• Cheese ball spread
• Slices of your favorite  cheese

Dips/Spreads

• Chutneys
• Hummus
• Greek yogurt dill dip
• Greek yogurt drizzled with honey

Fruits

• Clementines
• Grapes
• Thinly sliced apples or pears
• Pomegranate seeds
• Fresh berries
• Dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or dates

Vegetables

• Sliced cucumbers
• Baby carrots
• Mini peppers
• Pea pods
• Cubed jicama
• Cherry tomatoes

Breads/Grains

• Whole grain crackers
• Pretzels
• Pita chips
• Bread sticks
• Thinly sliced baguette

Extras

• Olives
• Pickles
• Roasted garbanzo beans
• Chocolate covered pretzels
• Almonds or other nuts

How to assemble your snack board

 

1. Start by creating a "river" of one item from  one end of the board to the other . This is often slices of meat or cheese (but it doesn't have to be!)
2. Place a few small bowls throughout the board to use for smaller foods or those that have more moisture such as olives or pickles
3. Fill in the open spaces with other items.

Have fun creating your very own edible work of art!