Save A vibrant and whimsical grazing board inspired by summer, featuring fresh fruits, cheeses, charcuterie, and edible flowers artfully arranged in butterfly shapes—perfect for picnics and gatherings.
This board has always been a hit at my summer parties, bringing both beauty and deliciousness to the table.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 100 g brie sliced, 100 g goat cheese crumbled, 100 g cheddar cubed, 100 g gouda sliced
- Charcuterie (optional for vegetarians): 75 g prosciutto folded, 75 g salami rolled
- Fresh Fruits: 1 cup strawberries halved, 1 cup blueberries, 1 cup green grapes halved, 1 cup pineapple cut into butterfly shapes (use mini cookie cutter), 1 kiwi sliced
- Vegetables: 1 cup cucumber sliced into rounds, 1 cup baby carrots halved lengthwise, 1 red bell pepper sliced into strips
- Crackers & Bread: 1 cup assorted crackers, 1 baguette sliced
- Garnishes: ¼ cup edible flowers (such as pansies, violets, nasturtiums), 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, Honey or fruit preserves (for serving)
Instructions
- Arrange Cheeses:
- Arrange the cheeses in the center of a large board, forming the body of the butterfly.
- Create Wings:
- Fan out the fruits, vegetables, and charcuterie on either side to create wings, using symmetry for a butterfly effect.
- Add Pineapple Shapes:
- Use pineapple pieces cut with a butterfly-shaped cutter and place them on the wings for extra flair.
- Fill Spaces:
- Fill in spaces with crackers, bread slices, and rolled charcuterie.
- Garnish:
- Garnish the board with edible flowers and fresh mint leaves for a summery finish.
- Serve:
- Serve with a small bowl of honey or fruit preserves on the side.
Save This board brings my family together every summer, sparking conversation and smiles.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, small bowls for dips or honey, mini butterfly-shaped cookie cutter (optional), cheese knives and small tongs.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (crackers, bread). Charcuterie may contain pork and nitrates. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 8 servings with cheese and charcuterie): Calories 310, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 12 g.
Save Prepare this board ahead for stress-free entertaining and enjoy the colorful presentation.
Recipe Guide
- → What cheeses work best for this board?
Soft and semi-hard cheeses like brie, goat cheese, cheddar, and gouda create a balanced mix of creamy and flavorful textures.
- → How can I adapt this board for vegetarians?
Omit the charcuterie and consider adding plant-based cheeses or extra nuts and dried fruits for variety.
- → What edible flowers are suitable here?
Pansies, violets, and nasturtiums are visually appealing and safe to eat; always confirm source safety before use.
- → How should the pineapple be prepared?
Use a mini butterfly-shaped cookie cutter to create decorative pineapple pieces that enhance the board’s butterfly motif.
- → What beverages pair well with this summer board?
Crisp rosé, sparkling wine, or iced herbal tea complement the fresh and savory flavors perfectly.
- → Can I prepare this board in advance?
Arrange fruits and cheeses shortly before serving to maintain freshness, and keep garnishes like mint and flowers chilled separately.