Valentines Charcuterie Board for Two

Name: Valentines Charcuterie Board for Two
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 ounces assorted cured meats (prosciutto, salami, and chorizo); 2 ounces of soft cheese (such as Brie or Camembert); 2 ounces of hard cheese (such as aged Gouda or Manchego); 1/2 cup assorted fresh fruits (grapes, strawberries, and figs); 1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, and pecans); 1/4 cup olives (green and black); 1/4 cup honey or fig jam; 1/4 baguette or crackers

Highlighted under: Celebration Food

I love creating a special atmosphere on Valentine's Day, and this charcuterie board is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy evening. With the balance of savory meats, rich cheeses, and a sweet touch of fruit, it's a delightful way to celebrate. Assembling it feels like an art, and the variety allows for personalized preferences – my partner and I often swap our favorite bites. Plus, it's an effortless choice that leaves plenty of time for romance and conversation.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:54:36.104Z

When we put together our first charcuterie board, it was a whimsical experience—everything felt like it came together perfectly. From the selection of cheeses to the array of fruits, it was a beautiful presentation. I learned that mixing colors enhances aesthetics, so I always include vibrant fruits alongside my cheeses. The key is to let flavors contrast and complement, which makes each bite more exciting.

Additionally, I like to add small bowls filled with honey or fig jam for dipping. They bring a touch of sweetness that brightens the savory elements. Over the years, we’ve discovered our personal favorites, and experimenting with new ingredients keeps it fresh and fun!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfect for sharing a romantic evening with your partner.
Offers a delightful array of flavors and textures.
Easy to customize with your favorite meats and cheeses.

Choosing the Right Cheeses

Selecting the right cheeses is essential to balance the flavors on your charcuterie board. Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert offer a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the sharper, nutty flavors of hard cheeses like aged Gouda or Manchego. Aim for a mix of textures: creamy, hard, and crumbly to elevate your snacking experience. If you're looking to switch it up, consider using a blue cheese for a bold flavor or a herbed cheese for added aromatic notes.

Cheese should be served at room temperature for optimal flavor. Take them out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop fully and the textures to soften, making it easier to spread or slice. If you prefer more diversity, consider including a flavored cheese, such as a garlic or truffle-infused option, as it can add an exciting twist to the palate.

Creative Fruit Pairings

Fruits add not just sweetness but also brightness and acidity to your charcuterie board. Combinations like grapes, strawberries, and figs can create an appealing color palette. I like to slice some of the fruits, such as figs and strawberries, for easy picking and enhanced presentation. Tasting fresh fruit alongside the cheese can highlight its creaminess while cutting the richness of the meats. If figs are not available, consider using seasonal fruits like pears or apples, which pair excellently with cheese and nuts.

Pairing fresh fruits with honey or fig jam can create delightful contrasts to savor. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice on apple slices to prevent browning if you're including them. Additionally, consider garnishing with edible flowers for an impressive visual element. This enhances not just the aesthetics but also provides fresh herbal notes that compliment the savory components of the board.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful experience:

Charcuterie Ingredients

2 ounces assorted cured meats (prosciutto, salami, and chorizo)
2 ounces of soft cheese (such as Brie or Camembert)
2 ounces of hard cheese (such as aged Gouda or Manchego)
1/2 cup assorted fresh fruits (grapes, strawberries, and figs)
1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, and pecans)
1/4 cup olives (green and black)
1/4 cup honey or fig jam
1/4 baguette or crackers

Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorites!

Instructions

Assembling your charcuterie board is straightforward and fun:

Prepare the Board

Start by selecting a large board or platter. Lay out the cured meats first, arranging them in a way that looks inviting. Then, add the cheeses next to the meats.

Add Fruits and Nuts

Place the fresh fruits around the cheeses and meats, ensuring a colorful display. Scatter the mixed nuts in a few spots for added texture.

Include Condiments

Add small bowls filled with honey or fig jam near the cheeses. This not only looks great but also invites guests to enjoy sweet contrasts.

Finish with Bread and Crackers

Lastly, arrange sliced baguette or crackers around the edge of the board for easy access.

Now you're ready to enjoy a beautiful charcuterie board with your loved one!

Pro Tips

Don’t hesitate to be creative with your selections. Seasonal fruits and local cheeses can elevate your board to the next level.

Expert Arrangement Tips

When assembling your board, think of it as a visual canvas. Start by arranging your cured meats in a fan shape or rolled into small roses, which draws the eye and makes it inviting. Follow with the cheeses, placing them in varying orientations to create dimension. Leave some space around each item for guests to naturally graze without spilling over. This can elevate the overall look while ensuring everything is easily accessible.

Consider small bowls for your honey or fig jam; they not only contain the stickier ingredients neatly but also add height to the board. Using a mix of different shapes and sizes will keep your board feeling dynamic. Remember to leave room between items to prevent a cluttered look; negative space is just as important as the ingredients themselves.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining freshness. Wrap uneaten cured meats tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Most cheeses do well if wrapped in parchment paper and then placed in a plastic bag or container to avoid moisture accumulation, which can lead to spoilage.

Fruits typically don’t store well longer than a day, especially if sliced. Try to prepare only what you think will be consumed. However, mixed nuts can last for weeks if stored in a cool, dry place. If you have leftover honey or jam, these can be refrigerated and enjoyed later as spreads on toast or added to breakfast items.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the charcuterie board ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep most of the ingredients and assemble it just before serving for the best presentation.

→ What drinks pair well with a charcuterie board?

Wine, especially red or sparkling varieties, pairs beautifully with charcuterie. A light beer or even a fruity mocktail is great too.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Replace meats with vegan deli slices and cheeses with plant-based alternatives. Use nuts and fruits for added texture and flavor.

→ How can I customize my charcuterie board?

Feel free to substitute any of the meats, cheeses, or fruits with your personal favorites! It's all about what you enjoy most.