Pin this 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 been my go-to for summer parties since it impresses guests while being simple to assemble.
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
- Step 1:
- Arrange the cheeses in the center of a large board, forming the body of the butterfly.
- Step 2:
- Fan out the fruits, vegetables, and charcuterie on either side to create wings, using symmetry for a butterfly effect.
- Step 3:
- Use pineapple pieces cut with a butterfly-shaped cutter and place them on the wings for extra flair.
- Step 4:
- Fill in spaces with crackers, bread slices, and rolled charcuterie.
- Step 5:
- Garnish the board with edible flowers and fresh mint leaves for a summery finish.
- Step 6:
- Serve with a small bowl of honey or fruit preserves on the side.
Pin this This summer board always brings my family together for a relaxed and happy afternoon outdoors.
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. Edible flowers: confirm edibility and source. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
310 calories per serving, 15 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, 12 g protein
Pin this Prepare this board just before serving to keep fruits fresh and crackers crunchy.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the butterfly shape on the board?
Arrange cheeses centrally to form the butterfly’s body, then symmetrically place fruits, vegetables, and charcuterie on each side as wings. Use butterfly-shaped pineapple pieces for accent.
- → Can the board be made vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, omit the charcuterie for a vegetarian option. For vegan, use plant-based cheeses and skip all animal products while maintaining fresh fruits and vegetables.
- → What are suitable garnishes to enhance the presentation?
Edible flowers such as pansies and violets, along with fresh mint leaves, add vibrant color and freshness to the board’s look and flavor.
- → How should I serve accompaniments with this board?
Provide small bowls of honey or fruit preserves alongside the board to complement the cheeses and fruits with a touch of sweetness.
- → What tools help in preparing this grazing board?
A large serving platter, small bowls for dips, cheese knives, tongs, and a butterfly-shaped cookie cutter for fruit pieces are useful for assembling and serving.