How to Make a Meat & Cheese Tray

My go-to party snack is a meat and cheese tray.  It’s simple to put together, always a hit at parties, and doesn’t require turning on the oven.  It’s also an easy appetizer to assemble if you are taking it on the go.  And, everyone likes a little pre-meal snacking!

If you follow the simple tips, putting together your next meat and cheese tray will be quick and simple!

How to Make a Meat & Cheese Tray

Start with the Cheeses.  Always choose a minimum of three cheeses for your tray.  I start with a cheddar cheese of some type, then I choose a blue or other flavored cheese.  On the above tray, I opted to go with a Gouda with Dill cheese.  Then, add in a soft cheese, like Havarti or Goat Cheese.  Those three options always form a great base.  If you want to add something, choose a hard cheese, like an Asiago or Parmesan.  Serving at least one of those choices in a cube form makes snacking easier for guests.  I also slice a few slices from the block before putting them on the tray.  Make sure to keep out mini cheese cutters or knives so guests can slice the rest of the cheeses.

Next add the Meat.  So many great meat options are now available at the grocery store.  Choose at least two varieties of meats for you tray.  Options such as salami and prosciutto make a great choice.

Don’t forget a little Crunch.  Crisp crackers and breadsticks make the perfect accompaniment to meat and cheese trays.  Serve your crackers on a side plate or platter so guests can easily grab them.  I prefer to choose at least two flat crackers options, then add in a least one other breadstick style cracker.

The Extras.  No meat and cheese platter is complete without something a little sweet to balance out the salty taste of the cheese and meat.  With the above tray, I served Fig Butter and my brother’s homemade Cranberry Onion Jam.  The sweet flavor goes perfectly on a cracker, topped with salty cheese.  You can also add some nuts and olives to your tray for one more snacking option.

Following these simple tips, will make assembling a Meat & Cheese Tray a breeze.  It might just become your go-to appetizer for the summer!