Pin it 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 our summer picnics, bringing smiles and compliments every time I create it.
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 it We love gathering around this board on warm afternoons sharing stories and delicious bites together.
Notes
Add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture. Use any combination of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Pair with a crisp rosé, sparkling wine, or iced herbal tea.
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.
Pin it This board is sure to brighten any gathering and delight your guests with its fresh flavors and vibrant presentation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are best for this board?
A mix of brie, goat cheese, cheddar, and gouda provides a balance of creamy, tangy, and mild flavors that complement fresh fruits and vegetables.
- → Can I make this board vegetarian?
Omit the charcuterie and consider adding plant-based cheese alternatives or extra fruits and nuts for texture and variety.
- → How do I achieve the butterfly shape with pineapple?
Use a mini butterfly-shaped cookie cutter to create charming pineapple pieces that add visual interest on the board.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Edible flowers like pansies and nasturtiums along with fresh mint leaves provide a fresh and whimsical touch to the setup.
- → What drinks pair well with this board?
Crisp rosé, sparkling wine, or iced herbal tea complement the fresh flavors and variety of textures beautifully.
- → How should I serve dips or sweet accompaniments?
Small bowls with honey or fruit preserves placed alongside the board add subtle sweetness and enhance flavor balance.