Recipe: Patriotic-themed charcuterie board

Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to gather friends and family for a fun, festive celebration. Whether you’re planning a Fourth of July bash or simply want to add some patriotic flair to your next barbecue, a patriotic-themed charcuterie board is the perfect way to impress your guests. It’s colorful, delicious and incredibly easy to put together. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a patriotic-themed charcuterie board that will be the star of any summer gathering.

Here’s what you’ll need

• Cherry tomatoes
• Cheese cubes (cheddar or your favorite variety)
• Your favorite dip
• Crackers
• Mini peppers, preferably red
• Blue tortilla chips
• Salami
• Blueberries
• Swiss cheese slices, cut into star shapes

Step 1: Choose your board

Start with a large, flat serving board or platter. If you don’t have a traditional charcuterie board, a large cutting board or even a baking sheet will do the trick. The key is to have a surface big enough to arrange all your ingredients beautifully.

Step 2: Create the base with blue

Begin by placing the blue tortilla chips and blueberries on one side of the board. This will represent the blue part of the American flag. Spread them out to create a base layer, ensuring they cover a substantial portion of the board.

Step 3: Add the red elements

Next, scatter the cherry tomatoes and mini peppers around the board. These bright red elements will add a pop of color and vibrancy. You can place the tomatoes in small clusters and the mini peppers in neat rows or a fan shape for visual interest.

Step 4: Incorporate white and yellow

Now it’s time to add the cheese cubes. Arrange them in neat rows or small piles, strategically placing them around the board to create a balance of color. The yellow cheese cubes will contrast beautifully with the red and blue elements.

Step 5: Include meats

Roll up the salami slices and tuck them into any empty spaces on the board. Salami adds a savory element, and its rich color complements the overall theme. You can roll them into small cones or simply fold them for a variety of textures and shapes.

Step 6: Crackers and ranch dip

Place the crackers around the board, either in small stacks or fanned out for a decorative touch. For the ranch dip, use a small bowl and place it near the center or off to one side of the board. This will make it easy for guests to dip their veggies and crackers.

Step 7: Star of the show

Finally, add the slices of Swiss cheese cut into star shapes. These stars will be the finishing touch that ties the entire board together. Place them on top of the blue tortilla chips and blueberries to mimic the stars on the American flag. You can use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to easily cut out the shapes from slices of Swiss cheese.

Step 8: Final touches

Once all the elements are in place, step back and adjust any items as needed to ensure an even distribution of colors and ingredients. Feel free to add garnishes like fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nuts for extra flair.

Your patriotic-themed charcuterie board is now ready to wow your guests. Place it in the center of your gathering space and allow everyone to dig in. Pair it with some refreshing summer drinks like lemonade, iced tea or a festive cocktail to complete the celebration. Happy Fourth of July and happy summer hosting.

Andrea Mathis is a registered dietitian and owner of Beautiful Eats & Things. For more great recipes, visit beautifuleatsandthings.com.