Save 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.
I enjoy creating this board for summer picnics as it brings joy and color to any table and is easy to assemble ahead of time.
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
- Arrange cheeses:
- Arrange the cheeses in the center of a large board, forming the body of the butterfly.
- Create wings:
- Fan out the fruits, vegetables, and charcuterie on either side to create wings, using symmetry for a butterfly effect.
- Add pineapple shapes:
- Use pineapple pieces cut with a butterfly-shaped cutter and place them on the wings for extra flair.
- Fill gaps:
- Fill in spaces with crackers, bread slices, and rolled charcuterie.
- Garnish:
- Garnish the board with edible flowers and fresh mint leaves for a summery finish.
- Serve:
- Serve with a small bowl of honey or fruit preserves on the side.
Save Gathering around this board has become a family favorite summer tradition filled with laughter and shared stories.
Notes
For a vegan board, use plant-based cheeses and omit charcuterie. 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.
Save This board is perfect to customize to your tastes and makes entertaining effortless and fun.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the butterfly shape on the board?
Arrange cheeses centrally to form the body, and fan out fruits, vegetables, and charcuterie symmetrically on both sides to form wings. Use butterfly-shaped pineapple pieces for accent.
- → Can this board be made fully vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the charcuterie or substitute with plant-based alternatives to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
- → What are some good accompaniments to serve with this board?
Pair with crisp rosé, sparkling wine, or iced herbal tea to complement the fresh and savory flavors.
- → How do I choose edible flowers for garnish?
Select safe, food-grade edible flowers such as pansies, violets, or nasturtiums, ensuring they are sourced from trusted suppliers.
- → Can I prepare this board ahead of time?
Yes, prep the ingredients in advance and assemble shortly before serving to keep fruits fresh and crackers crisp.