When the sun is out, the food should be too. Summer is made for casual outdoor dining, and nothing pairs better with sunshine than an al fresco charcuterie board. Whether you’re planning a backyard brunch, rooftop gathering, or picnic at the park, a well-crafted grazing board makes any outdoor setting feel elevated.
Here’s how to create the ultimate outdoor charcuterie board that’s portable, beautiful, and crowd-pleasing.
Choose Summer-Friendly Ingredients
Not everything travels well in warm weather. Keep it fresh and fuss-free with ingredients that hold up outside:
- Cheeses: Aged gouda, cheddar, manchego, and provolone
- Meats: Salami, prosciutto, turkey medallions
- Fruits & Veggies: Grapes, strawberries, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes
- Crunch & Pairings: Almonds, dried apricots, fig jam, pretzel chips, crostini
Need help selecting and styling your ingredients? Try one of our pre-packed DIY Boxes or visit cheese and charcuterie for fresh, curated inspiration.
Tips for Transport & Display
- Use a lidded tray or board with handles to keep everything safe in transit.
- Bring small bowls or jars for dips and spreads like hummus or honey.
- Freeze grapes or place cold packs underneath to keep ingredients fresh.
- Decorate with fresh herbs or edible flowers to elevate the presentation.
Add the Final Touches
Bring along a light wine, sparkling lemonade, or infused water to complete your setup. Add cloth napkins, bamboo utensils, and a soft picnic blanket — and you’ve got yourself a delicious, elegant outdoor grazing experience.
Celebrate summer with an outdoor board designed to impress. Visit cheese and charcuterie to shop our DIY kits or request a custom board perfect for your next sunny day out.