Pin This 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 love preparing this board for summer get-togethers because it is colorful and brings a joyful vibe to the table.
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 This This board always brings smiles when shared with family on warm summer evenings.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 310 Total Fat 15 g Carbohydrates 32 g Protein 12 g (per serving based on 8 servings with cheese and charcuterie)
Pin This This board is a stunning centerpiece and a delicious treat for any summer occasion.
Recipe Q&A
- → What cheeses work best on this board?
Soft cheeses like brie and goat cheese along with firmer options like cheddar and gouda create a creamy and textured variety ideal for this setup.
- → Can the charcuterie be omitted?
Yes, omitting the charcuterie makes this board fully vegetarian without compromising flavor and appeal.
- → How do I create the butterfly effect with the ingredients?
Arrange cheeses centrally as the body, then fan fruits, vegetables, and meats symmetrically on either side to resemble butterfly wings.
- → What garnishes enhance the board’s presentation?
Edible flowers and fresh mint leaves add color and freshness, highlighting the summery theme.
- → Are there recommended drink pairings?
Chilled rosé, sparkling wine, or iced herbal tea complement the fresh and savory elements beautifully.
- → How long does preparation take?
About 25 minutes is sufficient to arrange all components thoughtfully for an attractive display.