Name: Heart Charcuterie Board (Ready in 15 Minutes)
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup strawberries, halved; 1 cup raspberries; 1/2 cup red grapes; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes; 1/2 cup mini mozzarella balls; 4 oz salami, folded; 4 oz prosciutto; 4 oz sliced cheddar cheese; 4 oz brie cheese, sliced or cubed; 1/2 cup chocolate hearts or chocolate-covered treats; 1/2 cup heart-shaped crackers or regular crackers; Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love Heart Charcuterie Board (Ready in 15 Minutes) Recipe

Quick and easy to assemble
Customizable with your favorite ingredients
Visually stunning centerpiece for any event
Balanced flavors and textures in every bite
Fun and festive presentation that’s perfect for sharing

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup assorted cheeses (brie, cheddar, goat cheese)
1 cup cured meats (salami, prosciutto, chorizo)
1 cup fresh fruits (grapes, strawberries, apple slices)
1/2 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts)
1/2 cup olives (green and black)
1/2 cup crackers
1/4 cup honey (for drizzling)
1/4 cup dried fruits (apricots, figs)

Directions

Select a large wooden or marble board, ideally at least 18 inches wide.
Start by arranging the cheeses in the shape of a heart in the center of the board.
Fold or layer the cured meats around and within the heart shape.
Fill in the empty spaces with fresh fruits, ensuring even color and texture distribution.
Add piles of nuts and olives around the edges or in corners.
Line one side of the board with crackers.
Drizzle honey over selected fruits or cheeses.
Sprinkle dried fruits across the board for added sweetness and color.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 people
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Tropical flair: Add mango, pineapple, or kiwi slices.
Vegetarian version: Replace meats with roasted vegetables or marinated artichokes.
Extra cheesy: Include blue cheese, gouda, or smoked varieties.
Kid-friendly: Use mild cheeses, deli meats, and fun-shaped fruit pieces.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover items in separate airtight containers.
Wrap cheeses and meats tightly to preserve freshness.
Keep fruits away from crackers to prevent sogginess.
No reheating needed—serve leftovers cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this board ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare ingredients in advance and assemble the board shortly before serving for the best freshness.

What if I don’t have a heart-shaped board?

You can use a round or rectangular board and arrange ingredients in a heart shape manually.

Is this board suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely—just omit the meats and add extra cheeses, fruits, and veggies.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free crackers and double-check meat and cheese labels.

How do I transport the board without it shifting?

Use a rimmed tray, and cover with plastic wrap or foil. Secure loose items in small bowls or containers.

What cheeses work best for this recipe?

A variety is ideal: soft (brie), semi-hard (cheddar), and tangy (goat cheese).

Can I add spreads or dips?

Yes. Include small bowls of hummus, jam, or mustard to elevate the flavor experience.

How long can the board sit out?

Charcuterie boards can stay out for about 2 hours. After that, store perishables back in the fridge.

What’s the best way to serve this for a large crowd?

Double the ingredients and prepare on a larger board or two smaller ones side by side.

How can I make it more festive for a holiday?

Incorporate themed items—red fruits for Valentine’s, spooky snacks for Halloween, or holiday-shaped cheeses.

Conclusion

This heart charcuterie board combines elegance, flavor, and fun in a visually captivating way. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or hosting a festive get-together, it’s an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that brings people together. With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll create a stunning and delicious centerpiece everyone will love.