A good charcuterie board does not need to be complicated. Start with two or three meats, something creamy, something crunchy, and a little sweetness. At Vaughn Family Meat Co., we like to mix sliced salami, our smoked summer sausage, and a few folds of prosciutto-style ham for variety.

Building the Board

Add a wedge of sharp cheddar or a soft cheese from a local dairy, then fill gaps with crackers, pickled vegetables, and nuts. A small dish of whole-grain mustard or honey goes a long way. Slice meats thin so guests can actually eat them without wrestling with the board.

For a Gardnerville gathering, we will sometimes tuck in dried apricots or a handful of almonds from regional growers. Stop by the counter and tell us how many people you are feeding—we will help you pick portions so you are not left with a pile of lonely crackers at the end of the night.