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 love how this board brings a fun and festive mood to any summer get-together with minimal prep.
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.
Save This board always sparks joy when shared with family and friends on sunny afternoons.
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
Per serving based on 8 servings with cheese and charcuterie: Calories 310, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 12 g
Save This Butterfly Summer Board is an effortless way to impress guests while enjoying fresh seasonal flavors.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I create the butterfly shape on the board?
Arrange cheeses to form the butterfly body in the center, then fan out the fresh fruits, vegetables, and charcuterie symmetrically on either side as wings. Use butterfly-shaped pineapple pieces to accentuate the wings.
- → Can the board be made vegan-friendly?
Yes, replace dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives and omit charcuterie to make a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing flavor or presentation.
- → What types of edible flowers are suitable for this board?
Edible flowers such as pansies, violets, and nasturtiums add color and elegance. Always ensure flowers are sourced from safe, edible suppliers.
- → What pairings go well with this summer board?
This board pairs wonderfully with crisp rosé, sparkling wine, or iced herbal teas to complement the fresh and savory elements.
- → How long can the board be prepared ahead of time?
Assemble the components up to a few hours ahead and cover to maintain freshness. Add crackers, bread, and garnishes just before serving for best texture.
- → Are there allergen considerations to keep in mind?
Yes, this spread contains dairy and gluten, and charcuterie may include pork and nitrates. Verify all ingredients and flowers for potential allergens.