There’s no better way to celebrate the summer months than with a beautifully arranged charcuterie board, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re planning a casual apéro in the garden, a picnic in the park, or a relaxed dinner soirée, a well-crafted French charcuterie board brings elegance and flavour to the table with very little effort.
What is a charcuterie board?
A charcuterie board (pronounced sha·koo·tuh·ree) is traditionally a selection of cured meats, often paired with cheeses, pickles, breads, fruits, and spreads. In France, it’s a staple of convivial summer gatherings – served before meals, alongside drinks, or even as a light main course.
Your summer essentials
Here’s how to build a balanced, summery French charcuterie board using products you can order directly from Mon Panier Latin:
1. The Charcuterie (of course!)
Start with high-quality cured meats. We recommend:
• Saucisson sec nature or with herbs
• Duck rillettes (Rillettes de Canard)
• Terrine de campagne or pâté de foie
• Mini rosette or chorizo tranches
Slice thinly and arrange in rolls or folds for visual appeal.
2. The Cheeses
A proper French board isn’t complete without cheese. Add soft and hard options:
• Brie or Camembert (let it reach room temperature)
• Comté or Tomme slices
• Goat’s cheese for a creamy, tangy touch
Tip: Use small ramekins or wooden boards to separate textures.
3. Fresh Touches: Fruits & Veg
Summer means colour and freshness:
• Grapes, figs, slices of melon or nectarines
• Cornichons (tiny French pickles)
• Cherry tomatoes or radishes for crunch
Drizzle with a touch of honey for balance.
4. Bread & Biscuits
For the perfect base:
• Sliced baguette (slightly toasted)
• Pasquier toasts or mini brioches
• Salted crackers or artisan crispbreads
5. Spreads & Extras
Add layers of flavour:
• Dijon mustard or fig jam
• Tapenade or olive spread
• Butter curls or cream cheese with herbs
6. The Drinks
Don’t forget a good apéritif:
• A chilled rosé from Provence
• Sparkling water with a lemon twist
• Or your favourite French soft drink (Oasis, anyone?)
Styling Tips for a Summer Table
• Use a wooden cutting board or a marble platter
• Add rosemary sprigs or edible flowers for a summer look
• Serve under the shade with napkins, toothpicks, and wine glasses
Why it works
It’s low-effort, visually beautiful, and endlessly customisable. Whether you’re hosting or bringing something to a party, a French-style charcuterie board is always a hit – and with Mon Panier Latin, you don’t need to fly to Paris to find the real flavours.
Ready to build your board?
Explore our full Charcuterie and Cheese sections online and get everything delivered to your door – fast, fresh and French.
Bon appétit 🇫🇷
