6 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, sliced or cubed
4 ounces goat cheese log, rolled in crushed cranberries or herbs
6 ounces turkey salami, thinly sliced and folded
6 ounces beef bresaola or smoked turkey breast slices
1 cup red grapes, kept in small clusters
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds or fresh cranberries for garnish
1/2 cup dried apricots or figs
1/2 cup walnuts or roasted almonds
1 box assorted crackers, including water crackers and multigrain options
1 small jar honey or fig jam
Fresh rosemary sprigs and thyme for decoration
Instructions
Start by choosing a large wooden board or a flat marble slab as your base. Place the Brie wheel, the cheddar cubes, and the goat cheese log in different areas of the board, forming a triangular pattern. Placing the cheese first is important because these are the largest items and will act as the anchors for your entire arrangement.
Take your turkey salami and fold each slice into quarters or small fans to create texture and height. Nest the folded turkey salami and the beef bresaola near the cheeses. I like to tuck the meat tightly against the cheese to keep the slices from unfolding and to create a lush, overflowing appearance.
Fan out your assorted crackers in various sections of the board. I find it looks best when you follow the curves of the cheese or create a winding path of crackers across the center. Having different shapes and textures of crackers adds visual interest and ensures there is a sturdy base for every type of topping.
Fill in the remaining empty spaces with clusters of red grapes, dried apricots, and walnuts. This is where you can really build the festive look by using the natural colors of the food. Be sure to nestle the small items into the crevices so the board looks completely full and abundant.
Place your small jar of honey or fig jam on the board with a small serving spoon. Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the goat cheese and across the board for pops of bright red color. Finally, tuck fresh rosemary sprigs around the edges to mimic the look of a Christmas wreath and provide a wonderful evergreen aroma.
