What appetizer board may include cheese, cured meats, crackers, pickles, and olives?

An appetizer board that may include cheese, cured meats, crackers, pickles, and olives is a charcuterie board.

The word charcuterie comes from French culinary tradition and refers more narrowly to prepared or preserved meats, such as salami, ham, and pâté. In North America, “charcuterie board” usually describes a broader presentation that combines cured meats with cheeses, crackers or bread, olives, pickled vegetables, fruit, nuts, and spreads.

The board is typically served cold on wood, slate, or marble and is designed for sharing. Good arrangements balance contrasting textures and flavors: firm and soft cheeses, salty meats, sweet fruit or preserves, tangy pickles, and spicy or savory mustards. The format works especially well as a Thanksgiving appetizer because it can be assembled ahead of the main meal.

A common terminology mix-up is calling every arranged snack platter charcuterie. A board containing mostly cheese may be better described as a cheese board, while an assortment without cured meats may simply be an appetizer platter. Taco bars, sushi platters, and dessert trays are different types of spread.