Mediterranean Inspired Charcuterie Platter

Name: Mediterranean Inspired Charcuterie Platter
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: Feta cheese; Bocconcini (small mozzarella balls); Aged Manchego; Prosciutto; Salami; Chorizo; Cherry tomatoes; Cucumber slices; Bell pepper strips; Fresh figs; Kalamata olives; Hummus; Tzatziki; Olive tapenade; Crostini; Pita chips; Assorted crackers

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love assembling a Mediterranean Inspired Charcuterie Platter as it’s not only visually stunning but also packs a punch of delightful flavors. Each component—from creamy feta cheese to marinated olives—brings a unique touch to the table. I enjoy mixing and matching fresh vegetables, artisan breads, and cured meats, creating something that encourages sharing and conversation among friends and family. This platter is perfect as an appetizer or a fun addition to any gathering, allowing everyone to indulge in the Mediterranean spirit deliciously and casually.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T17:06:28.166Z

When I put together this Mediterranean Inspired Charcuterie Platter, I always find that it reflects not just my love for fresh ingredients, but also unique pairings. For instance, pairing sweet figs with tangy goat cheese creates an event of flavors that is simply irresistible. I also include a variety of dips, such as hummus and tzatziki, which add depth and richness to every bite.

One of my favorite tips is to ensure a balance of textures and colors for visual appeal. Using vibrant vegetables like cherry tomatoes and bell pepper strips alongside creamy and crunchy elements keeps everyone coming back for more. The unpredictability in every bite makes this platter a true exploration of flavors!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A vibrant mix of flavors and textures that invites conversation
Perfect for any gathering, be it casual or festive
Artfully arranged, it doubles as a stunning centerpiece

      

The Art of Arrangement

When creating your Mediterranean Inspired Charcuterie Platter, the arrangement plays a crucial role in achieving a visually appealing display. Start by placing larger components such as the cheeses and cured meats first. I find it helpful to create sections on the board, which helps the eyes navigate the platter. For example, clustering the feta and aged Manchego together can create a wonderful contrast with the deep hues of the olives and vibrant tomatoes.

Gradually fill spaces with smaller items, such as cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices. Don't overcrowd the board; instead, allow each ingredient the space to stand out. A good rule of thumb is to leave small gaps between each group of ingredients, ensuring that the viewer's gaze flows naturally across the platter. This approach encourages exploration and invites your guests to create their ideal bite.

Choosing the Right Accompaniments

The dips and spreads are essential components that amplify the flavors of the overall platter. When choosing dips, opt for those with contrasting textures to complement the cheeses and meats. Hummus offers a creamy consistency, while tzatziki brings a refreshing, tangy taste, enhancing your dining experience. If you want to mix things up, consider a roasted red pepper dip or a spicy harissa for an exciting twist.

For the breads and crackers, variety is key. Include crostini for a crunchy base that holds heavier toppings, spark your guests' curiosity with pita chips, and present a selection of assorted crackers. I recommend choosing some with seeds or herbs to introduce additional flavor dimensions. This mix allows guests to customize their bites according to their personal preferences.

Ingredients

Cheeses

Feta cheese
Bocconcini (small mozzarella balls)
Aged Manchego

Cured Meats

Prosciutto
Salami
Chorizo

Vegetables & Fruits

Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber slices
Bell pepper strips
Fresh figs
Kalamata olives

Dips & Spreads

Hummus
Tzatziki
Olive tapenade

Breads & Crackers

Crostini
Pita chips
Assorted crackers

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preference!

Instructions

Arrange Ingredients

Start by placing the larger items like cheeses and meats on a large wooden board or platter. Space them out to create a balanced look.

Add Vegetables and Fruits

Fill in the gaps with vibrant vegetables and fruits, ensuring a variety of colors and textures to make the platter visually appealing.

Include Dips and Spreads

Spoon dips like hummus and tzatziki into small bowls and position them around the board for easy serving.

Finish With Breads and Crackers

Finally, add an assortment of crostini, pita chips, and crackers for delightful pairing options with the cheeses and dips.

Serve immediately and watch it disappear!

Pro Tips

Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients based on what's in season. Seasoned nuts or dried fruits can add an interesting twist to your platter.

Ingredient Substitutions

While the ingredients in the Mediterranean Inspired Charcuterie Platter are specific, there’s room for creativity. For example, if feta cheese is unavailable, try using goat cheese for a similarly tangy kick, or even ricotta for a milder taste. In terms of cured meats, feel free to substitute with spicy soppressata or smoked turkey for a lighter option. The key is to maintain a balance of flavors—if you swap out a salty cured meat, consider adding a slightly sweet fruit item, like a dried apricot, to counterbalance.

For those looking for a vegan option, replace the cheeses with a nut-based cheese or tofu spread, and swap the cured meats for marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, or even tempeh. This maintains the spirit of the platter while accommodating dietary preferences. Make sure to use fresh vegetables and a variety of dips to keep the vibrancy intact.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing the platter in advance, keep components separated until just before serving. This prevents moisture from the dips or fruits from affecting the crispness of the crackers. Store sliced vegetables in airtight containers to preserve their freshness, and keep olives and marinated items in small jars, drizzled with their oils to seal in flavors. Most meats can be pre-assembled, but hold off on adding crunchy elements until the last moment.

For leftovers, store components separately in the fridge. Most cheeses can last a few days, while cured meats may hold up for up to a week. Be mindful of dips—check for freshness and discard anything that seems off. Reassemble into your board format for a quick snack later in the week, ensuring to balance flavors and textures as before.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this platter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the elements a few hours in advance. Keep the fruits and dips refrigerated until ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for the cheeses?

You can use any soft or hard cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or goat cheese.

→ How do I make sure everything stays fresh?

Keep dips chilled until serving, and use fresh vegetables to prevent wilting.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, simply omit the cured meats and add more vegetable options or other plant-based proteins.