20 Simple Options For Your Next Fruit Charcuterie Board

In recent years, charcuterie boards have become popular as a pre-dinner snack and a way to entertain pub crawlers and house guests. In many circumstances, you can even find a cheese and fruit charcuterie board served as a main course. 

In addition to fruits, you’ll find cured meats, cheeses, pieces of bread, and crackers on the platter. Here are a few fruit options to add some flavor and color to your next board.

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Tostitos Scoops Tortilla Chips

Muir Glen USDA Certified Organic Medium Salsa

Lay's Classic Mix Variety Pack

Mott's Fruit Snacks, Assorted

Mrs. Fields Cookies, Rainbow Chocolate Chip

Nature Valley Trail Mix Bars, Chewy, Fruit & Nut

Wheat Thins Snacks, Sundried Tomato & Basil

Fisher Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts

Cheez-It Baked Snack Crackers, Original

Fresh Bananas

1. Apples

This crisp and sweet fall fruit pairs well with cheddar cheese for a classic combination. Cut the apple into thin slices or small wedges and remove the seeds and stem.

2. Grapes

Grapes are an awesome palate cleanser between different meats and cheeses. Whether you choose green, purple, red, or yellow grapes, leave them whole or cut them in half, and remove the stem and any seeds.

3. Strawberries

This sweet and juicy spring fruit can be an awesome pairing with brie cheese and a balsamic glaze. Remove the stem and leaves and cut them in half.

4. Raspberries

The tart and tangy fruit can be good on its own or with cream cheese. Leave them whole or gently crush them with a fork for a spreadable consistency.

5. Papaya

At its peak ripeness, this tropical fruit is full of sweetness. Cut off the top and bottom, slice off the skin, remove the seeds, and cut into cubes or wedges. Pair it with feta or gorgonzola cheese for a powerful combination.

6. Blackberries

Blackberries can be similar to raspberries, where you can either leave them whole or gently crush them. The tart fruit can go well with a cracker and lightly drizzled with honey mustard.

7. Pineapple

This tropical fruit can be intimidating to approach, but the payoff is worth it. Cut off the top and bottom, slice off the skin, remove the core and cut into chunks or wedges. Pair it with cured meat or even mozzarella cheese.

8. Mangoes

A summer fruit favorite, mangos can bring a powerful sweet kick to your charcuterie board. Cut off the cheeks of the mango, remove the skin, and cut it into cubes or wedges. “Wow” your guests and char the mango on the grill briefly for a smoky taste.

9. Peaches

This fruit goes extremely well with prosciutto. Cut it in half, remove the pit, and slice it into wedges or cubes.

10. Pears 

A crisp pair can be the highlight of your next charcuterie board. Cut off the top and bottom, slice off the skin, remove the core, and cut into thin slices or wedges. Serve with bleu cheese and honey.

11. Kiwi

No need to be afraid of this small fruit! Cut the top off the fruit and use a spoon to peel the skin. Slice into thin wedges.

12. Melon

Cut off the top and bottom of the melon to help the fruit not fall off the cutting board. Slice off the skin, remove the seeds and cut into cubes or wedges. Serve with sharp cheddar cheese.

13. Plums

This fruit both can be tart and sweet. Cut in half, remove the pit, and cut into thin slices or wedges. Serve with salami and mozzarella.

14. Oranges

This citrus isn’t just for soccer practice anymore. Cut off the top and bottom, slice off the skin, remove the white pith, and cut into segments. 

5. Blueberries

The small berry can be left whole or cut in half. Pairing well with brie or gouda, the blueberry is a perfect addition to a cheese and fruit charcuterie board.

16. Pomegranate

Fill a bowl with water and set it to the side. Slice off the top and bottom of the pomegranate and remove the seeds while in the bowl of water. Serve with a high-flavor cheese, such as smoked cheddar. 

17. Persimmons

Slice off the skin and cut it into thin slices or wedges. Layer the fruit on a cracker and gouda cheese.

18. Starfruit

Peel off the skin and cut it into thin slices. Eat the crisp fruit with mascarpone cheese for a savory treat. 

19. Passionfruit

When in season, this tart fruit can be a party favorite. Cut in half, scoop out the seeds and pulp, and serve alongside nuts on the board for a crunchy flavor.

20. Guava

Remove the skin and seeds, then cut the fruit into cubes or wedges. This tangy treat can then be paired with a wide variety of cheeses from cheddar to brie.

How to wash fruit before preparing a charcuterie board

Before making your simple fruit charcuterie board, make sure to wash the food properly. Here’s how you should clean any fruit you’re using:

1. Rinse the fruit under running water to remove any dirt, debris, or pesticides on the surface of the fruit.
2. Use a clean brush or cloth to scrub the fruit.
3. For fruits like berries that are more difficult to wash, place them in a strainer or colander and rinse them with cold water.
4. Gently dry all washed fruits with a paper towel.
5. After completely drying, properly store or freeze the fruit for maximum shelf life.

Make your next party a hit with a fruit-filled charcuterie board

Charcuterie boards have become a way to showcase a variety of ingredients and flavors — as well as a way to entertain. If you’re ready to dive into making a delicious charcuterie board, Instacart is here to make it happen! Our expert shoppers will help by choosing the best fruits available to make your next party a hit. 

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