01/13/2026
We wanted to share with you how eating a meal seated around a charcuterie board is such a great way to encourage fellowship and friendship. Last weekend our “Florida family” attended a wonderful Christmas Fest presentation at our church, First Assembly Fort Myers, FL (FAMFM.com). After the amazing show, we headed over to our house and shared a lovely charcuterie board put together by the combined efforts of the guests.
The holiday season can often feel rushed and stressful with kids’ events, church events, work parties, Christmas card sending, cookie baking, gift shopping/wrapping…and the list continues. Parents especially find themselves eating on the go, not getting enough sleep, and rushing through gatherings and not even tasting, let alone enjoying the food or the people!
The charcuterie board slows things down a bit, inviting us to gather, graze, and connect with each other without the pressure of “the perfect meal.” Guests can choose what they like and eat at their own pace and focus on conversation that feels more relaxed and welcoming. We find that kids really enjoy the “board experience” too because they can choose their favorites.
Last weekend’s experience allowed us to talk about the true meaning of Christmas amazingly displayed at Christmas Fest. We each shared what song we liked best and why. The show presented the journey of Mary and Joseph, the birth of baby Jesus, and the reactions of the shepherds and wisemen, with Christmas songs that tied to the actual events. We all felt like “we were there” with Mary and Joseph!
Our board came together with a mix of warm comfort foods, fresh veggies, and fruits, and make ahead items perfect for hosting without the stress. Our warm “mains” included a small ham which we heated in the crock pot while we were out, Italian meatballs with marinara kept warm and ready to serve, and Filipino lumpia (eggrolls) with simple chili sauce for dipping. Then we added your more classic charcuterie staples – salami, cheeses, olives and pickles, fresh fruit, and roasted veggies (made ahead of time), and garlic bread for dipping in our favorite roasted cherry tomato and cheese dip and deconstructed bacon-wrapped date dip (new fav!), along with Portobello stuffed mushrooms.
We have to say, this was one of the most enjoyable, relaxed Christmas parties we have hosted – for both us and the guests!
Give it a try!
We are thinking next year’s Thanksgiving might need to appear on a board! LOL
PS: For dessert we kept it simple with a variety of homemade and store-purchased sweet treats, including Marion’s mom’s recipe for cut-out cookies made gluten and sugar free with natural food colored icing.
Holiday mocktail: equal parts cranberry juice, lime juice, apple cider or sparkling cider, and your favorite sparkling water. Float few cranberries on top and serve with lime wedge.
Recipe for deconstructed bacon wrapped dates: Spread Boursin cheese on the bottom of the dish, top with chopped dates and crispy bacon pieces, drizzle with hot honey and serve with your favorite dippers. Guaranteed to disappear fast!