This post was made possible because I attended the Fresh Air Retreat in New Orleans, sponsored by the lovely folks at Raptive, Del Duca, Rainy beach crispsand La Panzanella!
Last month I was able to participate in one of the most fun events I’ve ever been to as a blogger: The Fresh Air Retreat in New Orleans! It was a small group of amazing writers and content creators who came together to share ideas and eat lots of delicious food!
One of my favorite sessions during our time in New Orleans was working on custom cheese boards! We all have to make our own and we made some good ones! I know cheese boards are a common appetizer to make in the summer so I thought I’d put together a list of seven must-haves that can help you take your cheese boards to the next level!
Check out my list and see yours too Fresh air withdrawal Summary at the bottom of the list!
#1 – A good combination of cheeses and meats
It should go without saying, but it’s always a good idea to have a great mix of cheeses and meats for your board. Mix the textures with some softer and charcuterie cheeses and some firmer ones. we used Del Duca meats which are really delicious, available in many places, and come in a variety of packages.
#2 – Try Rose Salami
A great way to maximize space on your board and also do something beautiful is to make a salami rose! Choose a firmer salami like Supersta and pile slices in a wine glass. Then flip it over on your board and it will come out as a beautiful rose.
#3 – Cheese Triangles
Sometimes it can be difficult to figure out how to best display cheese on your plate. If it’s a softer cheese, you’ll probably want to leave it mostly intact so it doesn’t melt. For firmer cheeses, I like to cut my cheese into triangles that you can stack or arrange in interesting ways and make serving easier.
#4 – Amazing crackers
You need good crackers to make a great cheese board. Many people think of crackers as a vehicle for other things on the board, but good crackers can be a highlight in their own right!
I used two different brands of crackers for my cheese board and both were amazing.
These La Panzanella crackers They are light and airy yet strong enough to really be stacked high. I like them as a good base option for any cheese board. (From stores)
Then I tried these Rainy beach crisps which I have never eaten before and I was very impressed by the different flavors. I especially liked the rosemary flavor! (From stores)
No. 5 – Various fruits (dried and fresh)
Be creative with your fruit options for your summer cheese boards and be sure to mix dried and fresh fruit. For example, if you’ve never had blue cheese and dried pineapple together, you’re missing out!
#6 – Honey and spreads
A little jam or a drizzle of honey is a great way to elevate your summer cheeseboards. Since most of the items on the board tend to be really salty, a little sweetness is a great option to balance the board.
#7 – Labels
You can buy little flags or labels pretty cheap and they are a cute way to label any cheese and meat or just write some funny messages for your guests!
Summary of my fresh air retreat
Over the course of a few days, we ate and drank our way through New Orleans, but I have to say the highlights for me were the moments at home. It was such a great group and we were really able to spend time solving problems and brainstorming (there are some changes coming to this site here!)
Here is the list of participants and you should check them out and follow them!
Elizabeth M Confessions of a baking queen
Mackenzie M My friend grilled cheese
Jordan M JZ Eats
Megan M Mother the baker
Lauren M The curious plate (Moderator!)
Liz M The lemon bowl (Moderator!)
Daniel M The salty pot
Ari M A well experienced studio
the amazing Chef Trimmel who cooked all our meals and taught me how to stuff a chicken wing with mac and cheese!
the amazing Amanda Kamppinen who took all the wonderful pictures!
It’s probably not surprising, but we ate really well!
Some of the highlights were the classic Muffoletta sandwich at Napoleon’s house and an epic multi-course meal at Iconi Commander’s Palace!
I left the retreat with some new friends and lots of new ideas!
