The holidays are the perfect time to gather friends and family, but hosting can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between shopping, prep, and creating a festive spread that looks as good as it tastes, it’s easy to stress. That’s where Giant Eagle’s Market District stores come in.
They make it effortless to put together a beautiful holiday charcuterie board, all while supporting some small and local producers. From artisanal cheeses to cured meats, fresh fruits, and pantry essentials, everything you need is in one convenient location.
Choose Your Cheeses
Cheese is the heart of any charcuterie board. To create a well-rounded selection, mix textures and flavors. Include a soft, creamy option, a tangy cheese, and a firm, bold cheese.
Not only does this provide variety for your guests’ palates, but it also creates visual appeal. Tip: Slice firm cheeses and leave softer options whole or in wedges for easy serving.
- Soft and creamy: Brie from a local creamery
- Tangy: Goat cheese log
- Firm and bold: Aged cheddar or smoked Gouda
Add Cured Meats
Cured meats add both flavor and texture, and Giant Eagle partners with local producers to bring high-quality options to your holiday board.
Prosciutto and Genoa salami are classic choices, while soppressata or capocollo can add a little spice and extra visual interest. Folding or rolling the slices will give your board a polished, elevated look.
- Prosciutto
- Genoa salami
- Optional: Soppressata or capacollo
Fresh Fruit and Savory Extras
Balancing the rich cheeses and meats with fresh produce and flavorful extras keeps your board vibrant and festive.
Grapes and pears are easy to arrange and pair beautifully with cheeses, while roasted nuts add crunch. A small jar of fig jam or local honey provides a sweet contrast, and olives or pickles bring a savory, briny element to each bite.
- Grapes and pears
- Roasted nuts
- Fig jam or honey
- Olives or pickles
Bread and Crackers
A variety of breads and crackers ensures your guests can build the perfect bite every time. Crusty baguette slices complement soft cheeses, while water crackers are ideal for firmer varieties. Offering both types also adds dimension to your board and keeps it visually interesting.
- Crusty baguette slices
- Plain water crackers
- Mini toasts
Wine Pairing Made Simple
No charcuterie board is complete without the perfect drink. Giant Eagle stocks wines that pair beautifully with your board and local products, making hosting stress-free. Choose a red, white, or rosé depending on your cheese and meat selection.
- Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with cheddar and salami
- Sauvignon Blanc complements goat cheese and fresh fruit
- Rosé works with nearly everything, offering a versatile option for your guests
You can also include a craft beer or sparkling water for variety. Choosing wines that pair with your board not only enhances the flavors but elevates the entire holiday experience.
Arranging your board thoughtfully makes a big impact. Place cheeses first, then meats, followed by bowls of nuts, olives, and spreads. Fill gaps with fresh fruits and crackers for a lush, full display. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary for a festive finishing touch.
Ready to host effortlessly this holiday season? Head to Giant Eagle Market District, grab your local cheeses, meats, fresh produce, and wine, and create a charcuterie board that will wow your guests!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
