Ingredients:
- 1 cup (30g) buttery crackers
- 1 cup (40g) whole wheat crackers
- 1/2 cup (30g) salted pretzels
- 4 oz (113g) cubed Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 oz (113g) cubed Colby cheese
- 4 oz (113g) prosciutto or salami
- 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, halved
- 1/2 cup (80g) dried apricots
- 4 oz (113g) dark chocolate pieces
- 1/2 cup (65g) honey-roasted almonds
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fig jam
- 1/4 cup (60ml) hummus
Instructions:
- Place ramekins on the board first, positioning one in the center and two toward opposite edges. Fill these with honey, jam, and hummus to act as anchors. Note: This prevents the bowls from sliding around later.
- Arrange the cubed Monterey Jack and Colby cheeses in small clusters near the dips. Note: Keep them slightly separated for a more organic look.
- Fold the prosciutto or salami into 'S' curves, weaving them between the cheese and the bowls. Continue until you see a rhythmic flow of meat across the board.
- Tuck the buttery crackers, whole wheat crackers, and pretzels into the remaining open spaces, letting them spill slightly toward the edges. Note: Don't lay them flat; lean them against the bowls.
- Add the halved strawberries and dried apricots in small piles to create color contrast. Distribute them evenly so every guest has a strawberry within reach.
- Fill any remaining tiny holes with honey roasted almonds and dark chocolate pieces until the board is fully covered. Note: This gap filling is what makes the board look professional.
- Check the board from a distance. Ensure no large wooden gaps are visible, then add one final sprinkle of almonds if needed.