Easy Finger Foods for Christmas Party | Charcuterie Appetizer

If you like the sound of creating a whole charcuterie table dressed to impress your holiday guests, then keep reading or watch the video below to see the 4 easy steps and to see what key items you will need.

// step 1 – clean it up

Let’s just get right into this tutorial with the first step, which is so important when guests are going to be eyeing your table, and that is to give that table a good cleaning. I also removed all the chairs from around the table, so that the food could be accessed from any angle of my round dinette table.

Oh and just a reminder, before you start placing the food, make sure to wash your hands, because well…it’s kind of hard to avoid using your hands when you’re putting this charcuterie table together and you want to make sure your guests have some clean, non-germy food, right?

// step 2 – the base layer

I like to think of my table designs as having layers. The first layer will be a tablecloth or table runner, and then all the plates and trays you will be using. I like to grab a bunch of stuff and have it handy, so I can play around with what works best for the setup. I’m using my dinette area, but another good spot for a charcuterie display would be on your kitchen island.

how to start a tablescape

I got this cheese board as a gift for Christmas last year. It is the perfect size to be the centerpiece of this display. It even came with some tiny chalkboard signs, so you can label your cheeses. I have even used them as place cards on my dining room tablescapes. I also grabbed some wood chargers and other items to put this table together.

// step 3 – the food

Depending on your guests, you could always have a meat and dairy free station – here are plenty of options out there to customize your charcuterie display. I happen to love meat and bring on the cheese, so that’s what I’ll be using. 

These little rolled panino salamis are so good. They also make them with prosciutto. They make a really elegant display and are easy to pick up and eat with your fingers.

panino salami

This garlic and herb cheese always gets eaten up by guests. It is great to have some sort of spreadable cheese option to go on the crackers.

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Another must have is some fruits. You could also add some vegetables with dip if you like. This will give a few healthier options and cater to those who don’t eat meat or cheese.

how to make a charcuterie board

Anyone else getting hungry while looking at these yummy photos?!

I added some sliced french bread. And then made sure to remember to put out all the right utensils for cutting the bread and cheese. I dressed up the empty spots on this bread plate with a few blueberries.

how to put together a charcuterie board

A few crackers and you are pretty much good to go with the food. And now on to the finishing touches.


// step 4 – the finishing touches

I added a few candles and other holiday decor to dress up the table. I made sure not to place anything in spots that would get in the way as guests were reaching for their food. We don’t want any candle accidents at our dinner party! I also added the basics such as plates, napkins and toothpicks.

how to set up a charcuterie table for guests

// the finished charcuterie table

If you want more holiday decorating ideas, click here to see a gorgeous neutral farmhouse tablescape for your dining room table. Lots of Target finds in that one.

diy charcuterie board
charcuterie diy
how to set up a charcuterie table

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