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    Home » Recipes » Charcuterie » Grazing Table (Easy & Delicious!)

    Grazing Table (Easy & Delicious!)

    March 31, 2022 By Chandice | 14 Comments | Updated November 21, 2022

    this post may contain affiliate links

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    Grazing Table pin

    Grazing tables are perfect for any and every event since they include a bit of something for everyone. They are super simple to put together and absolutely delicious.

    Charcuterie boards are tasty and perfect for any season. They are a crowd favorite and also super easy. This is definitely a recipe you need to use for your next event.

    Charcuterie Table on butcher paper

    I don’t know about you, but I often struggle to find the perfect appetizers for when I throw events. Everyone has their own preferences and allergies, so it is hard to find something that is just right.

    Luckily, charcuterie boards are perfect for every event. Bridal showers, birthday parties, baby showers, you name it! You can even use them for a Halloween party (I have a post about this: Halloween Charcuterie Board: CharBOOterie) or a summer charcuterie board.

    Charcuterie boards have many uses and can even be made into individual charcuterie boxes or charcuterie cones. They are visually appealing, tasty, and perfect for a gathering area.

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    I always love to make a Super Bowl Charcuterie Board because it is easy and a great appetizer to snack on while watching the game. Another thing I love about charcuterie boards is that they are perfect for any season.

    You can use seasonal fruits to change up the spread and visual interest depending on the season. For example, check out my Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board and my Christmas Charcuterie Board or CharcuterWREATH recipes.

    Girls around a grazing table

    What is another name for a grazing table?

    If you have not heard of a grazing table, you may have heard of a charcuterie board. They are the same thing, both containing a beautiful spread, bread sticks, artisan cheeses, and other yummy finger food.

    Grazing tables or charcuterie boards are perfect for cocktail hours, a corporate event, and even wedding receptions. They are an impressive way to create a delicious appetizer and a visual interest for the table.

    You can even go the breakfast route by turning our pancake charcuterie board in a brunch grazing table.

    What is the difference between a buffet and a grazing table?

    Buffets are usually made with hot pans and can be considered more of a meal, compared with a grazing table that is meant more for snacking and the social side of eating.

    Grazing tables can be adjusted to any type of event, whereas buffets are more casual. You can make a grazing table look picture perfect for your social media page, unlike buffets which are not as aesthetically pleasing.

    One great way to upgrade your grazing table is using alternative surface options, such as your counter tops or cake stands rather than a wooden board.

    Grazing Table on butcher paper

    What should be on a grazing table?

    Something I love about a good grazing table is the versatility. I have used grazing tables for intimate gatherings, using my Small Charcuterie Board recipe and Valentine’s parties (Valentines Charcuterie Board).

    I’ve even used them for wedding receptions, using my wedding Charcuterie Table recipe. Grazing tables are the perfect way to elevate an event.

    Cheese

    Cheeses are a staple when it comes to charcuterie boards. Having multiple types of cheeses will make for the ultimate cheese board.

    Some of my favorite cheeses to use are chunks of parmesan, swiss, and brie. Having gourmet cheese selections will create the best grazing table.

    Cured Meats

    Meat is another stable in a tasty grazing table. Meats like prosciutto, genoa salami, sopressata, and sliced pepperoni are common.

    You can always omit cured meats from your charcuterie board for a vegetarian option. Or use meat substitutes.

    Fresh Veggies

    Local fresh fruits and veggies are a fun way to change up your grazing table. Each season provides fresh veggies that add a pop of color into the table look.

    Some common veggies you will see on a grazing table are carrots, snap peas, mini peppers, olives, and tomatoes.

    Fillers

    Fillers are the things you put all of the yummy cheeses and meats on. This could be crackers, pretzels, thin slices of bread, or whatever you prefer.

    It’s always fun to have a variety of fillers for visual appeal and taste. These can be both sweet and savory.

    Pro Tip: Add some fresh flowers to your grazing table to take your spread to the next level.

    Grazing Table on butcher paper

    How do you make a cheap grazing table?

    Meats and cheeses can be expensive, so for a cheaper grazing table, go with more fillers, such as cheap crackers, breads, and inexpensive fruits. Apricots and figs are yummy on a charcuterie board and will not break the bank.

    Dried fruits are also a good option. Costco makes it so much easier to buy everything in bulk.

    From cheese and cured meats to crackers, olives, fruit and veggies. They even have cute chocolates in bulk!

    How to make a grazing table

    • Step 1: Clean off the counter space you will be using and roll out butcher paper then place large trays out
    • Step 2: Place large items like baguettes, rolls, and cheese wheels on the table
    • Step 3: Add dips and small fruits to small bowls and place the small bowls around the table wherever you see fit
    Grazing Table on butcher paper
    • Step 4: Add the cured meats, crackers, fruits and veggies (I love adding olives to this board!)
    • Step 5: Add all the yummy treats! Charcuterie board cookies, chocolate covered strawberries, cake, etc. are perfect here
    • Step 6: Finish by adding in the green herbs to give it a live, effervescent look

    Pro Tip: The cups are especially great for berries, olives and anything with “juices” so they don’t get your other board ingredients soggy

    What is the difference between a grazing table and charcuterie board?

    Grazing tables are more diverse and include lots more sweets than a traditional meat and cheese charcuterie board. There is a variety of flavors in a grazing table, such as salty, sweet, bitter, and sour, unlike a charcuterie board that typically has salty and sometimes sweet.

    Here are a few things that are great on a grazing board:

    • Jams or jellies
    • Pickled vegetables
    • Candied nuts
    • Sweet treats (such as chocolates, tarts, or mini pastries

    Can you make it gluten-free?

    Absolutely! Simply using gluten-free crackers and pretzels will make this board gluten-free. Just check all ingredients when making your gluten-free charcuterie board.

    Get our free charcuterie board shopping list printable HERE

    Charcuterie Board Shopping List (Printable Included)

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    Grazing Table (Easy & Delicious!)

    Grazing Table on butcher paper
    5 from 15 votes
    A grazing table is the perfect meal for any and every event. They include a bit of something for everyone and are super simple to put together!
    PRINT RECIPE SAVE RECIPESaved!
    Prep Time: 30 mins
    Total Time: 30 mins
    Course: Appetizer
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: board, charcuterie, grazing
    Servings: 50 people
    Calories: 671kcal

    Ingredients

    • 72 ounces Cheese in varied flavors and sizes 
    • 72 ounces Cured meats
    • 48 ounces Crackers (we do gluten-free)
    • 48 ounces Pretzels (gluten-free for us)
    • 48 ounces Fresh berries
    • 48 ounces Fresh veggies, cut up
    • 24 ounces Chocolates
    • 6 small jars Sweet dips and savory if you like
    • 4 cups Olives
    • Fresh greenery for esthetic 

    Instructions

    • Step 1: Clean off the counter space you will be using and roll out butcher paper then place large trays out
    • Step 2: Place large items like baguettes, rolls, and cheese wheels on the table 
    • Step 3: Add dips and small fruits to small bowls and place the small bowls around the table wherever you see fit
    • Step 4: Add the cured meats, crackers, fruits and veggies (I love adding olives to this board!)
    • Step 5: Add all the yummy treats! Charcuterie board cookies, chocolate covered strawberries, cake, etc. are perfect here
    • Step 6: Finish by adding in the green herbs to give it a live, effervescent look

    Video

    Notes

    Pro Tip: Add some fresh flowers to your grazing table to take your spread to the next level.
    Pro Tip: If you want less clean up mess, add some wax paper to the board first
    Pro Tip:The cups are especially great for berries, olives and anything with “juices” so they don’t get your other board ingredients soggy
    It is best to put all items that need refrigeration such as cheeses, meats and dips into containers. They can then be refrigerated until you want to enjoy them again.
    Crackers, fruits, cookies and non-refrigerated items can also be placed in containers and bags and store at room temperature.
    This grazing table can absolutely be made dairy-free. Just choose dairy-free cheeses and dips or leave them off entirely.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 671kcal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 1964mg | Potassium: 404mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 5007IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 329mg | Iron: 3mg

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    Filed Under: Appetizers, Charcuterie, Featured Tagged With: grazing table

    Chandice of This Vivacious Life

    Hi, I'm Chandice!

    Parties, gatherings, gorgeous food and ESPECIALLY holidays with my people are what make my heart pitter patter. Having a place to share our favorite traditions, recipes and celebrations is very important to me. I live each day with unapologetic, authentic happiness and hope to help others do the same. More About Chandice

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Jess says

      April 07, 2022 at 12:03 pm

      5 stars
      Oh. My. Gosh. This looks SOOOO good! I always feel overwhelmed when I try to make grazing boards, never mind a grazing table. Thanks for breaking it down so well! This came in handy!

      Reply
    2. Silvia says

      April 04, 2022 at 6:55 pm

      5 stars
      Your guide is right on the money! Grazing tables are my favorite go-to for my parties. I love how versatile they are and how they can feed different people with different preferences.

      Reply
      • Chandice says

        April 05, 2022 at 4:08 am

        Thanks Silvia, glad you enjoyed it too…

        Reply
      • JD says

        May 06, 2022 at 12:48 pm

        5 stars
        I love the idea of these, but they always feel intimidating to make. After trying this, I know I can handle it. Thanks for sharing!

        Reply
    3. Moop Brown says

      April 04, 2022 at 6:41 am

      I don’t think I’ve ever made a grazing table before now but this makes it seem so easy and perfect for parties and large gatherings.

      Reply
    4. Nicoletta says

      April 04, 2022 at 5:55 am

      5 stars
      This is a fabulous grazing table! Love how it is customizable and allows you to add to meats, breads, cheeses, etc, also seasonal fruits.

      Reply
    5. Jenny says

      April 04, 2022 at 5:43 am

      5 stars
      This is a great guide. Have always wanted to make a grazing board as a “wow appetizer for a dinner party. Well, your post is so informative and knowledgeable, I actually followed your advice and made a table grazing board for a gathering this Saturday. Thank you for all the great info!

      Reply
    6. Tracy says

      April 04, 2022 at 3:28 am

      5 stars
      This is so so so fun. I loved this for a party and so did all of our friends! Great tips!

      Reply
    7. Sandhya Ramakrishnan says

      April 04, 2022 at 1:15 am

      5 stars
      What a wonderful post this and so informative. I have always wanted to make something similar for my parties but had a fear. I am now confident after planning and making this!

      Reply
    8. Aya says

      April 03, 2022 at 7:25 pm

      5 stars
      Seeing this post makes me want to host a gathering just to make a grazing table. The pictures are beautiful and thank you for all the awesome tips.

      Reply
    9. Debbie says

      April 03, 2022 at 2:55 pm

      5 stars
      I love this detailed explanation of how to make a grazing table. This was perfect for an upcoming party I hosted, thanks for this .

      Reply
    10. veenaazmanov says

      April 01, 2022 at 1:33 pm

      5 stars
      This is a real feast. Everything looks so tempting and inviting. Friends and family to enjoy all of it for sure. This is so creative.

      Reply
    11. Allyssa says

      April 01, 2022 at 9:40 am

      5 stars
      Thank you so much for sharing this amazing recipe! Will surely have this again! It’s really easy to make and it tasted so delicious! Highly recommended!

      Reply
    12. Allison says

      March 31, 2022 at 6:08 pm

      5 stars
      Yum!! I’ve never done a grazing table before, so I was excited to try it out! I’ve always been nervous about making one, but this post broke it down well! Thank you 🙂

      Reply

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    Chandice of This Vivacious Life

    Hi there, I’m Chandice!

    I love sharing ways to live more vivaciously! Celebrate life with us through unforgettable gluten-free recipes, easy mocktails and everyday entertaining ideas…

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