Pin A festive and visually stunning charcuterie board designed to resemble a wheat field and turkey featuring an array of artisanal cheeses cured meats crackers fresh fruits and nuts perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings
I have enjoyed serving this board at multiple holiday gatherings and guests always appreciate the creative wheat field and turkey design
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 150 g sharp cheddar cheese sliced 150 g Swiss cheese sliced 150 g creamy brie sliced or in wedges 100 g gouda cubed
- Cured Meats: 100 g prosciutto 100 g salami sliced 100 g smoked turkey breast sliced
- Crackers & Bread: 150 g whole wheat crackers 150 g multigrain crackers 1 small baguette sliced
- Fresh Fruits: 1 small bunch of green grapes 1 small bunch of red grapes 1 pear sliced 1 apple sliced 1/2 cup dried apricots 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- Nuts & Garnishes: 1/2 cup roasted almonds 1/2 cup shelled pistachios Fresh rosemary sprigs 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- For Decoration: 1 mini pumpkin or gourd (for the turkeys body) Pretzel sticks (for wheat stalks and turkey feathers) 2 black olives (for turkeys eyes) 1 small piece of red bell pepper (for wattle) 1 small triangle of yellow cheese (for beak)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place the mini pumpkin or gourd at the bottom center of a large wooden board to represent the turkeys body
- Step 2:
- Arrange sliced meats fan-like above the pumpkin to mimic the turkeys tail feathers Alternate colors and textures for a vibrant effect
- Step 3:
- Layer assorted cheeses in arcs radiating out from the turkey body resembling a wheat fields rows
- Step 4:
- Arrange crackers and baguette slices in lines or curves to evoke wheat stalks
- Step 5:
- Place clusters of grapes apple and pear slices and dried fruits artfully around the cheeses and meats
- Step 6:
- Fill gaps with nuts pumpkin seeds and fresh rosemary sprigs
- Step 7:
- Use pretzel sticks to create additional wheat stalk effects at the edges and among cheese and fruit
- Step 8:
- Assemble the turkeys face attach black olives (eyes) the red bell pepper (wattle) and yellow cheese (beak) to the front of the pumpkin/gourd using toothpicks if needed
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve
Pin This board has become a centerpiece during our family Thanksgivings and never fails to spark conversation and compliments
Notes
Substitute cheeses and meats based on availability or dietary preferences Add honey fig jam or whole-grain mustard for dipping For a vegetarian version omit meats and add extra vegetables or plant-based deli slices Pair with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling cider
Required Tools
Large wooden or slate serving board Small paring knife Cheese knife Toothpicks (for assembly) Small bowls (for nuts or dips)
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cheese) Wheat (crackers bread) Tree nuts (almonds pistachios) Soy (possible in some cured meats) May contain Sulfites (dried fruits cured meats) Double-check all labels for allergens if serving guests with sensitivities
Pin This turkey board not only tastes delicious but also brings a festive touch and fun to your Thanksgiving table
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I substitute the cured meats?
Consider plant-based deli slices or omit meats for a vegetarian-friendly board without losing texture variety.
- → What cheeses work best for layering?
Sharp cheddar, Swiss, creamy brie, and gouda provide a balance of flavors and textures suitable for visual appeal and taste.
- → How to keep the arrangement fresh longer?
Cover the board tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving to maintain freshness and prevent drying.
- → Can I prepare this board in advance?
Most components can be prepped ahead, but assemble the decorative elements shortly before serving for optimal presentation.
- → What beverages complement this board?
Light white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling cider pair well with the assortment's flavors.