A breakfast charcuterie board is a fun way to make hosting easy while incorporating the perfect mix of protein, carbs, and freshness. Hard-boiled eggs and bagels are the stars of this board, while the toppings and sides add fun and freshness.

Spring is the perfect time to gather with friends and family, and what better way to do this than over a hearty breakfast charcuterie board?

WHAT IS A BREAKFAST CHARCUTERIE BOARD?

Brunch boards are typically arranged on a large serving platter, making them a visually appealing and inviting way to serve brunch to guests.

WHY I LOVE BRUNCH BOARDS

Customizable: Brunch boards are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, vegetarian or meat-filled, there are endless options to choose from when creating a brunch board. Plus they can be easily customized to fit any theme or occasion.

Conversation Starter: Brunch boards are perfect for socializing with friends and family gathered around. They provide a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal together, and guests can pick and choose their favorite items from the board.

Visually Appealing: Brunch boards make a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering. The mix of colors, ingredients, and textures creates an eye-catching display that’s sure to impress guests.

WHY HARD-BOILED EGGS AND BAGELS ARE THE STARS

Hard-boiled eggs are a great source of protein, which helps you feel full and satisfied. They’re also easy to prepare ahead of time.

Bagels, on the other hand, are a delicious source of carbs that can provide the energy you need to start your day off on the right foot. Plus they can be paired with a variety of toppings.

INGREDIENTS

When creating your board, it’s important to focus on incorporating a mix of proteins, carbs, and fresh ingredients. Here are some ideas to get you started:

PROTEIN
Hard-boiled eggs, peeled
Smoked salmon
White fish spread

CARBS
Bagels (some of my favorites include: everything, sesame, plain, egg, cinnamon raisin, asiago, and pumpernickel)

FRESH FIXINGS & SIDES
Cucumbers
Red onion
Tomatoes
Microgreens
Radishes
Watermelon radish
Schmear (aka whipped cream cheese)
Grapes
Olives
Capers

TOOLS, SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT

Large serving platter or cutting board
Plates
Utensils

HOW TO BUILD A BREAKFAST BOARD

Step 1: Choose Your Board. Start by selecting a board or platter that is large enough to accommodate all of your brunch items. A wooden board or slate platter work well for a rustic and natural look, while a white porcelain platter can give a more elegant and modern vibe.

Step 2: Select Ingredients to Feature. Choose a mix of sweet and savory items for your brunch board.

Step 3: Group Items Into Sections. For example, place all of the bread and eggs together.

Step 4: Add Some Freshness and Color. Use a mix of fresh and colorful items to add visual interest to your board. This could include grapes, fresh berries, microgreens, or vibrant veggies.

Step 5: Fill in the Gaps. Once you have arranged your items, fill in any empty spaces with small items like nuts, salsas, and garnishes.

TIPS, TRICKS, AND SUBSTITUTIONS

Make it vegetarian by simply omitting the salmon and fish.

Make it vegan by using a variety of nuts for your protein options and use a vegan cream cheese like the brand Kite Hill.

Replace the hard-boiled eggs with deviled eggs such as my Chipotle Deviled Eggs.

When building your board, place the largest items on the board first. Then, fill in the remaining areas with the smaller items. You can even use fresh flowers to fill in some areas and to emphasize the spring theme.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if I don’t have a board or platter? A cutting board, large plate, and even a baking sheet can all be used as a charcuterie board.

Where can I buy a board or platter? You can easily find a variety of boards and platters of different sizes at stores like Target, TJ Maxx Home Goods, or Crate & Barrel.

How long can the food stay out at room temperature? You should not leave any food out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

HOW TO STORE

Leftover hard-boiled eggs, smoked salmon and white fish spread can be placed in separate air-tight containers and last in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Bagels can be placed in ziploc bags and left in the pantry for 3-4 days.

Store any leftover fruits and vegetables in separate air-tight containers. Any sliced produce will last between 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

THIS PROTEIN BRUNCH BOARD WOULD BE PERFECT FOR:

Spring gatherings
Mother’s Day
Father’s Day
Girls’ Night
Baby or Bridal Shower

WHAT PAIRS WELL WITH BREAKFAST BOARDS?

Round out your brunch with a few different drink choices. Water, tea and coffee with a few creamer options are always a good idea.

Another fitting choice is a big pitcher of a refreshing agua fresca, such as:
Agua Fresca de Melón
Blood Orange Agua Fresca
Pineapple-Cucumber Agua Fresca with Fresh Mint

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