The most common board mistake is buying for twenty when six people are coming. Here's the simple math.
Quantities for 6 people (as an appetizer)
- Cheese: 2–3 oz per person, so about 1 lb total. Choose 3 cheeses: one soft (brie), one aged (cheddar), one surprising (blue or herbed goat).
- Cured meat: 2 oz per person, about 12 oz total, split between two kinds.
- Crackers and bread: 1 sleeve of crackers plus half a baguette.
- Fruit: 1 bunch of grapes plus one seasonal fruit (pears or figs in winter).
- Extras: a small bowl of nuts, one jam or honey, and something briny (olives or cornichons).
If the board is dinner, double the cheese and meat.
Which board size?
- 14 × 9 in.: right for 4–6 people as an appetizer.
- 18 × 10 in.: right for 6–10 people, or when the board is the main event.
The 5-step layout
- Place the bowls first (jam, olives).
- Add the cheeses, spaced apart. Cut a few slices from each to show people how to start.
- Fold or "river" the meats between the cheeses.
- Fill the big gaps with fruit and crackers.
- Fill the small gaps with nuts and herbs. A rosemary sprig makes it look like winter.
Make-ahead tip
Prep everything in containers the day before. Assemble 30 minutes before guests arrive.
Shop the acacia serving boards. Use WELCOME15 for 15% off your first order.
Holiday gift ideas
- Host gifts under $50: easy things to bring to someone else's table.
- Stocking stuffers under $25: small gifts that are worth the drawer space.
Warmly, Mira