I created this Peas & Cheese Board on a whim one spring afternoon, and now it’s one of my favorite light grazing platters.
With fresh sugar snap peas, blanched green beans, crisp spring onions, and soft, spreadable cheeses, it’s crisp, creamy, and effortlessly elegant.
It celebrates all the things I love about spring—brightness, freshness, and simplicity—while being incredibly easy to throw together.
Imagine hosting a gathering where your guests are instantly captivated by a beautiful display of a Peas & Cheese Charcuterie Board.
It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that invites everyone to dig in.
This board is perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy night in with family.
Crafting a Peas & Cheese Charcuterie Board is all about balance. From the creamy cheeses to the vibrant peas, every element complements the others, creating a harmonious experience.
This recipe encourages creativity, so feel free to adjust it based on your favorite flavors or seasonal ingredients.
Here’s Why You’ll Love My Peas & Cheese Board
This board is a refreshing twist on the usual charcuterie platter. It’s veggie-forward but still indulgent thanks to soft cheeses like brie or chèvre.
The peas and green beans add crunch and sweetness, while spring onions bring just the right amount of bite.
It’s perfect for everything from garden parties to a lazy lunch on the patio—and it’s ready in 15 minutes or less.
Creating the Perfect Presentation
Setting the stage for a Peas & Cheese Charcuterie Board starts with the right choice of serving surface.
A rustic wooden table enhances the natural tones of the ingredients, inviting guests to gather around.
Choose a large wooden board or platter that offers ample space for an enticing display.
Consider the layout carefully. A well-arranged board not only looks appealing but also makes it easier for guests to serve themselves.
Mixing various textures adds depth to the presentation. Think of the smoothness of cheese juxtaposed with the crunch of crackers and the tender peas.
The Cheese Selection
Cheese plays a pivotal role in this charcuterie board. Opt for a variety of flavors and textures to please diverse palates.
Creamy brie pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar and tangy goat cheese. Each cheese brings its unique profile, creating a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the peas.
Cut some cheeses into wedges or cubes. This variety not only adds visual interest but also encourages guests to experiment with different flavor combinations.
The creamy cheeses will balance the freshness of the peas, while the sharper options provide a nice contrast.
Adding Color and Crunch
Colorful crackers and breadsticks contribute both texture and visual appeal. Choose a mix of shapes and colors to keep the board lively.
Look for whole-grain options for a nutty flavor, or colorful varieties that pop against the vibrant green peas.
Incorporate mixed nuts for an added crunch. Their varied textures can complement the other ingredients well.
Nuts like almonds and walnuts provide a satisfying bite, elevating the overall eating experience.
Brightening with Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs serve dual purposes on a Peas & Cheese Charcuterie Board. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also infuse the dish with fresh aromas and flavors.
Consider using mint or basil to create a bright and inviting atmosphere.
Scatter the herbs generously across the board, tucking them in among the cheeses and peas. This adds a layer of freshness, making every bite more delightful.
The herbs act as a garnish but also as a flavor enhancer, inviting guests to enjoy the full range of tastes.
A Touch of Sweetness
Drizzling honey or fig jam over the board introduces a lovely sweetness to further elevate the flavors.
This uniquely touches the palate, creating a beautiful balance between sweet and savory.
Place a small dish of honey or jam on the board or drizzle it directly over the ingredients. With each bite, guests can choose how much sweetness they want.
This versatility makes the board even more inviting and enjoyable.
Optional Additions for Variety
For those looking to enhance the charcuterie experience further, consider adding sliced cured meats.
Prosciutto or salami can introduce a savory element that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Arrange the meats artfully on the board, creating a contrast with the greens and the colorful cheeses.
This addition can transform the Peas & Cheese Charcuterie Board into a more substantial appetizer, perfect for gatherings.
This board pairs beautifully with crisp white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a spring herbal tea like mint or chamomile.
Tips for the Best Peas & Cheese Board
Use the freshest vegetables you can find—look for bright green sugar snap peas and slender spring onions.
Blanch the green beans for just a minute and then chill them quickly to preserve their crunch and color.
Let your soft cheeses come to room temperature before serving so they’re creamy and spreadable. Arrange the vegetables in neat clusters or fan them out for visual appeal.
Peas & Cheese Board for a Fresh Spring Charcuterie
Course: Appetizer or SnackCuisine: Seasonal AmericanDifficulty: Easy4 – 6
servings10
minutes1
minute180
kcalThis charcuterie board features a variety of cheeses paired with sweet peas, crunchy snacks, and fresh herbs. The taste is a delightful mix of creamy, salty, and sweet, making it an appealing choice for all palates.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar snap peas, strings removed
1 cup green beans, trimmed
2 to 3 spring onions, sliced lengthwise
4 ounces brie or soft goat cheese
4 ounces herbed cream cheese or Boursin
1 tablespoon olive oil (for optional drizzle)
Optional: crackers or crostini
Optional: lemon wedges or fresh dill for garnish
Directions
- Blanch the Green Beans:
- Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 1 minute. Immediately transfer to an ice bath. Drain and pat dry.
- Prep the Veggies:
- Trim sugar snap peas and remove strings if needed. Slice spring onions lengthwise to showcase their elegant shape.
- Prepare the Cheese:
- Set soft cheeses out at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to soften. Place in small ramekins or leave whole for guests to serve themselves.
- Assemble the Board:
- Arrange sugar snap peas, green beans, and spring onions in clusters around the board. Place cheese in the center or off to the side with a spreader. Garnish with lemon wedges or dill, and add crackers if desired.
Notes
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and cracked pepper over the cheese for a gourmet touch.
- You can also add sliced radishes, cucumber ribbons, or even fresh herbs like basil.
- This is a great vegetarian-friendly board with tons of texture and flavor.
- Pack it in a lidded container for a healthy spring picnic option.
Storage of Leftovers
Store leftover vegetables and cheese separately in airtight containers. Veggies will keep for up to 2 days in the fridge, while soft cheese should be consumed within 3 days.
Do not freeze. Serve veggies chilled or at room temperature.