Cheese boards are a popular entertaining staple. Not only are cheese boards delicious, but they’re also easy to put together and perfect for any party or gathering.
But what if you don’t have any cheese on hand or you’re looking to switch things up?
As an experienced home cook and chef, I have put together a list of 19 quick cheese board alternatives that you can easily whip up in no time!
So, let’s get started!
In short, "What can I use instead of cheese board?" Hummus Board, Charcuterie Board, Guacamole Board, Vegetable Board, Fruit Board, Bruschetta Board, Wing Board, Bagel Board, Taco Board, Dessert Board, Hummus and Vegetable Platter, Caprese Skewers and many more.
What is a cheese board?
A cheese board is a platter or board used to serve a variety of cheeses, often accompanied by other complementary foods such as crackers, bread, fruit, nuts, and charcuterie.
Cheese boards can be served as a snack or appetizer, as part of a meal, or as the main focus of a party or gathering.
They can be simple or elaborate, featuring a variety of cheeses from different regions with different textures and flavors.
Cheese boards can be made using a variety of materials, such as wood, marble, slate, or ceramic, and can be styled in multiple ways, depending on the event and personal preference.
Some cheese boards may include labels or markers to indicate the types of cheeses or other foods being served, while others may be arranged in an aesthetically pleasing way, using a variety of colors and textures to create a visually appealing display.
Overall, a cheese board is a versatile and delicious way to entertain and enjoy a variety of cheeses and other foods, either alone or with friends and family.
Uses of a cheese board
A cheese board is a platter or board used to serve a variety of cheeses, often accompanied by other complementary foods such as crackers, bread, fruit, nuts, and charcuterie.
Cheese boards can be served as a snack or appetizer, as part of a meal, or as the main focus of a party or gathering.
Best cheese board alternative
1. Hummus Board
Swap out the cheese for different flavors of hummus and a variety of dipping options, such as carrots, cucumbers, pita chips, and olives.
It’s just as flavorful and satisfying as a cheese board to satisfy your taste buds.
2. Charcuterie Board
If you love cured meats but don’t want cheese, opt for a charcuterie board instead. Pair different types of salami, prosciutto, and ham with crackers, mustard, and pickles.
3. Guacamole Board
For a fresh and flavorful option, create a guacamole board. Include a variety of dips such as guacamole, salsa, queso, and chips.
You can even add some corn or black bean salad to bulk it up.
4. Vegetable Board
Sometimes you don’t want any dips or spreads but still want something healthy and delicious. Create a vegetable board with a variety of raw veggies and a dipping sauce or two.
5. Fruit Board
Similarly, swap the cheese for a variety of fresh fruits and a dipping sauce. Ideal for a summer party or as a light snack.
6. Bruschetta Board
If you’re searching for something more substantial, create a bruschetta board. Offer different types of bruschetta, such as tomato, basil, and garlic or mushroom and thyme.
7. Wing Board
Love wings? Create a wing board with different flavors, such as buffalo, BBQ, and honey mustard. Added some carrots and celery on the side, and you’ve got a perfect party snack.
8. Bagel Board
Who says bagels are just for breakfast? Create a bagel board with different types of bagels, cream cheese spreads, and toppings such as lox, tomatoes, and capers.
9. Taco Board
For a fun twist on traditional nachos, you can create a taco board. Offer different types of tortillas, fillings such as chicken, beef, and fish, and toppings like guacamole, salsa, and cheese.
10. Dessert Board
Finally, for a sweet ending to any party, create a dessert board that includes a variety of sweet and decadent treats such as chocolates, cookies, and fruit.
11. Hummus and Vegetable Platter
Swap out the cheese for hummus and serve it with a variety of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes.
12. Caprese Skewers
Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and bite-sized mozzarella balls onto skewers and drizzle with balsamic glaze or olive oil for an Italian-inspired appetizer.
13. Fruit and Nut Platter
Mix and match fresh fruits like grapes, berries, and sliced apples or pears with a selection of nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews.
Serve on a platter for a colorful and nutritious snack.
14. Bruschetta
Top crispy baguette slices with chopped tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar for a tasty and easy-to-prepare appetizer.
15. Deviled Eggs
Hard-boil some eggs and mix the yolks with mayo, mustard, and spices for a classic party staple that never disappoints.
16. Edamame Dip
Blend cooked edamame with garlic, lemon juice, and tahini for a healthy and flavorful dip that goes well with crackers, veggies, or pita chips.
17. Baked Brie with Fig Jam
Warm up a wheel of brie in the oven and top it with some sweet fig jam or honey for a sophisticated and indulgent appetizer.
18. Antipasto Skewers
This is my personal favorite. Thread marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, cubed cheese, and some deli meats onto skewers for a colorful and savory snack that can be prepared ahead of time.
19. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Last but not the list, Spinach and Artichoke Dip.Mix canned artichokes, spinach, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese, bake until bubbly, and serve with tortilla chips or crispy bread slices.
Discover more: Delicious burrata cheese Substitutes
How do you make a cheese board without a board?
If you don’t have a cheese board, there are several creative ways to make a cheese board without a board, including:
1. Use a large platter: A large platter can be used as a makeshift cheese board. Choose a platter that is big enough to accommodate all of your cheeses and complementary foods.
2. Use a slate tile or serving tray: If you have a slate tile or serving tray, you can use it as a cheese board. Slate is a great material for cheese boards because it is non-porous and easy to clean.
3. Use a cutting board: If you don’t have a specific cheese board, you can use a clean cutting board as a makeshift cheese board.
4. Use a marble slab: A marble slab can be used as a cheese board, and it can keep your cheeses and other foods cool.
5. Use parchment paper or butcher paper: You can lay out a piece of parchment paper or butcher paper and arrange your cheeses and complementary foods on top.
Regardless of your selected method, make sure to arrange your cheeses and complementary foods in an aesthetically pleasing way, with different colors, textures, and shapes. Don’t forget to include cheese knives, spoons, or other utensils for serving.
Learn more: Best & delicious gruyere cheese Substitutes
Conclusion on cheese board alternative
There are many quick and easy alternatives to a traditional cheese board. From vegetable boards to dessert boards, the possibilities are endless.
So next time you’re in a pinch or just looking to switch things up, try one of these delicious options instead. Your guests and tongue will thank you.
FAQs on cheese board alternative
Q1. What is similar to a cheese board?
There are multiple things that are similar to a cheese board and can be used as an alternative, including:
1. Charcuterie board: A charcuterie board is similar to a cheese board, but it includes a variety of cured meats, pâtés, terrines, crackers, and other complementary foods.
2. Appetizer platter: An appetizer platter is similar to a cheese board but can include a variety of other appetizers, such as dips, vegetables, olives, and bread.
3. Snack platter: A snack platter is similar to a cheese board, but it includes a variety of different snacks, such as popcorn, nuts, dried fruits, and chocolates.
4. Fruit platter: A fruit platter is similar to a cheese board, but it includes a variety of fresh fruits, such as grapes, berries, melons, and citrus.
5. Dessert platter: A dessert platter is similar to a cheese board, but it includes a variety of sweet treats, such as cookies, chocolates, and pastries.
Overall, the idea behind a cheese board can be adapted to include different types of foods and presented in a way that is visually appealing and delicious.
Q2. what to serve after the cheese board?
After serving a cheese board, there are several complementary foods and beverages that you can serve to continue the meal or to offer as a dessert. Here are a few ideas:
1. Fresh fruit: A platter of fresh fruit, such as berries, sliced melon, or grapes, can be a refreshing and healthy way to continue the meal after a cheese board.
2. Desserts: You can serve a variety of desserts, such as cookies, pastries, or chocolate, to continue the indulgence after the cheese board.
3. Wine: Wine is a classic beverage to serve with cheese, and you can continue to offer a selection of red and white wines to pair with the complementary foods you are serving.
4. Coffee or tea: After a cheese board, a cup of coffee or tea can be a nice way to wind down and enjoy the flavors of the cheeses and other foods.
5. Digestifs: A digestif is a beverage, such as brandy, cognac, or liqueur, that is traditionally served after a meal to aid in digestion and offer a final touch of indulgence.
Overall, there are multiple options to choose from when serving complementary foods after a cheese board.
The key is to select items that complement the flavors and textures of the cheeses and other foods you have served and to continue to offer plenty of options to keep the meal interesting and satisfying.
Q3. What can I use rather than a wooden board for charcuterie?
If you don’t have a wooden board for a charcuterie platter, there are several alternatives you can use, including:
1. Slate or marble board: Slate and marble are both good alternatives to wood because they are non-porous and easy to clean.
2. Ceramic platter: A ceramic platter is a great option for a charcuterie platter because it is sturdy and can be decorated with patterns or colors.
3. Glass platter: A glass platter can work well for a charcuterie platter because it is easy to clean and can showcase the colors and textures of the food.
4. Serving tray: A serving tray, such as a metal tray or a tray made from plastic, can be a good option for a charcuterie platter, especially if it has raised edges to contain the food.
5. Cutting board: A clean, wooden or plastic cutting board can be used as a makeshift charcuterie platter.
Overall, the most vital thing is to choose a platter or board that is large enough to accommodate all of the food you want to serve and is visually appealing. Don’t forget to include cheese knives, spoons, or other utensils for serving.
Q4. What are the best materials for cheese boards?
When it comes to cheese boards, there are several materials that are popular and work well for serving cheese and complementary foods. Here are some of the finest materials for cheese boards:
1. Wood: A classic material for cheese boards is wood because it is durable, natural, and can be carved into a variety of shapes and sizes. Wood boards are also great for presentation as they have a warm and rustic look that complements cheese and other foods.
2. Slate: Slate is a great material for cheese boards because it is non-porous, easy to clean, and has a smooth surface that can showcase cheeses and other foods. Slate boards can be found in different sizes and shapes, and they are usually dark in color, which provides a nice contrast to the cheese.
3. Marble: Marble is another popular material for cheese boards because it has a classic and elegant look that can elevate the presentation of cheese and other foods. Marble boards are also easy to clean and keep cool, which is great for serving cheese.
4. Ceramic: Ceramic cheese boards are great because they come in different colors and designs, making them a versatile option for different styles and occasions. Ceramic boards are also dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.
5. Glass: Glass cheese boards have a modern look and can showcase the colors and textures of the cheese and other foods. Glass is also easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
Q5. Why are cheese boards so expensive?
Cheese boards can vary in price depending on the materials used, the size, and the craftsmanship. Here are some reasons why cheese boards can be expensive:
1. High-quality materials: The cost of a cheese board can be influenced by the quality of the materials used to make it. For example, cheese boards made of high-quality wood or marble can be more expensive due to the cost of the materials themselves.
2. Handmade or artisanal craftsmanship: Cheese boards that are handmade or created by artisans can be more expensive due to the time and effort required to create them.
3. Brand and reputation: Cheese boards made by well-known brands or companies may carry a higher price tag due to their reputation for quality and style.
4. Customization and personalization: Some cheese boards can be customized or personalized with names, logos, or special designs. These customizations may increase the cost of the cheese board.
5. Import costs: Some cheese boards may be imported from other countries, which can increase the cost due to shipping and import fees.
Overall, cheese boards can be expensive due to a variety of factors, including the materials used, the craftsmanship, the brand, and any customization or personalization. However, there are also plenty of reasonable options available for those who are looking for a simpler or more budget-friendly option.