Let’s be honest: some days are just not meant for cooking. Whether you’re winding down after a long travel day, hosting an impromptu girls’ night, or simply embracing your inner Euro goddess, charcuterie is the chic, low-effort dinner that delivers every time. 🧀🍇🍷
It’s also a staple in my travel life—and a perfect way to stay (mostly) healthy while still indulging in something beautiful, flavorful, and totally Instagrammable.
But here’s the rub: most pre-packaged charcuterie boards? Total gut health nightmare. 🤢 Salami, cheddar, and sad little crackers do not a Mediterranean moment make.
So let’s level up.
Sure, grocery stores have cute ready-made charcuterie trays—but they usually scream “processed and preservative-packed.”
Instead, use them as inspo and build your own board with Mediterranean flair. Your gut (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.
Swap this → For this:
Swap this → For this:
Add in:
I love the creativity of making charcuterie. Every board is something new! Here’s my no-fail Rule of Threes for the perfect charcuterie setup:
This method gives your board balance, dimension, and variety—without overwhelming your shopping list.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re channeling the Mediterranean lifestyle (like me), your board should be paired with red wine. (Yes, I know I always root for bubbles, but don’t revoke my sommelier card—I promise I’m versatile.)
A little cured meat? Sure. A whole board of mystery meats? Not ideal. 😬
Highly processed meats like pepperoni and salami should be occasional treats—not your main protein source. Swap in grilled chicken breast, sliced turkey, or even lentil salad for a protein-rich, gut-happy option. You’ll still get that savory fix without the post-salami slump.
Here’s a personal travel hack: whenever I’m stuck on a layover, I skip the sad fast food and head straight for a wine bar. Most airport bars offer a version of a cheese board—and if you land near a Vino Volo (🔗 locations here), you’ve hit the jackpot.
Their charcuterie plates + wine flights = the chicest way to kill two hours.
No soggy fries. No regrets. Just delicious bites and maybe a little bubbly before boarding.
Whether you’re hosting, hiking, or heading to the gate, a well-balanced charcuterie board is a deliciously grown-up way to eat well, travel smart, and never sacrifice the vibes. 🥂
Ready to build your dream board? Tag me on Instagram @bubblybeforeboarding with your charcuterie setup—I need to see that cheese lineup.
