How to make a healthy charcuterie board

A charcuterie board is an easy and impressive way to create a special holiday meal or appetizer.

Naturopathic doctor Kate Rhéaume shared tips on how to make your board healthy.

Meat and other protein selections

Processed meats like prosciutto and salamis are usually found on charcuterie boards, but Dr. Kate Rhéaume says to look for meats that are less processed and have low nitrates.  If you are eating processed or cured meats, pair them with a food with Vitamin C in it. Alternatively you can add different protein to your board, such as hard boiled eggs, edamame and hummus.

Cheese

Cheese is a great source of protein and Vitamin K2 and is very heart healthy, so while it may get a bad wrap for being high in fat, it is in fact a great thing to have on your charcuterie board.

Pickled or Fermented Foods

These are a great option to add to a board as they are sources of probiotics that will help your good gut bacteria thrive.  Think of foods like pickles, olives, kimchi and sauerkraut.  All of these will help with food digestion and indigestion.

Bread and crackers

Choose a whole grain option or gluten-free option, as you can’t have a charcuterie board without crackers.

Fruits and vegetables

They are great source of fibre which will make you feel full so eat less of the cheese, meat and bread.  Fruits and vegetables also have Vitamin C and enzymes which helps break down the other foods.