If you’re looking to put a healthy twist on the classic charcuterie board then look no further! While traditionally these boards are filled with fatty deli meats and dairy cheese, I have listed several plant based and vegan options for a lighter and healthier assortment.

These types of grazing boards are easy to throw together and can be served for all kinds of occasions. From date night to larger gatherings, a pretty charcuterie board instantly makes it a party!

The best part is that charcuterie boards are very easy to customize to all kinds of dietary needs, and you can accommodate multiple dietary restrictions all in one board. You’ll the hostess who can please everyone without much effort.

I wanted to quickly touch on the differences between having a plant based diet vs. being vegan. It is my understanding that in a plant based diet your meals mostly consist of fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, oils, whole grains, legumes, beans and the occasional meat, fish or dairy. Where as a vegan diet strictly doesn’t eat dairy, meat or any other animal products. I say this because I do include cheese, crackers and breads on the list for a “cheese board” serving option.

Also, at the bottom of this blog post you’ll find a shopping guide to handmade and oh so pretty serving and cutting boards. From hand carved wood to marble and stone, you’ll definitely find one that you just can’t live without.

Top Plant Based & Vegan Foods for Your charcuterie Board

Hummus

Hummus is one of those wonder foods because it’s so healthy, accommodates so many foodie lifestyles and it’s just so yummy to eat. If you’re on a time crunch you can purchase pre-made hummus or you can use your blender (or food processor) to make a fresh batch.

Fresh Fruit

Fruit adds that touch of fresh and sweet that no other food can deliver. Fresh produce also adds a lot of color and interest to your charcuterie board. Make sure you cut your fruit and veggies in a way that’s convenient for your guests to grab off the board.

Grapes
Sliced Apples
Strawberries (brownie points for chocolate covered!)
Diced Pineapple
Diced or Sliced Melons - Cantaloupe, watermelon or honeydew.

Fresh Vegetables

Vegetables are one of the main staples of a vegan and plant based diet, which means you should have several options available. You can also offer side dishes of roasted and sautéed veggies if you want alternatives to the raw ones.

Sliced Cucumbers
Cut Bell Peppers - Red, orange and yellow bell peppers are the sweetest!
Crinkle Cut Carrot Chips
Cut Celery
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Cherry Tomatoes
Sautéed Asparagus

Olives

Olives are one of my all-time favorite foods because they have a rich and buttery flavor with salty notes. They’re a classic addition to any charcuterie board. Make sure to serve them with wooden toothpicks so they’re easy to grab off the board.

Nuts

Nuts are a staple in the plant based and vegan diet because they’re very nutritious, filled with healthy fats, protein and fiber, and of course delicious! Nuts are a great addition to your charcuterie board because they are very filling and will leave your guests feeling satisfied.

Cashews
Almonds
Peanuts
Macadamias
Pistachios
Candied Walnuts
Candied Pecans
Brazil Nuts
Pine Nuts

Crackers and Pretzels

You can opt for traditional or gluten-free crackers and pretzels, either way they will make the hummus and dips easy to eat. And if you decide to serve cheese they are a classic pair with crackers.

Veggie Straws

Veggie straws add some fun visual shapes and savory flavors to your board assortment. You can also dip them into the hummus or dips.

Dairy Cheese or Vegan Cheese

Just like dairy cheese, vegan cheese also comes in all kinds of consistencies and flavors. They can range from a vegan cheese dip, vegan hard cheese cubes or even sliced vegan cheese. You will have to seek out your local health food store to see what options are available. One favorite to look for is cashew cheese - it can come in all kinds forms and vegans love it.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruits add some bold sweet tangy flavors and they compliment any kind of cheese on your board. They also add rich colors and textures for an aesthetically pleasing display. There’s also dehydrated fruits too consider as well.

Dried Apricots
Dried Cranberries
Gourmet Raisins
Dehydrated Apple Rings

Guacamole, Salsa and Chips

Avocados are the darling of the plant based and vegan world and they can be quickly whipped up into a shareable guacamole bowl. Pair your guac with a bowl of fresh salsa. It’s also very easy to find vegan and gluten-free tortilla chips.

Vegan Dips and Spreads

Almost all your classic dairy dips can be make into vegan-friendly versions. My personal favorites are the old-school creamy spinach dip, onion dip and faux buffalo chicken dip. The base for these dips can be cashew sour cream, vegan cream cheese, nut butters and vegan mayonnaise.

Vegan Dark Chocolate

Don’t forget to add a touch of sweetness to your charcuterie board with vegan dark chocolate. It’s pairs very well with the dried fruit and nuts!

Pro tips for serving your charcuterie board:

Garnish the board with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an extra special touch. The scent from the herbs will waft around the dining table and really awaken your guests’ appetites.
Provide small plates and utensils next to the board so they can load up on their favorite foods.
Go the extra mile and serve complimentary cocktails or mocktails alongside your board.