Patriotic Cheese and Meat Board

Mozzarella balls can be skewered onto wooden or bamboo picks along with cherry or grape tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Or try mozzarella with berries and mint for a sweet taste. Top brie wheel with raspberry jam and herb dip with chopped herbs for a burst of color. Cut a few stars from thinly sliced Jarlsberg cheese and place around board.

For a more interesting board, serve 3 or 4 varieties of cheeses with a variety of textures, shapes and flavors. Soft, semi-soft and firm cheese; cubes, slices, logs and wedges all add more interest. For best flavor, let the cheeses sit for about 15 min. at room temperature before serving. If serving a wedge or full piece of cheese, be sure to place a knife on the board for each variety of cheese you are serving. Meats can be rolled or just laid out flat. Salami is commonly available in mild, spicy or pepper-encrusted slices.

Thinly sliced meats, such as these shown in the photo, can often be purchased in an assortment package found in the deli or cheese departments of your supermarket. Check out the store's olive bar for different types of marinated olives, such as those flavored with crushed red pepper or herbs.