Starters and Snacks

Portuguese Cheese and Cold Cuts Board

Selection of cheeses, cold cuts, bread, olives, and jams to share.

RegionNational
DifficultyEasy
Total Time20 min
Servings4 to 6 servings
Photo of Portuguese Cheese and Cold Cuts Board - traditional Portuguese recipe
Photo of the traditional Portuguese recipe.

Editorial content from Empório Portugal. Traditional recipes may vary by region, family, and cook.

About the Recipe

A well-assembled Portuguese board highlights products, regions, and contrasts.

Cheeses, cold cuts, bread, and olives form a simple yet identity-rich starter.

The idea is not to cook, but to choose, slice, and balance flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheep or goat cheese
  • 1 cured or creamy cheese
  • Sliced chorizo
  • Portuguese ham or paio
  • Seasoned olives
  • Rustic bread
  • Fig or pumpkin jam
  • Dried fruits optional

Preparation Method

  1. Choose a large board and arrange the cheeses first.
  2. Slice the cold cuts to a comfortable thickness.
  3. Distribute bread, olives, and jams in different spots.
  4. Include separate knives for cheeses of distinct textures.
  5. Take cheeses out of the fridge a few minutes beforehand.
  6. Serve with napkins and small plates.

Tips from Empório Portugal

  • Mix textures: creamy, cured, smoked, and crunchy.
  • Don't overdo sweet items.
  • Good bread is as important as cheese and cold cuts.

Possible Substitutions in Brazil

  • Use Brazilian sheep or goat cheeses when Portuguese ones are unavailable.
  • Artisanal cured sausage can replace imported cold cuts.

Pairing

Light red wine, structured white, or Port, depending on the cheeses. Content intended for those over 18 years old. Drink responsibly.

Editorial Note from Empório Portugal

This recipe is part of the editorial curation of Empório Portugal, developed from Portuguese culinary tradition. Like all traditional recipes, it may vary according to region, family, and cook.

Do you have a family Portuguese recipe?

Send it to the Empório Portugal community. Submitted recipes undergo review before any publication.

Submit my recipe

Letter from Portugal

Receive recipes, guides, and Portuguese stories.

An editorial selection from Empório Portugal, without exaggerated promises and with respect for your privacy.

Subscribe to newsletter