17 Best Trader Joe’s Items for a Budget-Friendly Charcuterie Board

When it comes to building a charcuterie board on a budget, Trader Joe’s is the place to go. Known for its unique and reasonably priced products, this grocery store makes it easy to create an impressive spread without spending a fortune. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging in a treat for yourself, Trader Joe’s has a variety of options to help you craft a beautiful charcuterie board. Here are some of the best picks that offer both quality and value.

Unexpected Cheddar

Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar is a must-have for any charcuterie board. It starts with the familiar sharpness of an aged cheddar but surprises you with a hint of Parmesan, making it a crowd-pleaser with a unique twist. Its crumbly texture and rich flavor pair beautifully with crackers, fresh fruit, and cured meats. At an affordable price, it’s a gourmet option that won’t stretch your budget.

Italian Dry Salame

The Italian Dry Salame from Trader Joe’s is a perfect addition to your charcuterie board, offering a savory, slightly peppery taste that complements a variety of cheeses and spreads. Made from high-quality pork and seasoned with a blend of spices, this salame has a traditional flavor that brings authenticity to your spread. It’s pre-sliced for convenience, so you can easily arrange it on your board without any fuss. Affordable and delicious, it’s a great way to add a touch of Italy to your charcuterie selection.

Fig & Olive Crisps

These Fig & Olive Crisps are a delightful cracker option that adds a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch to your charcuterie board. The figs provide a natural sweetness, while the olives add a subtle savory note, making these crisps a perfect pairing with cheeses like brie or goat cheese. They also work well with spreads and dips, adding both flavor and texture to your board. Priced reasonably, they offer a gourmet touch without the gourmet price.

Marcona Almonds with Rosemary

Marcona Almonds with Rosemary is a sophisticated addition to any charcuterie board, offering a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of rosemary that elevates the entire spread. These almonds are lightly salted and roasted, providing a satisfying crunch that pairs well with both cheeses and cured meats. Their distinct taste makes them a standout snack on your board, and they’re perfect for adding variety and texture. While they have a gourmet appeal, they’re reasonably priced, making them a luxurious yet affordable choice.

Triple Crème Brie

For a creamy, indulgent option, Trader Joe’s Triple Crème Brie is a standout choice. This soft cheese has a rich, buttery texture and a mild flavor that complements a variety of accompaniments, from sweet jams to savory crackers. It spreads easily, making it a versatile addition to your charcuterie board, perfect for guests who love decadent cheese. Despite its luxurious taste, it’s priced affordably, making it easy to include without overspending.

Prosciutto

Trader Joe’s Prosciutto is a must-have for any charcuterie board, offering thin slices of dry-cured ham that bring a touch of elegance to your spread. The prosciutto has a delicate flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with cheeses, fruits, and bread. It’s a versatile meat that adds both flavor and visual appeal to your board. Best of all, it’s offered at a reasonable price, making it accessible for those on a budget.

Unexpected Cheddar with Caramelized Onions

This variation of the classic Unexpected Cheddar is enhanced with sweet caramelized onions, adding an extra layer of flavor to your charcuterie board. The sharpness of the cheddar is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the onions, creating a complex and satisfying taste. It pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, from salty crackers to fresh fruits. Despite its gourmet appeal, it’s available at a budget-friendly price, making it a great value for your board.

Toscano Cheese with Black Pepper

Trader Joe’s Toscano Cheese with Black Pepper is a unique and flavorful option for your charcuterie board. This cow’s milk cheese is aged to develop a firm texture and a nutty, slightly tangy flavor, enhanced by the bite of cracked black pepper. It’s a great cheese for those who enjoy a bit of spice, and it pairs well with both sweet and savory accompaniments. Despite its bold flavor, it’s reasonably priced, making it a great value for your board.

Spanish Style Meat Trio

The Spanish Style Meat Trio from Trader Joe’s offers a selection of cured meats, including chorizo, salchichón, and jamón, all in one convenient package. These meats bring a variety of flavors and textures to your charcuterie board, from the smoky, spicy chorizo to the delicate, savory jamón. It’s a great way to add diversity to your spread without having to purchase multiple products. Priced affordably, it’s an easy way to introduce a taste of Spain to your board.

Goat Cheese Log with Honey

This Goat Cheese Log with Honey is a delightful combination of tangy goat cheese and sweet honey, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The cheese is creamy and smooth, making it easy to spread on crackers or bread. The addition of honey adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with fruits and nuts on your charcuterie board. Despite its gourmet flavor profile, it’s available at an affordable price, making it a great value for any gathering.

Roasted Plantain Chips

Roasted Plantain Chips from Trader Joe’s are a crunchy, slightly sweet snack that adds both flavor and texture to your charcuterie board. These chips are made from ripe plantains and have a satisfying crunch that pairs well with dips, cheeses, and meats. They’re a great alternative to traditional crackers, offering a unique and tasty option for your spread. Budget-friendly and delicious, they’re a fun addition that’s sure to be a hit.

Smoked Salmon

Trader Joe’s Smoked Salmon is a luxurious yet affordable addition to your charcuterie board. The salmon is rich and flavorful, with a delicate smokiness that pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses, capers, and bread. It’s pre-sliced and ready to serve, making it a convenient option for adding a touch of elegance.

Pitted Castelvetrano Olives

Trader Joe’s Pitted Castelvetrano Olives are a must-have for your charcuterie board, offering a mild, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of cheeses and meats. These olives are known for their firm texture and bright green color, adding both visual appeal and a burst of fresh taste to your spread. Their subtle flavor makes them a crowd-pleaser, appealing even to those who might not typically enjoy olives. Affordable and versatile, they’re an easy way to elevate your charcuterie board without adding too much cost.

Everything But the Bagel Nut Duo

The Everything But the Bagel Nut Duo from Trader Joe’s is a flavorful blend of almonds and cashews seasoned with the popular “Everything But the Bagel” seasoning. This mix adds a savory, slightly garlicky crunch to your charcuterie board, providing a unique flavor profile that pairs well with cheeses and dried fruits. It’s a fun and unexpected addition that adds both texture and taste to your spread. Plus, it’s priced affordably, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly charcuterie board.

Simply Amazing Soft Dried Apricots

Trader Joe’s Simply Amazing Soft Dried Apricot are a sweet and chewy treat that adds a lovely contrast to the savory items on your charcuterie board. These apricots are naturally sweet, with a rich, fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with cheeses like blue cheese or goat cheese. Their vibrant orange color also adds a pop of color to your board, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty. At a reasonable price, they’re a great way to add a touch of sweetness to your spread without overspending.

Dark Chocolate Almonds

Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Almonds are a decadent treat that adds a touch of sweetness to your charcuterie board. These almonds are coated in rich, dark chocolate, offering a satisfying crunch and a bittersweet flavor that pairs well with both savory and sweet items on your board. They’re a great way to finish off your charcuterie spread, providing a little something for those with a sweet tooth. Priced reasonably, they add a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.

Pastry Bites Feta Cheese & Caramelized Onions

Trader Joe’s Pastry Bites Feta Cheese & Caramelized Onions bring the classic flavors of French onion soup to your charcuterie board in a convenient, bite-sized form. These bites are filled with a savory mix of caramelized onions and melted cheese, all encased in a crispy pastry shell. They add a warm, comforting element to your spread, offering a unique flavor that complements a variety of other charcuterie items. Priced reasonably, they’re a delicious way to add something special to your board without stretching your budget.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

More From RetailShout

19 Plant-Based Proteins to Include in Your Diet

Plant-based proteins have become a popular choice for many people seeking a healthier, more sustainable diet. These proteins are not only packed with essential nutrients but also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of food production. Read More.

25 Indoor Plants Perfect for Low-Light Conditions

There are plenty of indoor plants that thrive even in low-light environments. These plants not only add a touch of green to your home but also offer benefits like air purification and low maintenance. Read More.

15 Delicious Foods From Hawaii Everyone Should Try

Hawaii is a paradise not just for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes but also for its unique and mouth-watering cuisine. The islands boast a rich culinary tradition that combines flavors from different cultures, creating dishes that are both delicious and unforgettable. Read More.