While I love a decadent appetizer, some of my favorite Friday afternoon happy hours take a simplified approach, while still maintaining that elevated element. After all, it’s more about the company and conversation, but still appreciating the beauty of food and its organic ability to bring people together.  So, this afternoon we’re enjoying a fresh loaf of sourdough, a craft I will forever continue to perfect, as well as some quick and easy accompaniments that take no time to pull together.

When I arrange a charcuterie board, other than ensuring it’s colorful since we eat with our eyes first, I always lean into having something salty, something sweet, and something with a little bit of crunch. For the sweetness, I took inspiration from some beautiful honey I recently picked up at a local farmers market. I drizzled it on top of some goat cheese, which is a perfect pairing. This is a cheese I always have stocked in my fridge as it goes with so many dishes, largely crumbled in salads. For something salty and colorful, I cut up some saucisson sec, aka salami, as well as pitted green Castelvetrano olives. Again, I often have these on hand as they are a favorite of my husband. Finally, for a little crunch, another go-to from our pantry are some Marcona almonds, and in this case, they are flavored with a truffle oil.

The options are endless for charcuterie boards and with an appropriately stocked fridge and pantry, one can be whipped up in no time. Cheers to a slow-paced Friday afternoon!