How to Build a Balanced Snack Board with KRAVE Jerky and Everyday Ingredients

Quick Answer

To build a balanced snack board with KRAVE jerky, start with a mix of protein-rich jerky, creamy cheeses, fresh and dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and a few simple dips or crackers. Arrange them in small clusters on a large board, aiming for a variety of textures and flavors. This approach creates a satisfying, high-protein snack board that's perfect for parties or everyday snacking.

Snack boards are a fun and easy way to serve a crowd, and adding jerky gives them a protein-packed twist. KRAVE jerky comes in flavors like Sea Salt Original and Black Cherry BBQ, making it a versatile centerpiece for a board that balances savory, sweet, and salty elements.

In this guide, you'll learn how to assemble a balanced snack board using everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. We'll cover what to include, how to arrange it, and common mistakes to avoid—so you can create a beautiful and delicious platter in minutes.

Choose Your Jerky Base

The star of your snack board is the jerky, so choose a variety that offers different flavors and textures. For a classic, savory option, Sea Salt Original beef jerky is a great choice. Its tender slices and sweet-and-salty profile pair well with a wide range of accompaniments.

If you want to add a bolder, fruitier note, Black Cherry BBQ pork jerky delivers a sweet and peppery kick that can stand up to stronger cheeses and spicy dips. Including both gives your board variety and lets guests sample different KRAVE flavors.

• Tip: Offer at least two jerky flavors to cater to different taste preferences.

Pick Complementary Cheeses

Cheese is a natural partner for jerky, providing creaminess and richness that balance the chewiness of the meat. For a balanced board, choose a mix of soft and hard cheeses. A creamy brie or goat cheese works well with the sweet notes of Black Cherry BBQ, while a sharp cheddar or aged gouda complements the savory saltiness of Sea Salt Original.

If you're unsure about pairings, stick with crowd-pleasers like cheddar, Swiss, and a soft spreadable cheese. These offer enough variety without overwhelming the jerky's flavor.

• Tip: Slice hard cheeses in advance and keep soft cheeses whole with a spreading knife.

Add Fruits and Vegetables for Balance

Fresh and dried fruits add a touch of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the saltiness of jerky. Grapes, apple slices, dried apricots, and figs are all excellent choices. For a savory crunch, include raw vegetables like cucumber rounds, bell pepper strips, or cherry tomatoes.

These ingredients not only add color and texture but also provide fiber and vitamins, making your snack board more balanced and satisfying.

• Tip: Choose fruits that are in season for the best flavor and value.

Incorporate Crunchy Elements

Crunchy elements like nuts, crackers, and pretzels provide contrast to the chewy jerky and creamy cheese. Almonds, walnuts, and pecans are healthy options that add protein and healthy fats. For crackers, choose a neutral variety that won't overpower the other flavors.

You can also include olives, pickles, or cornichons for a briny, tangy pop that refreshes the palate between bites.

• Tip: Offer a gluten-free option like rice crackers or veggie sticks if needed.

Add Dips and Spreads

Dips and spreads bring everything together and give guests more ways to enjoy the board. Honey mustard, whole-grain mustard, or a fruit chutney pair well with both beef and pork jerky. A creamy hummus or ranch dip can also be a hit, especially if you're serving vegetables.

Keep dips in small bowls to avoid messes, and place them near the items they complement most.

• Tip: For a sweet-and-savory combo, drizzle a little honey over soft cheese near the Black Cherry BBQ jerky.

Arrange and Serve

Start by placing the jerky in a central spot or in two separate piles if you have multiple flavors. Then, fill in the board with cheeses, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and crackers, grouping similar items together. Use small bowls for dips and olives to keep the board organized.

Aim for a visually appealing mix of colors and textures. Leave a little space between clusters so guests can easily grab what they want. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.

• Tip: Prepare the board ahead of time and cover it with plastic wrap until ready to serve.

Step-by-Step: Build Your KRAVE Jerky Snack Board

1. Select your jerky: Choose 1-2 KRAVE jerky flavors, such as Sea Salt Original and Black Cherry BBQ, to serve as the protein centerpiece. Checkpoint: Make sure you have enough jerky for your guest count—about 2-3 ounces per person is a good rule.
2. Prep your cheeses: Slice hard cheeses into thin pieces and place soft cheeses in small bowls or on a separate plate. Let them come to room temperature for better flavor. Common mistake: Serving cheese straight from the fridge dulls its taste. Let it sit out for 30 minutes before serving.
3. Wash and cut produce: Rinse grapes and cherry tomatoes, slice apples and cucumbers, and arrange them in small clusters on the board. Checkpoint: Pat fruits and vegetables dry to prevent the board from becoming soggy.
4. Add crunchy items: Fill in gaps with nuts, crackers, and pretzels, placing them in small piles around the board. Common mistake: Overcrowding makes the board hard to use. Leave space between clusters.
5. Place dips and spreads: Put dips like honey mustard or hummus in small bowls and tuck them between other items. Checkpoint: Place dips near the items they pair with best, such as honey mustard near the jerky.
6. Assemble and serve: Arrange everything attractively, starting with the jerky and then filling in with other ingredients. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready. Final step: Take a step back and check for color and texture variety before presenting.

KRAVE Jerky Products on This Board

• Sea Salt Original: BEEF UP with tender slices of our deliciously indulgent Original Style jerky. Sweet, savory, and perfectly sea-salty...it's sure to satisfy all your KRAVINGS! This classic beef jerky is a versatile base for your snack board, pairing well with a variety of cheeses and fruits.
• Black Cherry BBQ: KRAVE Black Cherry BBQ Pork Jerky delivers tender slices of pork infused with a sweet and peppery black cherry barbecue sauce. This protein-packed snack is crafted for those who enjoy a bold, savory bite with a hint of fruity sweetness. Its bold, fruity flavor adds a distinctive twist to your board, making it a conversation starter and a great match for stronger cheeses.

Building a balanced snack board with KRAVE jerky is a simple way to offer a protein-packed, crowd-pleasing appetizer. With a mix of jerky, cheese, fruits, and crunchy extras, you can create a platter that looks impressive and tastes great. Experiment with different KRAVE flavors and seasonal ingredients to keep your boards fresh and exciting.