I make charcuterie boards for a living. Here are my 7 secrets to creating the best spread.

After working in the charcuterie industry for four years, I've learned how to make the best cheese spread.

Amaan Bhanji

I'm the franchise owner of a custom charcuterie-board company, and after four years in the industry, I've discovered what separates a good cheese spread from a great one.Even though it might seem easy to assemble a simple board with meats and cheeses, a few tricks can elevate it into the culinary star of a party or gathering.Here are my seven secrets to making the best charcuterie boards.

I spend just as much time choosing ingredients as I do building the board.

I like to feature a variety of spicy and salty meats, along with a mix of soft, hard, and aged cheeses.