This week at Shrub Oak International School, we gathered together to create something both delicious and nourishing in a no bake activity: charcuterie board filled with fresh fruits, crisp vegetables, creamy hummus, and homemade nut-free butter. The experience gave our students the opportunity to prepare a wholesome meal with their own hands, showcasing the joy of making food that is as beautiful as it is healthful. With ingredients picked directly from our garden, the charcuterie board reflected the values of freshness, nutrition, and creativity that are at the heart of our school community.
We began by arranging an assortment of fruits and vegetables, many harvested from our own garden. Juicy apples, crunchy celery, and carrots added a splash of color and flavor, making the board both visually appealing and balanced in taste. By including such a variety, our students experienced the benefits of eating the rainbow—a nutrition principle that encourages diverse fruit and vegetable choices to provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals. The freshness of our homegrown produce highlighted the value of farm-to-table eating, and our students took pride in knowing that the food on their plate had been nurtured by their own hands.
To complement the fruits and vegetables, we prepared a smooth and flavorful hummus. Made from chickpeas, olive oil, lemon, and garlic, the hummus offered a protein-rich dip that paired perfectly with our garden vegetables. It was a reminder that healthy eating does not have to be complicated; sometimes the simplest recipes deliver the greatest benefits. Our students enjoyed the process of mixing and tasting, learning that wholesome ingredients can come together quickly to form something delicious and satisfying.
One of the most exciting elements of our charcuterie board was the homemade nut-free butter. By making it ourselves, we created a safe and inclusive alternative that could be enjoyed by everyone. The process of preparing it was both educational and engaging, showing our students that homemade versions of foods often surpass store-bought options in both flavor and nutrition. Spreading the nut-free butter on apple slices or pairing it with fresh vegetables gave the board a unique and tasty twist while reinforcing the importance of mindful eating.
Our students had the chance to experiment with presentation and explore different textures and flavors. As we assembled the board together, we discussed the value of making healthful choices and how homemade food empowers us to know exactly what goes into what we eat. The activity encouraged teamwork, creativity, and independence, while also leaving us with something delicious to share.
At Shrub Oak International School, we believe that preparing food can be both fun and educational. Creating our charcuterie board gave our students an opportunity to connect with their food, celebrate fresh ingredients from our garden, and enjoy the rewards of making something nourishing by hand. This experience not only filled our plates but also reinforced our commitment to health, creativity, and community in every bite.
