EZPZ Gatherings keeps food simple, memorable

Ever wonder how to create those trendy charcuterie boards bursting with meats, cheese, fruits and veggies?

Now you don’t have to.

A new prep kitchen is scheduled to open May 16 in Aspinwall, where owner of EZPZ Gatherings, Sarah Tuthill, will create the elaborate spreads for you.

“I’m not a full-service caterer, but instead focus on what I call Gathering Boards — a delicious and artistic niche in food and entertaining that’s been gaining popularity,” Tuthill said.

Made-to-order cheese and charcuterie boards keep gatherings simple but make them memorable, she said.

“A Gathering Board is ideal for every occasion, from a picnic or date night in to a dinner party or a wedding, making it a food trend with staying power.”

An open house will be noon to 3 p.m. May 16 at 230 First St.

The public is welcome to drop in for a peek at the kitchen and enjoy cheese paired with items from other local woman-owned purveyors, such as La Dorita Dulce de Leche, Maple St. Jams, Best Ever Granola and Appalachia Botanical Co.

Masks are encouraged.

Boards come in four basic sizes, starting at $50 for a treat that serves two to four people.

Custom-made arrangements are available as well and can be geared toward mostly any theme.

To meet the safety concerns of the pandemic, Tuthill devised mini, individual portions that are served in compostable bamboo boats, cones and jars.

The “jarcuterie” is $7 and offers “everything you love about a board, but all stuffed into a mini mason jar.”

Soon, Tuthill plans to host small events in the 380-square-foot space where novice party hosts can learn the art of pairing wine and cheese, and also attend “boarding school,” which will offer the tips and tricks of creating a mouth-watering board.

Tuthill launched the business in 2020 just months before covid-19 hit, but rather than giving up, she pivoted.

EZPZ Gatherings operated initially from La Dorita commercial kitchen in Sharpsburg.

“I began offering small, individual options like charcuterie boxes, cups and jars for safe grazing options,” she said. “They all continue to be hugely popular.”

Future plans include customers being able to browse a curated collection of add-ons from other local businesses that might include jams and honeys to hand-made custom wooden boards.

Hours at the prep kitchen will be by appointment only.

Menu options are available online at ezpzgatherings.com.