The cutting board is a common kitchen tool that shouldn't be overlooked! Whether you are looking for food-prep space, protection for your beautiful countertops, or a stylish cheeseboard, finding the right cutting board will let out your inner chef. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of cutting boards and how to find the best cutting board for you.

What Is a Cutting Board?

A cutting board is a sturdy board that is commonly used for cutting, slicing, or chopping food. It helps protect your countertops from getting scratched and can double as an attractive serving board.

Best Cutting Board Types

Cutting Board: A classic cutting board is a durable board that is meant for cutting meat and vegetables. The sturdy surface makes chopping and cutting foods easier. It can be made out of a variety of materials, like plastic, wood, or glass. If you find yourself chopping a variety of food items, opt for a cutting board set so you’ll have a few different sizes to work with. You’ll be able to stay focused on your recipe without having to clean the cutting board continuously.

Cutting Board with Handles: If you want to use your cutting board as a serving tray, opt for a cutting board with handles. It allows for the same functions as a cutting board but has a handle to make transferring it easier.

Carving Board: Carving boards are generally on the wider side and are meant for carving and slicing roasts or turkeys. They often have a groove around the edge of the board that catches excess juice, allowing you to keep your table or countertop clean.

Butcher Block: Butcher blocks are thick blocks that are meant for chopping, cutting, and slicing meat. They are durable enough to withstand your knife and the thickness allows for added weight, as butchering meat is often labor-intensive. They are also commonly called chopping boards.

Breadboard: This is the perfect board for slicing and serving your favorite loaf of bread. A breadboard is long and slim (perfect for baguettes!) and durable enough for frequent slicing. There are even slits on the side of the board that can guide your cutting.

Tip!

Pair a bread knife with your breadboard, letting your guests cut the perfect slice of bread when ready

Pastry Board: A pastry board is designed for kneading and mixing pastry dough and can withstand added pressure. If you are a baker, this smooth, chilled surface is an essential tool to prevent your dough from sticking to your countertop and does not require excess flour.

Best Cutting Board Materials

Wood: Wood cutting boards are popular due to their look and are best for cutting breads, vegetables, or fruits. Opt for hardwoods like maple, teak, or walnut – they are more resistant to scratches and cracks from knives. Wood cutting boards require more maintenance because they must be hand-washed and need to be oiled a few times throughout the year to keep them crack-free and smooth. If you find that water has been absorbed into your cutting board, it is time to oil again.

Bamboo: Bamboo cutting boards are a great alternative to wood and offer all the same benefits with a different look. They are best cleaned by hand, and for that reason they work well for slicing vegetables, fruit, or bread. Treat them similarly to wood by using mineral oil several times a year.

Plastic: Plastic cutting boards are great for cutting meat because they are easy to clean and can be placed in the dishwasher. They are soft enough to not damage your knives when you are slicing or cutting. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, plastic cutting boards are a great choice.

Marble: Marble is great for keeping things chilled, making it perfect for serving fruits or cheese. You will find that most pastry boards are marble because the chilled material helps keep the dough from sticking.

Marble & Wood: The combination of marble and wood makes for an attractive serving tray. The marble keeps foods chilled while the wood creates a sturdy surface to cut or slice bread or vegetables.

Glass: Glass cutting boards make a beautiful serving tray for fruit, cheese, and crackers. They are easy to clean and the glass surface does not absorb any liquids. Keep in mind that chopping or slicing on glass can be harder on your knives.

Tempered Glass: Tempered glass has all the benefits of glass but is even stronger. It is also nonporous, meaning it won’t absorb any juices from raw meats. It is easy to clean, making it a great option for someone who needs to chop things back-to-back.

Granite: Granite cutting boards are not only durable, but they make for a stylish addition to your countertops and can be left out for decorative purposes. Granite can often dull knives, so you will want to sharpen your knives often. Granite has a cool surface and is best used for rolling dough or as a serving tray.

Acrylic: With nonstick rubber feet, acrylic cutting boards will not slip while slicing, chopping, or cutting. They are best used with chilled foods and are not meant to withstand heat. Acrylic cutting boards are best washed by hand with soap and water.

Silicone: Silicone cutting boards are great for keeping your knives in good shape due to their cushioned support. They are flexible and can be moved or folded whenever needed, making them a go-to option if you are moving around the kitchen often.

Recycled Paper:Recycled paper cutting boards are made from layers of recycled paper and are durable, knife-friendly, and dishwasher-safe. If you are looking for something more eco-friendly, this is the best cutting board for you.