Cheese Platter – Elegant Appetizer for Any Occasion
A well-curated cheese platter is an effortless yet elegant way to impress your guests. Whether you’re entertaining for a special occasion or indulging in a quiet night at home, a variety of cheeses paired with fruits, nuts, and crackers create a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Customize your platter based on your taste preferences and enjoy a sophisticated snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 3-4 types of cheese (soft, semi-soft, hard, and blue)
- Examples: Brie, Gouda, Cheddar, Roquefort
- Assorted crackers or bread
- Fresh fruits (grapes, apple slices, figs)
- Dried fruits (apricots, cranberries)
- Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- Honey or fruit preserves
- Charcuterie (optional: prosciutto, salami)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional: rosemary, thyme)
Directions
Choose the Cheeses. Select 3-4 different types of cheese, aiming for a balance of textures and flavors—soft, semi-soft, hard, and a bold blue cheese. Remove the cheeses from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to allow them to come to room temperature.
Arrange the Cheeses. On a large serving board, arrange the cheeses evenly across the board. Place larger blocks or wheels first, leaving space between them for other ingredients.
Add Accompaniments. Fill the empty spaces with crackers, bread, fruits, and nuts. Spread the colors and textures evenly to make the platter visually appealing.
Garnish. Drizzle honey or serve small bowls of fruit preserves alongside the cheese. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and aroma.
Serve and Enjoy. Offer a small cheese knife for each type of cheese so guests can easily slice and serve themselves.
Recipe tips
Mix mild cheeses like Brie with stronger ones like Roquefort to provide variety. Include crunchy accompaniments like nuts and crackers to balance the creaminess of the cheese. The sweetness of fruits complements salty cheeses. Try seasonal fruits like grapes or figs, and pair them with dried fruits like apricots. Always serve cheese at room temperature for the best flavor. Pair the platter with a glass of wine that complements the cheeses. A white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine like Pinot Noir works well.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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