Creating a simple cheese board is an artful balance of flavors, textures, and aesthetics that transforms ordinary ingredients into an exquisite culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re entertaining guests, planning a cozy evening in, or indulging in a personal treat, a well-curated cheese board has the power to elevate any occasion. With a thoughtful selection of cheeses, accompanied by an array of complementary fruits, nuts, crackers, and condiments, you can embark on a delightful journey of tastes and aromas. Crafting a cheese board is not just about arranging ingredients; it’s about creating a sensory experience that tantalizes the taste buds and captivates the eyes. In this culinary adventure, you’ll discover the art of pairing, learn about the nuances of different cheeses, and explore the endless possibilities of combining flavors to craft a cheese board that is not only visually appealing but also a gastronomic delight.
Simple Cheese Board
As always, I want to impress my guests. This year I want to impress them with the ultimate cheese platter or charcuterie board that everyone will love. It only takes minutes to assemble and can be casually arranged onto a clean cutting board. The goal is to aim for simple, fresh and colorful options. Plan on an assortment of 3 cheeses for intimate parties of 4-6 guests. Add bigger portions or a greater assortment for larger parties. Include a variety of flavors and textures from soft to semi-soft to hard cheeses. Below is a list of some of my favorites…although, I haven’t met a cheese that I did not like.
Cheese Suggestions:
Soft: Feta, Brie, Camembert, Chevre, Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Cotija, and Panela
Medium-hard: Swiss, Gouda, Jarlsberg and Cheddar
Hard: Gruyère, Asiago, Parmesan, Romano and Vintage Gouda
Next I like to include savory and sweet extras for a well rounded cheese board. Some examples are as follows:
Savory Extras:
Choose one of the following for smaller gatherings. Add-on more for larger parties. Raw or smoked nuts, Genoa Salami (an all-time favorite of mine), Procutto, Olives or Olive Tapenade, Roasted Red Peppers and/or Artichoke Hearts.
Sweet Extras:
Again, choose one for small parties and more for larger parties. Fresh grapes, figs, dried fruit, dark chocolate (yum!) or my favorite-fig jam
With the addition of some crackers and/or breadsticks I am done. Bon Appétit!
Did someone say cheese for dinner?
Did you say “cheeseboard for one”? I don’t know about you, but sometimes I am quite content savoring a nice glass of wine with cheese and crackers for dinner. For more intimate gatherings of, lets say two, a simpler cheese board with your favorite cheese, bread sticks and grapes can be all you need.
If you are invited to a party and you, like me never show up empty handed…this idea is just too cute to pass up. I love a wood cutting board for arranging an assortment of cheeses, meats, and sweets. This board comes personalized with the hostess’ name and can be left behind as a memorable gift.
Are you entertaining guest or looking for unique recipes, visit my blog for more party planning ideas and tips.
What are some of your favorite traditions during the holiday season? Share them in the comments section below. I would love to hear from you.