TIPS
Include a variety of textures and flavors
Select cheeses by type of milk (cow, goat, sheep) for a variety of flavors
Remove cheese from the refrigerator an hour before serving
Set out a separate knife for each cheese
Label your cheese and charcuterie selections
YES – you can eat the rind unless there is wax or words
If serving fruit – choose something that does not brown easily or leak
Befriend your store’s cheesemonger, they can help you pick a cheese
How to Build a Cheese Plate
Trust us, building an epic cheese plate isn’t as hard or intimidating as you might think. Just follow this easy cheesy guide and you will surely impress your friends (and yourself).
Choose one (or more) from each category – we’ve included some of our favorites as suggestions:
- Something Hard: Gruyere, Parmesan Reggiano
- Something Soft: Brie, Camembert, Cheddar (make sure you add a little blue cheese like Roquefort)
- Something Cured: Prosciutto, Genoa Salami
- Something Cooked: Roasted Turkey
- Something Jammy: Mango, Chutney, Bacon Jam, Raspberry Preserves
- Something Crunchy: Marcona Almonds, Cashews
- Something Fresh: Grapes, Pear, Figs
- Something Pickled: Beets, Olive, Pickles
- Something Dried: Apricots, Cherries, Dates
- Something Bready: Flat Bread, Crackers, Crostini, Baguette
