A Simple Guide to Making a Cheese Plate

by Rob J. Quality Links

Cheese platters remain a popular choice of appetizers. Whether it's an intimate date with your loved one or a special evening party with friends, this course doesn't fail to keep guests excited for what's served next. It's simply delicious and easy to make, and its artful presentation amps up the dinner ambiance. Here's how to prepare it.

Selecting the Cheese

To achieve a range of flavors, the simple course should have at least 3 types of cheese that come from different milk sources such as cows, sheep, and goats. Also, take texture into your selection. If you opt to have 4 kinds, try to include one of each variety: soft, firm, aged, and blue. Here are some examples:

· Soft: Affidelice, Brie, Camembert

· Firm: Manchego, Mimolette, Parmigiano-Reggiano

· Aged: Aged Cheddar, Comte, Gouda

· Blue: Gorgonzola Dolce, Roquefort, Stilton

For the servings, assume that each person eats 2-4 ounces of each cheese.

Displaying the Cheese

Arrange the course in the tray of your choice. You can pick a large wooden one with a rectangular shape or a round slate platter. If you don't have these, you don't have to go out and purchase something new. Simply choose one of your plates or your cutting board; what matters is the food and presentation.

Once you've chosen a platter, carefully unwrap each cheese and chop off its rinds so only one part is left with the outer crust. Then, evenly space them out on the surface and face the uncut side to the center of the plate. This way, guests can easily slice the cheese.

Adding Garnishes

This is where the fun part begins. Complete the plate with delectable garnishes that complement the cheeses' flavors and textures. A no-fail choice is a fresh cluster of grapes. But, if you're looking for other ideas, try fruits that are currently in season and place them in the middle of the platter.

You can also put on other foods to get each type of flavor. Olives, sliced meats, and nuts make savory additions while honey and jam satisfy the sweet palate. Just remember not to overcrowd the plate. To finish the garnishing, add crackers or pieces of sliced baguette.

Serving the Cheese Plate

Note that it's best to serve cheese at room temperature. After taking it out of the fridge, let it set first for half an hour. Also, put out a separate serving knife for each variety. A fork-tipped spear is appropriate for cutting firm cheese while an open work blade knife suits one with a soft texture. Don't forget to provide small plates and napkins for your guests, too.

Serve the cheese platter with a bottle of Chardonnay and your guests will be even more delighted. To offer everyone a wider selection, include Farm Rich appetizers, like finger foods.