Frederic Melton
When serving a cheese platter, the amount of cheese to serve depends on the occasion and the number of guests. A typical serving size per person ranges from 1-2 oz for hors d'oeuvres and 3-6 oz if the cheese platter is the main meal. If serving a cheese platter as an appetizer, plan for 2-3 oz of cheese per person, and if serving it as a main course, plan for 4-5 oz or 7-8 oz per person. It is recommended to offer a variety of 3-6 different types of cheese on a platter, depending on the occasion and the number of guests. It is also important to consider accompaniments such as crackers, bread, meats, fruits, and vegetables to pair with the cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of cheeses | 3-6 |
| Amount per person | 1-8 oz |
| Bread | Plain (sourdough or French) |
| Bread | Breads containing walnuts, dried fruit or olives |
| Accompaniments | Olives, prosciutto, nuts, chutney, jams, honey, dried fruit, and toasted nuts |
| Knife | A different knife for each cheese |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right amount of cheese
When creating a cheese platter, the amount of cheese to serve depends on the occasion and the number of people. If you are serving cheese as an appetiser, 2-3 ounces of cheese per person is recommended. If you are serving a lot of accompaniments, like charcuterie, crackers, and fruit, your guests will likely eat less cheese. If you are serving fewer accompaniments, expect your guests to eat more cheese.
If you are serving a cheese plate for dinner, plan for 4-6 ounces of cheese per person. If you are serving cheese at non-peak times, such as brunch or afternoon tea, 3 ounces of cheese per person is sufficient. If your guests are not big cheese eaters, you will need less cheese, and if you are hosting a group of cheese enthusiasts, you may want to stock up! It is always better to have a little extra cheese in the fridge, which can be brought out later if needed.
When serving cheese, it is important not to overcrowd your platter. It is recommended to offer a different knife for each cheese, as using the same knife for multiple cheeses will cause them to taste similar. Serve slices of baguette or crackers separately, and choose plain varieties, as flavoured breads and crackers can overwhelm the flavour of the cheese. However, breads containing walnuts, dried fruit, or olives pair well with cheese.
The number of cheese varieties you can serve also depends on the number of people. If you are serving cheese before dinner, choose lighter cheeses such as herb-coated goat cheese or fresh mozzarella. If you are serving a small group, one great cheese may be enough to satisfy your guests. However, if cheese is the centerpiece of your party, it is recommended to serve at least three, and probably five or six cheeses.
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Selecting complementary accompaniments
When creating a cheese platter, selecting complementary accompaniments is essential to elevate the flavours of the cheeses and enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect pairings:
Firstly, consider the type of cheese you'll be serving. Lighter cheeses such as goat cheese or mozzarella are ideal for before-dinner servings, while stronger, more pungent cheeses like Blue Cheese or aged varieties are better suited for after-dinner enjoyment.
Secondly, choose accompaniments that complement the flavour profile of your cheeses. For before-dinner cheeses, opt for savoury pairings such as olives, prosciutto, nuts, or chutney. These flavours will contrast nicely with the lighter cheeses, adding interest and depth to the platter. On the other hand, after-dinner cheeses pair well with sweeter items like jams, honey, dried fruit, and toasted nuts. The sweetness of these accompaniments will balance the stronger flavours of the cheeses.
Bread and crackers are essential components of a cheese platter, providing a base for your guests to enjoy the cheeses. It's best to choose plain varieties such as sourdough or French bread, as flavoured breads can sometimes overwhelm the delicate flavours of the cheese. However, breads containing walnuts, dried fruit, or olives are an exception as they pair exceptionally well with cheese. Offer a variety of cracker options to add interest and texture to the platter. Look for crackers that include nuts, seeds, or whole grains, such as Raincoast Crisps, for a contrasting crunch.
Lastly, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with unique pairings. Consider the overall flavour profile of your event. For a more sophisticated gathering, opt for a higher-end cheese palette that includes exotic varieties like brie, gorgonzola, or manchego. If cost is a factor, traditional cheeses are usually more budget-friendly, but if you're willing to splurge, rare cheeses can make for an indulgent treat. Remember, there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to cheese, so feel free to explore different combinations to find your favourite pairings.
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Choosing a suitable base
The base of a cheese platter is important, as it serves as the foundation for the cheeses and other accompaniments. Here are some tips for choosing a suitable base:
Firstly, consider the size of your gathering. If you are hosting a large group, opt for a larger base such as a wooden cutting board, a large serving platter, or a tray. This will ensure you have enough space for all the cheeses and accompaniments. If it's a smaller group, a simple large dinner plate or a few smaller plates can work well.
Secondly, think about the variety of cheeses and accompaniments you plan to serve. If you are offering a wide range of cheeses with different textures and flavours, consider using a base that has a neutral colour and pattern. This will allow the cheeses to stand out and make it easier for your guests to distinguish between the different options. A plain wooden cutting board or a simple white platter can be excellent choices. On the other hand, if you are serving a more limited selection, you could choose a base with a bit more character, such as a marble slab or a slate board, which can add a touch of elegance to your presentation.
Thirdly, don't forget about functionality. The base should be easy to carry and manoeuvre, especially if you are serving the cheese platter family-style on a table. Look for a base with a comfortable handle or grip. Additionally, consider the ease of cleaning, especially if you plan to use the base regularly. Wooden bases, for example, can be more high-maintenance than a simple glass or ceramic plate, as they require oiling to prevent cracking and staining.
Lastly, consider the overall aesthetic of your cheese platter. The base you choose can enhance the visual appeal of the platter. For a rustic or farmhouse vibe, a wooden cutting board or a woven platter can be a great choice. For a more modern or elegant look, a sleek marble or glass base can be stunning. If it's a festive occasion, you might opt for a base with a bit of sparkle or a colourful pattern to make it more playful.
Remember, the base of your cheese platter is just the beginning. The cheeses, accompaniments, and garnishes you choose will also play a significant role in creating a delicious and visually appealing spread.
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Presentation and arrangement
When it comes to presenting and arranging a cheese platter, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential not to overcrowd the platter. Allow each cheese to have its own space, and provide a separate knife for each type of cheese to prevent the flavours from mixing. You can plate the cheeses individually, which is especially convenient for after-dinner cheese courses, or arrange them on a single platter or board.
A wooden cutting board or a large serving platter are ideal bases for a cheese platter, but even a simple tray or baking sheet covered with parchment paper can work. If you don't have a set of cheese knives, butter knives, cocktail forks, cocktail picks, or toothpicks can be offered instead.
The amount of cheese served per person can vary depending on the occasion and the time of day. As a general rule, caterers recommend 1-2 ounces of cheese per serving for hors d'oeuvres and 3-6 ounces if the cheese platter is the main meal. At lunch and dinner, when guests tend to be hungrier, aim for 6 ounces per person. For non-traditional meal times, such as brunch or afternoon snacks, 3 ounces per person is sufficient. If the cheese platter is being served as dessert, 1.5-2 ounces per person is recommended, as guests are likely to be quite full from the previous courses.
In addition to the cheese, it is important to offer a variety of accompaniments. Neutral crackers or plain bread, such as sourdough or French bread, are excellent choices to pair with cheese. However, if you want to add some extra flavour, consider breads containing walnuts, dried fruit, or olives. For a dynamic presentation, offer more than one kind of cracker or crostini, varying the size, shape, and texture. For example, you could serve round crackers alongside long cracker sticks, or pita chips with crostini. Crackers containing nuts, seeds, or whole grains can add interest and variety to your platter.
To elevate your cheese platter, include some seasonal touches. In the winter, add some citrus fruits like mandarins, Cara Cara oranges, or pomegranate. For a festive touch, include cranberry sauce and fresh rosemary sprigs. Nuts such as pecans, walnuts, almonds, and pistachios are always a welcome addition, and toasting them beforehand adds extra flavour. Don't forget to provide some savoury accompaniments as well, such as olives, prosciutto, nuts, or chutney for before-dinner cheese, and jams, honey, dried fruit, and toasted nuts for after-dinner cheese.
When selecting your cheeses, there are a few guidelines to consider. If serving cheese before dinner, opt for lighter varieties like herb-coated goat cheese or fresh mozzarella. If cost is a concern, stick to more traditional cheeses, but if you're willing to splurge, go for rarer, more expensive options. You can also tailor your cheese selection to the flavour profile of the event. For a Super Bowl party, traditional cheese varieties are a safe bet, while a high-end cuisine event calls for a more upscale cheese selection.
Finally, remember that the visual appeal of your cheese platter is essential. Mix and match different flavours, colours, shapes, and textures to create an enticing spread. If you're feeling creative, include a cheese that most of your guests might normally avoid, like Danish Blue or a washed-rind variety, to add a unique twist to your platter.
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The occasion and guest preferences
The occasion and the preferences of your guests are key factors to consider when preparing a cheese platter. The amount of cheese you'll need depends on whether the platter is meant to be an appetiser, a dessert, or the main course.
If you're serving cheese as an appetiser, plan to have 2-3 ounces of cheese per person. If you're serving a lot of accompaniments (like charcuterie, crackers, and fruit) alongside the cheese, people will eat a little less cheese. If you're offering fewer accompaniments, expect your guests to eat a little more cheese.
If the cheese platter is the main course, calculate 3-6 ounces of cheese per person, depending on the time of day. People tend to be hungrier at lunchtime and dinnertime, so 6 ounces of cheese per serving should be enough food. If you're serving the main course at non-traditional meal times, like brunch or in the afternoon, people will likely eat less. In this case, the recommended range starts at 3 ounces per person.
For dessert, caterers recommend 1-2 ounces of cheese per serving. By this point, your guests will likely be quite full from the first two courses.
The type of event you're hosting can also influence your cheese choices. For example, if you're hosting a Super Bowl party, you might stick to traditional cheese varieties. However, if you're cooking high-end cuisine, you might opt for a higher-end cheese selection. If cost is a concern, traditional cheeses tend to be more affordable, whereas rare cheeses can be more expensive.
If you're unsure about how much cheese to prepare, it's always a good idea to have a little extra in the fridge, just in case you need to replenish the platter.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to serve 3-6 oz of cheese per person if the cheese platter is the main meal. If it is served at non-peak hours (brunch or afternoon), 3 oz of cheese per person is enough. For appetisers, 1-2 oz of cheese per person is recommended.
It is recommended to serve at least three types of cheese and probably five or six if the cheese platter is the main attraction.
The type of cheese to serve depends on the occasion. For a more traditional dining experience, a soufflé or baked double crème is recommended. If you want to add a twist to your dinner party, you can serve a Danish Blue or a cheese with a washed rind. If you are serving a cheese platter for a Super Bowl party, it is best to stick to traditional cheese varieties.
You can use a nice wooden cutting board, a large serving platter, or a tray or baking sheet covered with parchment paper.
You can serve the cheese with a variety of garnishes, bread, crackers, meats, and fruits or vegetables. It is recommended to serve plain bread (sourdough or French) or neutral crackers to avoid overwhelming the flavours of the cheese.
