Andy Montoya
Nuts and cheese are a perfect pair at any party, especially a wine-tasting party. The crunch of nuts is a tasty contrast to the creaminess of the cheese. When pairing the two, you can either complement or contrast their flavours. For instance, sweet complements salty, so a sweet nut like candied nuts can pair well with a salty cheese like feta. However, be careful not to overpower with too much saltiness. Walnuts, for example, have a drier texture and an earthy flavour that pairs well with aged cheeses like cheddar. On the other hand, pistachios, with their greenish-purple colour and delicious flavour, pair well with creamy, light-coloured cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, feta, and triple crème cheeses. If you're serving nuts and cheese at a party, it's a good idea to label the cheese, as people often like to know what kind they're eating. Also, be sure to check if any of your guests have nut allergies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Nuts | Cashews, Almonds, Pistachios, Walnuts, Marcona Almonds, Honey Roasted Nuts, Honey Smoked Peanuts, Honey Chipotle Cashews, Honey Sweet Cashews, Pecans, Peanuts |
| Type of Cheese | Blue Cheese, Brie, Camembert, Cheddar, Swiss Cheese, Goat Cheese, Gruyere Cheese, Parmesan, Feta, Mozarella, Roquefort, Gorgonzola |
| Type of Platter | Cheese Plate, Cutting Board, Serving Platter, Dinner Plates |
| Other Accompaniments | Fruits, Crackers, Pretzels, Olives, Honey, Wine |
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What You'll Learn
- Choosing the right nuts and cheese: For example, cheddar with almonds, blue cheese with cashews, and walnuts with aged cheeses
- Presentation: Nuts can be sprinkled around a cheese platter or served in small bowls or jars
- Quantity: Consider how much your guests like cheese, and adjust the amount served accordingly
- Pairing with wine: For instance, pinot noir with pecans, and riesling or sparkling whites with spiced nuts
- Allergies: Be mindful of any nut allergies among your guests
Choosing the right nuts and cheese: For example, cheddar with almonds, blue cheese with cashews, and walnuts with aged cheeses
When it comes to choosing the right nuts and cheese for your party, there are some classic combinations that are sure to be a hit. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you select the perfect pairings:
Cheddar with Almonds
Cheddar cheese, known for its sharp and tangy flavour, pairs wonderfully with almonds. The robust flavour of cheddar enhances the natural nuttiness of almonds, resulting in a bold and satisfying combination. Toasted almonds, spiced with smoked paprika or chilli powder, can add an extra kick to the pairing. Alternatively, raw or roasted almonds are a versatile option that goes well with most cheeses. For an elegant twist, try pairing slivered almonds with a soft cheese like Brie. The creamy and mild flavour of Brie creates a beautiful canvas for the subtle sweetness and crunch of almonds, resulting in an elegant and satisfying duo.
Blue Cheese with Cashews
Blue cheese, with its bold and tangy flavour, finds a perfect match in creamy cashews. The smooth and buttery texture of cashews provides a delightful contrast to the pungency of blue cheese. The rich and mildly sweet notes of cashews beautifully mellow out the sharpness of blue cheese, creating a harmonious and indulgent pairing. Cashews are also versatile and pair well with creamy, mild cheeses such as Brie or Camembert, enhancing the smoothness and velvety texture of these soft cheeses.
Walnuts with Aged Cheeses
Walnuts, with their earthy flavour and drier texture, make an excellent garnish for aged cheeses like cheddar. The flavour of walnuts also complements sheep's milk cheeses such as Petite Basque and Pecorino Ginepro. For a unique twist, drizzle honey over walnuts and pair them with blue cheese varieties like Gorgonzola or Roquefort. Walnuts also go well with goat cheese, especially when drizzled with honey, creating a sweeter and milder taste sensation.
Other Nut and Cheese Pairings
In addition to the above, there are several other nut and cheese combinations worth exploring:
- Pistachios pair well with light and zesty cheeses, especially goat cheeses, and also complement Parmesan.
- Macadamia nuts go well with aged cheddar, while peanuts are a good match for Manchego cheese.
- Pecans are a nice addition to semi-soft cheeses like Gouda and can also be paired with Brie for a crunchy and creamy combination.
- For a quick and versatile option, walnuts, almonds, and pecans typically complement a wide range of cheeses.
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Presentation: Nuts can be sprinkled around a cheese platter or served in small bowls or jars
Nuts and cheese are a classic combination, with the crunchy texture of nuts providing a delightful contrast to the creamy smoothness of cheese. When serving nuts with cheese at a party, there are several ways to present them. One way is to sprinkle the nuts around a cheese platter, filling in the gaps between the cheese selections. This not only adds texture but also covers any open spots, creating a visually appealing display. Walnuts, almonds, and pistachios are excellent choices for sprinkling around a cheese platter.
Another option is to serve the nuts in small bowls or containers alongside the cheese platter. This allows your guests to choose their desired amount of nuts and can be especially useful for nuts with shells, like pistachios. If you're serving a cheese dip, you can also mix chopped nuts into the dip and provide a bowl of extra nuts on the side for sprinkling. Small bowls or jars can also be used to offer seasoned or sweetened nuts, such as honey-roasted nuts or spiced nuts. These varieties add a unique flavour dimension to the cheese platter and can be a delightful surprise for your guests.
When creating a cheese platter, it's essential to consider the pairing of nuts with specific cheeses. For example, cashews pair exceptionally well with blue cheese, as their creamy and buttery taste complements the bold and tangy flavours of the cheese. Almonds, on the other hand, are a perfect match for Swiss cheese or harder aged cheeses like cheddar, as their nuttiness enhances the robust flavour of cheddar. If you want to offer a contrast in textures, almonds also pair well with soft cheeses like Brie, providing a crunchy contrast to its creamy texture.
For a more unique pairing, consider combining pistachios with creamy, light-coloured cheeses like ricotta, fresh goat cheese, feta, or triple crème cheeses. The greenish-purple colour of pistachios adds a visually appealing touch to the cheese platter, and their crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of these cheeses. Honey walnuts are another adventurous option, typically paired with goat cheese. The sweetness of the nuts blends wonderfully with the salty, earthy flavour of goat cheese.
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Quantity: Consider how much your guests like cheese, and adjust the amount served accordingly
When planning a party with nuts and cheese, it is important to consider how much your guests like cheese and plan the amount served accordingly. If your guests are cheese enthusiasts, you can plan to serve a larger variety of cheeses and larger quantities. On the other hand, if your guests are not big cheese eaters, you can adjust by serving smaller portions and fewer varieties.
For example, if you are serving a group of cheese lovers, you can offer a selection of different cheeses, such as a sharp cheddar, a creamy Brie, and a tangy blue cheese. You can also provide a variety of nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, each of which pairs well with different cheeses. By offering a range of options, you can create a diverse and interesting spread that will delight your guests.
On the other hand, if your guests are not big fans of cheese, you may want to serve a smaller selection and adjust the quantities accordingly. For example, you could choose one or two types of cheese, such as a mild Swiss cheese or a crowd-pleasing cheddar, and serve a smaller quantity. This way, you can still offer a tasty cheese option without overwhelming your guests with too much cheese.
To further customize the amount of cheese served, you can consider the format of your party. If the cheese is one of the main features of the party, such as a wine and cheese tasting event, you will likely want to plan for a larger quantity. However, if the party has a broader focus and cheese is just one component, you can adjust by serving a smaller amount.
Additionally, the timing of your party can also impact the quantity of cheese served. If your party coincides with a meal time, your guests may have a larger appetite, and you can plan for a more substantial amount of cheese. On the other hand, if your party is in between meal times, your guests may have a smaller appetite, and you can adjust the quantity accordingly.
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Pairing with wine: For instance, pinot noir with pecans, and riesling or sparkling whites with spiced nuts
When it comes to pairing pecans with wine, there are several options to consider. The versatility of pecans is indeed remarkable, as they can be enjoyed in various forms, from salted and caramelized to roasted or raw. The choice of wine depends on the preparation and flavour profile of the pecans.
For raw pecans, sweet whites are an excellent choice. As pecans age, their flavours become more robust, making them a perfect match for dry red wines like Sagrantino, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Primitivo. The tannins in pecans beautifully complement these reds. Toasted pecans, a classic snack, are enhanced by a glass of Amontillado Sherry, known for its dry and nutty characteristics. The wine accentuates the roasted character of the pecans, resulting in an elegant and comforting pairing.
If you're looking for a bubbly option, sparkling wines such as Champagne or Prosecco add a playful touch to the pairing. Their carbonation and zesty notes create a delightful contrast to the richness of pecans. Additionally, pecans and Brie cheese form a harmonious duet, with the creamy texture of Brie merging with the toasted warmth of pecans.
For those who enjoy spiced nuts, including pecans dusted with cinnamon or chilli, a glass of Zinfandel is an ideal match. The spiced pecans enhance the peppery notes in the wine, resulting in a memorable taste sensation. Alternatively, a glass of Gewürztraminer pairs superbly with pecans, as the nut's natural sweetness and buttery texture harmonize with the wine's aromatic intensity. This pairing is especially fitting for an autumnal event, evoking a cosy atmosphere.
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Allergies: Be mindful of any nut allergies among your guests
Nuts are a delicious addition to a cheese platter, but it's important to be mindful of any allergies among your guests. Nut allergies are serious business and can cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Even if your guests don't have a full-blown allergy, they may still experience mild to serious symptoms, so it's always better to be safe than sorry.
If you know that one of your guests has a nut allergy, it's best to avoid serving nuts altogether. You can fill those spaces on your cheese platter with extra fruit or vegetables, crackers, or charcuterie, if your budget allows. It's also a good idea to ask your guests about any allergies beforehand, so you can plan your menu accordingly. This way, you can ensure that everyone will be able to enjoy your party without worrying about allergic reactions.
When it comes to cross-contamination, it's important to be vigilant. Even if you're not serving nuts as a standalone item, they might be present in other dishes or ingredients. Read the labels of any packaged foods carefully, as they are required by law to disclose the presence of tree nuts. Be extra cautious with baked goods, sauces, desserts, and breading, as these often contain tree nuts. If you're serving alcoholic beverages, be aware that some may contain nuts or nut flavorings, although this information might not be readily available on the label.
In addition to food, tree nut oils can be found in lotions, hair care products, and soaps. If any of your guests with nut allergies come into contact with these products, it could trigger a reaction. Encourage your guests to bring their own toiletries if they have specific allergies, or opt for fragrance-free products to accommodate their needs.
Finally, if you're hosting a party, it's a good idea to have an adrenaline injector, such as an EpiPen, on hand in case of an emergency. Make sure you know how to use it, and don't be afraid to call an ambulance if someone is experiencing a severe allergic reaction. Always better to be safe and prepared!
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Frequently asked questions
There are many nut and cheese combinations that you can serve at a party. Here are some ideas:
- Almonds with harder aged cheeses like cheddar or Swiss cheese.
- Walnuts with aged cheeses like cheddar or sheep's milk cheeses like Petite Basque and Pecorino Ginepro.
- Cashews with blue cheese.
- Pistachios with light-coloured creamy cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, feta, or triple crème cheeses.
- Peanuts with honey.
If you're serving a group of self-proclaimed cheese lovers, it's better to stock up on cheese. If you're worried about having too much cheese, cut all of your cheeses in half and only put out half at a time. You can always take the rest out later if needed. If you're worried about not having enough, cut the hard cheeses into extra-small pieces and spread them over different spots on the cheese board. Add plenty of extra fruit, nuts, and crackers to fill up space.
You can serve nuts and cheese in many ways at a party. Here are some ideas:
- On a cheese plate or charcuterie board.
- In a bowl with crackers and pretzels for dipping and spreading.
- In mini jars or pretty cups for easy snacking.
- Mixed with dried fruit, chocolate, and crackers as a trail mix.
- As a garnish for salads with cheese.
