The Perfect Cheese And Apple Pairing Guide

Apples and cheese are a classic combination of sweet and savoury flavours. The multitude of varieties of both apples and cheese allow for a wide range of flavour combinations, and the balance of tart, light, and sweet that apples bring can help to enhance the flavours of the cheese. There are several recommended apple and cheese pairings, including Gala apples with cheddar or goat cheese, Honeycrisp apples with Gruyere or Roquefort, and Golden Delicious apples with Camembert or Brie.

Gala apples and cheddar

Gala apples are a popular cultivar originating from New Zealand in the 1930s. They are characterised by their striped or mottled orange or reddish appearance and their sweet, fine texture, and aromatic flavour. They are suitable for eating raw, cooking, or making sauces. Cheddar cheese, on the other hand, is a natural choice for pairing with apples due to its sharpness and creamy texture.

When creating a charcuterie board, consider adding Gala apples and cheddar cheese to your selection. The sweetness of the apples will complement the sharpness of the cheddar, creating a delightful contrast of flavours. You can also try adding some walnuts, honey, and rosemary to enhance the flavour profile and make it even more enjoyable.

If you're feeling creative, try making an apple cheddar grilled cheese sandwich. Simply layer sliced Gala apples with cheddar cheese between two slices of bread (sourdough or whole wheat work well) and grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. This combination of sweet apples and sharp cheddar is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

For a healthier option, you can also try making an apple cheddar quesadilla. Use a whole wheat tortilla and add sliced Gala apples, shredded cheddar cheese, and your favourite toppings. Grill it until the tortilla is toasted and the cheese is melted. Serve it with a side of salsa or guacamole for a delicious and nutritious snack.

Honeycrisp apples and gruyere

When it comes to wine, a Chardonnay is the ideal choice to complete this trio. The buttery and sweet notes of a Chardonnay complement the sweetness of the Honeycrisp apples and the creaminess of the Gruyere cheese. This combination of Honeycrisp apples, Gruyere cheese, and Chardonnay wine is a harmonious blend of sweet and savoury, making it a delightful option for any palate.

For a charcuterie board or a snack, Honeycrisp apples and Gruyere cheese are a perfect pair. The sweetness of the apples and the creaminess of the cheese create a delightful contrast that is both refreshing and indulgent. This pairing is a wonderful way to showcase the versatility of apples and cheese, offering a beautiful balance of flavours that is sure to impress.

To elevate this pairing, consider serving the Honeycrisp apples with a squeeze of lemon to prevent discolouration and enhance their refreshing flavour. Additionally, the right presentation can make all the difference. Try slicing the apples thinly and arranging them artfully on a platter alongside the Gruyere, creating an inviting display that is sure to tempt anyone's taste buds.

Whether enjoyed as a snack, an appetiser, or as part of a larger spread, the combination of Honeycrisp apples and Gruyere cheese is a delightful choice that showcases the best of both sweet and savoury flavours.

Red Delicious apples and provolone

When creating a cheese platter or charcuterie board, consider adding some Red Delicious apples to pair with provolone. This combination will impress your guests or family members with its harmonious flavours. The crispness of the apple also adds a refreshing texture to the creamy provolone.

To enhance the experience further, you can try slicing the Red Delicious apples thinly and serving them alongside provolone cubes or slices. The contrast between the crisp apple and the creamy cheese will create an interesting sensory experience. Additionally, the natural sweetness of the apple will balance the savoury notes of the provolone, making each bite a delightful combination of flavours and textures.

For a more creative presentation, you can also try making apple wedges and provolone skewers. Alternating apple wedges and provolone cubes on a skewer will not only look appealing but also provide a fun and convenient way to enjoy this delicious pairing. This option is especially great when serving these as appetizers or snacks at parties or get-togethers.

Although Red Delicious apples and provolone are a fantastic match, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese as well. Red Delicious apples are quite versatile and can also pair well with cheeses such as cheddar, Camembert, or even blue cheese, offering a range of flavour profiles to explore.

Granny Smith apples and blue cheese

For a simple yet delicious salad, combine thinly sliced Granny Smith apples with blue cheese crumbles, candied pecans or walnuts, and red onion. Add a leafy green base like romaine lettuce and a balsamic vinaigrette or blue cheese dressing for a sweet and savoury dish that's both healthy and satisfying. This salad is best served fresh, so avoid making it too far in advance to ensure the ingredients stay crisp and tasty.

If you're looking for a more indulgent treat, try a Granny Smith apple and blue cheese crostini. Top a bagel or a slice of French bread with thin apple slices, a generous helping of blue cheese, and a drizzle of honey. For an extra crunch, sprinkle on some toasted walnuts or pecans.

To elevate your cheese and apple experience even further, consider adding a glass of medium-bodied, fruity red wine like Merlot. The added sweetness of the wine will complement the sharpness of the blue cheese, making it an ideal pairing for those who find Granny Smith apples a little too sour on their own.

So, the next time you're looking for a unique snack or appetizer, give Granny Smith apples and blue cheese a try. With their contrasting flavours and textures, this dynamic duo is sure to impress and delight your taste buds.

Fuji apples and gorgonzola

Apples and cheese are a delightful combination of sweet and savoury flavours. Fuji apples, in particular, pair well with gorgonzola cheese. Here are some ideas for how to serve this combination:

Salads

A popular way to enjoy the duo is in a salad. You can add other ingredients such as greens, walnuts, cherry tomatoes, pepitas, grilled chicken, and a vinaigrette dressing. To prepare the apples, slice or chop them into bite-sized pieces. For the gorgonzola, crumble the cheese over the salad to enhance the flavour and freshness.

Charcuterie Board

For a simple yet elegant option, arrange sliced Fuji apples and gorgonzola on a charcuterie board. This allows the flavours of the apples and cheese to shine. You can also add other complementary foods such as crackers or bread.

Apple and Cheese Crostini

For a more substantial dish, try making crostini with Fuji apples and gorgonzola. Slice a baguette into thin pieces, toast them, and top with sliced apples and crumbled gorgonzola. You can also add other ingredients such as honey or walnuts for extra flavour and texture.

Apple and Cheese Sandwich

Another option for a heartier meal is to make a sandwich with Fuji apples and gorgonzola. Layer sliced apples and crumbled gorgonzola on bread, and add other ingredients such as greens, chicken, or avocado. You can toast the sandwich or enjoy it cold.

Baked Goods

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and add other ingredients to create your own unique dishes!

Frequently asked questions