A cheese and crackers platter is a delightful snack, appetiser, or party food. But what else goes with cheese and crackers? Well, the options are endless!
First, let's talk about the crackers. While water crackers are a popular choice, there are many other types of crackers that can add variety and flavour to your platter. Try seeded crackers, rye crisps, crispbreads, flatbreads, breadsticks, or even gluten-free crackers.
Now, for the cheese. It's a good idea to include a variety of cheeses with different flavours, textures, and shapes. Go for a mix of hard and soft cheeses, perhaps some blue cheese, and maybe something unusual like a goat's or sheep's milk cheese.
But what else can we add to our platter? Well, how about some charcuterie? Salami, prosciutto, chorizo, and Parma ham are all delicious options. Or, for the vegetarians, some fresh or dried fruit, nuts, olives, pickles, and chutney can add a nice contrast to the cheese. If you want to get creative, you could even add some chocolate or other sweet treats.
And there you have it! A delightful cheese and crackers platter with a variety of tasty accompaniments.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Fruit | Apple, pear, mango, grapes, fig, apricot, raspberry, dates, cranberries, blueberries, blackberries, olives, raisins, sweet potato |
Condiments | Honey, preserves, chutney, pesto, tapenade, jam, marmalade |
Nuts | Pecans, almonds, walnuts, cashews, spiced nuts, candied nuts |
Herbs | Thyme, rosemary, oregano, chives |
Crackers | Water crackers, Ritz crackers, wheat crackers, seeded crackers, rye crackers, crispbread, flatbread, multigrain crackers, graham crackers, baguette slices, pretzel crackers, rye crisps, rosemary crackers, almond flour crackers, butter crackers, everything crackers, honey graham crackers, dark chocolate covered graham crackers |
Drinks | Wine, cider apple cider, pear cider |
What You'll Learn
Meats: Prosciutto, salami, chorizo, coppa, mortadella, and more
Meats are a fantastic addition to any cheese and cracker combination, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Prosciutto
Prosciutto is a dry-cured ham that pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses. Its salty, savoury flavour can be complemented by a mild or creamy cheese, such as mozzarella or brie. For a truly indulgent bite, try wrapping slices of prosciutto around melons or figs before adding them to your cheese board. The sweetness of the fruit will create a delightful contrast to the savoury prosciutto.
Salami
Salami is a cured sausage that comes in many varieties, each with its own unique flavour profile. When pairing salami with cheese, consider a sharp cheddar or a tangy goat cheese. The saltiness of the salami will be balanced by the tanginess of these cheeses, creating a delicious savoury bite. For an extra crunch, serve your salami and cheese on a crispbread cracker or a toasted baguette slice.
Chorizo
Chorizo is a type of pork sausage that is known for its bold, spicy flavour. To complement the spiciness of chorizo, opt for a mild or creamy cheese such as Monterey Jack or havarti. These cheeses will help balance the heat of the chorizo while adding a creamy texture to your bite. For added flavour, pair your chorizo and cheese with a crisp, plain cracker.
Coppa
Coppa is a dry-cured pork shoulder that has a rich, slightly sweet flavour. When pairing coppa with cheese, consider a semi-soft or hard cheese such as Gruyère or aged Gouda. The nuttiness of these cheeses will complement the sweetness of the coppa, creating a well-rounded bite. To enhance the flavour of your coppa, try pairing it with a fruity cracker such as a cranberry hazelnut crispbread.
Mortadella
Mortadella is a type of Italian sausage that is similar to bologna. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavour that pairs well with a variety of cheeses. When pairing mortadella with cheese, consider a semi-soft or hard cheese such as Fontina or Parmesan. The subtle flavour of these cheeses will complement the mortadella without overwhelming it. For added texture and flavour, serve your mortadella and cheese on a seeded cracker.
And More
In addition to the meats mentioned above, there are countless other options to explore. Some other popular choices include pepperoni, sopressata, pancetta, and capicola. When creating your cheese and charcuterie board, feel free to experiment with different types of meats, cheeses, and crackers to find your favourite combinations. Don't be afraid to get creative and add some unique touches to make your spread truly special.
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Fruits: Fresh and dried fruits like apples, grapes, berries, and figs
Fresh and dried fruits are a fantastic addition to a cheese and crackers platter, offering a sweet and savoury contrast. Apples, grapes, and berries are classic choices, but you can also get creative with other fruits like pears, mangoes, and even dried fruits such as figs and dates.
Apples are a popular choice, offering a crisp and juicy bite to complement the cheese and crackers. Sliced apples can be paired with almost any cheese, but they go especially well with buttery cheeses like Brie. For a unique twist, try apple chips, which provide a satisfying apple-y crunch.
Grapes are another well-loved option, adding a burst of sweetness to the savoury crackers and cheese. They are also a convenient choice, as they can be eaten individually or in small bunches.
Berries, such as raspberries, provide a beautiful pop of colour to your platter and are a delicious, healthy option. They pair well with a variety of cheeses, especially milder ones that won't overpower their delicate flavour.
For a more indulgent option, consider dried figs or dates. These sticky, sweet treats are nature's candy and pair beautifully with mild cheeses. Fresh figs, when in season, are also a wonderful choice, but dried figs are a great alternative when fresh ones are not available.
You can also get creative with other fruits like mangoes, pears, and even cranberries. The key is to balance the sweetness of the fruit with the savouriness of the cheese, creating a delightful contrast of flavours.
So, the next time you're assembling a cheese and crackers platter, don't forget to include some fresh or dried fruit! They add a burst of colour, texture, and flavour that will take your platter to the next level.
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Sweet treats: Honey, jams, and chutneys
Honey is a classic pairing with cheese and crackers, and for good reason. Its natural sweetness offsets the saltiness of cheese, creating a delightful contrast of flavours. Drizzle honey over blue cheese or stilton for a decadent treat.
Jams and preserves are another excellent addition to a cheese and cracker spread. Fig jam or preserves are particularly popular, as the sweet and sticky texture pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses, including creamy brie. For a fun twist, try spreading fig jam on a cracker, topping it with a slice of brie, and finishing with a drizzle of honey. Other types of jams, such as apricot, raspberry, or blackberry, can also be paired with a wide range of cheeses for a sweet and savoury combination.
Chutneys are similar to jams but tend to have a tangier, more savoury profile. Cranberry chutney, for instance, pairs well with mild and creamy brie, while fig chutney complements the bold and salty notes of blue cheese. Caramelised onion chutney is another excellent option, providing a sweet and savoury contrast to salty blue cheese or mild camembert.
When creating a cheese and cracker platter, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of honey, jams, and chutneys. You can also offer a variety of crackers, such as plain water crackers or flavoured options like rosemary or herbed crackers, to create a diverse and enticing spread for your guests to enjoy.
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Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and more
Nuts are a fantastic addition to any cheese and cracker combination. Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and other nuts provide a satisfying crunch and a range of flavours that can complement and enhance the taste experience. Here are some tips and suggestions for including nuts in your cheese and cracker creations:
Choosing the Right Nuts
The type of nuts you select can make a significant difference in the overall flavour profile of your cheese and cracker combination. Consider the specific characteristics of different nuts:
- Almonds: Almonds have a sweet and nutty flavour that can complement stronger cheeses. They can be used in various forms, such as sliced, slivered, or chopped.
- Walnuts: Walnuts offer a rich, earthy taste with a slightly bitter edge. They pair well with blue cheese or other strong-flavoured cheeses.
- Pistachios: Pistachios provide a unique, bright green colour and a distinctive flavour. Their slightly salty taste can be a nice contrast to creamy cheeses.
- Pecans: Pecans have a sweet, buttery flavour and a crisp texture. They are versatile and can be paired with a variety of cheeses, from mild to strong.
- Other options: Feel free to experiment with other types of nuts, such as cashews, macadamia nuts, or Brazil nuts, or a mixture of different nuts. Each variety will bring its own unique flavour and texture to the combination.
Preparing the Nuts
The way you prepare and present the nuts can also impact the overall enjoyment of your cheese and cracker creation:
- Raw or roasted: You can use nuts raw or lightly roast them to enhance their flavour and texture. Roasting brings out their natural oils and gives them a crunchier texture.
- Chopped or whole: Consider whether you want to chop or crush the nuts for easier eating or leave them whole for a more substantial bite. Chopped nuts can be sprinkled over the cheese and crackers, while whole nuts can be served on the side or placed on top of the cheese for a decorative touch.
- Seasoning: Experiment with different seasonings on your nuts to enhance their flavour. A light sprinkling of salt or a touch of honey can elevate the taste experience. Spiced nuts, such as barbecue-roasted or chai-spiced varieties, can also be a delicious addition.
Pairing Nuts with Cheese and Crackers
When pairing nuts with cheese and crackers, consider the following suggestions:
- Classic combinations: Some classic pairings include almonds with Manchego cheese and almond flour crackers, or walnuts with blue cheese and honey graham crackers.
- Contrasting textures: Combine crunchy nuts with creamy cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert. The contrast in textures will create an interesting mouthfeel.
- Flavour balance: Use nuts to balance the flavours of the cheese. For example, salty or tangy cheeses can be paired with sweeter nuts like almonds or pecans. Conversely, a mild cheese can be paired with stronger-flavoured nuts, like walnuts or pistachios.
- Presentation: Get creative with your presentation! You can place the nuts on the side, sprinkle them over the cheese, or even crush them and mix them into a cheese spread or dip.
Nuts are a versatile and delicious addition to any cheese and cracker combination. By considering the type of nut, its preparation, and its pairing with specific cheeses and crackers, you can create flavourful and visually appealing snacks that your guests will surely enjoy!
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Extras: Pickles, olives, and marinated vegetables
Pickles, olives, and marinated vegetables are a fantastic way to elevate a simple cheese and crackers platter. These extras add a burst of flavour and a contrasting texture to the classic combination. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Pickles:
- The tangy, savoury farmhouse pickle is a perfect match for sharp Cheddar cheese. It adds a delightful contrast to the sharpness of the Cheddar and is a classic pairing.
- For a unique twist, try pairing gherkins or cornichons with a soft cheese like Brie or Camembert. The crisp, sour notes of the pickles can cut through the richness of the cheese.
Olives:
- Mixed olives, either plain or marinated, are a delicious addition to any cheese and crackers spread. Look for a variety of colours and sizes to make it more interesting.
- Warm rosemary olives are a tasty and colourful pairing for your cheeses. A quick toss in some rosemary and olive oil will elevate this simple snack.
Marinated vegetables:
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are a great option to pair with cheese and crackers. Their intense, sweet flavour can stand up to stronger cheeses.
- Roasted red peppers marinated in olive oil and herbs can also be a delicious addition. Their soft texture and smoky flavour go well with both creamy and hard cheeses.
When adding these extras to your cheese and crackers, consider the balance of flavours and textures. You don't want any one ingredient to overpower the others. Also, think about the visual appeal of your platter. A colourful and varied spread will enhance the overall enjoyment of your guests.
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Frequently asked questions
Water crackers, baguette slices, pita bread, and breadsticks are all great options.
Chutney, jam, honey, and marmalade are all popular choices.
Fresh or dried fruit, such as apples, pears, grapes, and berries, can complement the savoury flavours of cheese.
Olives, nuts, and cured meats like salami or prosciutto are great salty additions to a cheese board.
Breadsticks, crostini, and themed crackers (such as stars or hearts) can add a festive touch to your cheese board.