Summer Sausage And Cheese: Perfect Pairings For A Tasty Treat

Summer sausage and cheese are a classic combination, perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even a main course. While summer sausage is typically made with beef, it can also be made with other meats like pork or venison. Likewise, there are many types of cheese that pair well with summer sausage, such as cheddar, gouda, colby, or pepper jack. When building a charcuterie board with summer sausage and cheese, it's important to include a variety of textures and flavors. In addition to the meat and cheese, crackers, pickled relishes, and condiments can enhance the flavors and provide a well-rounded snacking experience.

Cheese types: gouda, colby, pepper-jack, cheddar, and smoked gouda

When it comes to cheese, there are several types that go well with summer sausage, including gouda, colby, pepper-jack, cheddar, and smoked gouda. Here's a more detailed look at each of these cheese types and why they pair well with summer sausage:

Gouda

Gouda is a mild, creamy, and slightly sweet cheese that pairs nicely with the bold flavour of summer sausage. Young gouda is particularly good, as it allows the sausage to shine. The gouda's crystallisation also creates a nice contrast with the softness of the sausage.

Colby

Colby is a mild and common cheese that is often used on cheese platters and pairs well with summer sausage. It has a similar texture to cheddar but is milder in flavour, making it a good choice for those who want a less sharp taste.

Pepper-Jack

Pepper-jack adds a fiery kick that goes well with the smokiness of summer sausage. The buttery flavour of pepper-jack blends nicely with the boldness of the sausage. However, be sure to choose a pepper-jack that isn't too hot, so it doesn't overwhelm the sausage and spices.

Cheddar

Cheddar, especially sharp cheddar, is an excellent choice to pair with summer sausage. Its salty and tangy flavour adds a nice counterpoint to the richness of the sausage. The sharpness of the cheddar also cuts through the sausage's fattiness. Aged cheddar works especially well.

Smoked Gouda

Smoked gouda is a great choice for a cheese platter, especially when paired with smoked meats and beer. It adds a smoky flavour that complements the summer sausage well. Smoked gouda is a "fancier" cheese that can elevate your platter and impress your guests.

When creating a cheese platter with summer sausage, it's recommended to slice the cheese beforehand to make it easier for your guests to enjoy. You can also offer a variety of cheeses so that your guests can taste different pairings and find their favourites.

Crackers: stone-ground wheat, toasteds, saltines, and water crackers

When creating a cheese platter with summer sausage, it's important to choose crackers with mild flavours that won't overpower the other components. Here are some cracker options that will complement your summer sausage and cheese selection:

Stone-Ground Wheat Crackers

Stone-ground wheat crackers are a fantastic choice for a summer sausage and cheese platter. They have a mild flavour that won't overwhelm the other ingredients, allowing the flavours of the sausage and cheese to shine through. Their coarse texture and nutty taste make them a great pairing with a variety of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar or gouda.

Toasteds Crackers

Toasteds crackers are another excellent option for your platter. They come in a variety of three different types, offering a range of flavours and textures to suit different tastes. Their crispness and light flavour will enhance the heartiness of the summer sausage and cheese without being too overwhelming.

Saltines

Saltines are a classic choice for a reason. These humble crackers provide a neutral base that complements the flavours of summer sausage and cheese without competing with them. They have a satisfyingly crispy texture and a subtle salty taste that won't overpower the other components of your platter.

Water Crackers

Water crackers are known for their light, crisp texture and neutral flavour. They are an excellent choice for a summer sausage and cheese platter as they won't detract from the flavours of the other ingredients. Their simplicity makes them versatile enough to pair with a variety of cheeses, from creamy gouda to sharp cheddar.

When assembling your platter, remember to add condiments and relishes first, followed by the cheese, sausage, and finally, fill in the gaps with your chosen crackers. This will create a visually appealing and well-balanced spread that your guests are sure to enjoy.

Pickles: small dill pickles, pickled okra, and olives

Pickles, such as small dill pickles, pickled okra, and olives, are a great addition to a summer sausage and cheese platter. They add a tangy crunch to the rich, savoury flavours of the sausage and cheese, and their bright colours make the platter look even more appealing.

Small dill pickles are a classic choice for a charcuterie board, and their crisp, sour flavour pairs perfectly with the smokiness of summer sausage and the creaminess of cheese. Pickled okra has a similar tangy flavour and crunchy texture, adding a unique twist to the platter. Olives, on the other hand, offer a more savoury, salty bite, complementing the other flavours on the board.

When creating your platter, it's best to place the condiments and relishes in small bowls or ramekins at each end of the platter. Then, slice your chosen cheeses and fan them out on the platter, followed by the summer sausage. Fill in any remaining spaces with crackers, and your delicious, colourful, and well-balanced platter is ready to serve!

Pickles, okra, and olives provide a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of summer sausage and cheese, making them the perfect addition to elevate your snacking experience.

Drinks: Wisconsin lager and dry red wine

When it comes to drinks, there are a few options that go well with summer sausage and cheese. Here are some suggestions:

Wisconsin Lager

Wisconsin lager is a crisp and refreshing beer that pairs perfectly with the bold and smoky flavours of summer sausage. The lager's clean and crisp flavours help to reset the palate, ensuring you can fully enjoy the taste of the sausage and cheese. If you're looking for a beer to accompany your summer sausage and cheese, this is an excellent choice.

Dry Red Wine

If you prefer wine, a dry red wine can also complement summer sausage and cheese. Look for a wine with good acidity to cut through the richness of the sausage and cheese. A nice Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet, or Sangiovese would be ideal. The tannins and fruitiness of these wines will balance out the fattiness of the sausage and cheese. Alternatively, a glass of sparkling wine or a sweet Riesling could also work well with the spice and saltiness of the sausage.

Remember, when it comes to drinks, it's all about finding what you enjoy. So, feel free to experiment with different options and find the combination that suits your taste preferences!

Meat alternatives: salami, soppressata, or grilled sausage

If you're looking for meat alternatives to summer sausage, there are a few options that will pair well with cheese.

Salami is a great option, as it is a cured meat that has a similar texture and flavour profile to summer sausage. It is also easier to chew when sliced thinly, which makes it a good choice for a charcuterie board or appetizer platter. Another similar option is soppressata, which is another type of Italian cured meat. Like salami, it is flavourful and can be sliced thinly to provide a tasty contrast in texture to the cheese.

If you're looking for a cooked meat option, grilled sausage is always a good choice. Grilled sausage has a different flavour and texture to summer sausage, as it is cooked and typically has a coarser grind. This can provide an interesting contrast to the other components of your platter. Grilled sausage also pairs well with a variety of cheeses, so you can choose a few of your favourites to create a well-rounded and delicious spread.

When creating a meat and cheese platter, it's important to consider the balance of flavours and textures. You'll want to choose cheeses that complement the meats you've selected, and vice versa. For example, a strong, sharp cheddar might pair well with the salami, while a softer, milder cheese like Gouda could complement the grilled sausage. Don't be afraid to experiment and find the combinations that you and your guests enjoy the most!

Frequently asked questions