Easy, Cheesy Lunch: Perfect Pairings For Cheese And Crackers

Cheese and crackers are a classic combination, but there are endless possibilities for what to serve with them for lunch. The type of cheese and cracker you choose will determine the overall flavour of your pairing, and you can add toppings and sides to elevate your dish.

Sweet and Savoury: dried figs, apricots, chutney or jam

Aged gouda and dried figs are a classic sweet and savoury combination. The sweetness of the figs is a perfect counterpoint to the aged gouda's nutty flavour. For a more dessert-like option, try drizzling honey over the cheese and crackers.

For a similar flavour profile, try substituting the gouda with manchego and the dried figs with dried apricots. The subtle sweetness of the manchego and the dried apricots makes for a delightful pairing. This combination is especially well-suited to a glass of sherry.

If you're looking for something a little more savoury, try a blue cheese with fig chutney. The bold, salty notes of the blue cheese are beautifully complemented by the rich, earthy flavour of fig chutney.

For a more tangy option, try cheddar and piccalilli. The sharpness of the cheddar is enhanced by the tangy and slightly spicy flavours of the piccalilli.

Salty: cured meats, olives, pickles

Salty foods are a great companion to cheese and crackers. Here are some ideas for cured meats, olives, and pickles to elevate your lunch:

Cured Meats

Cured meats are a classic addition to any cheese and cracker spread. The salty, savoury notes of cured meats complement the creaminess of cheese and the crispness of crackers. Here are some specific types of cured meats to consider:

• Salami: A classic, savoury option that pairs well with most cheeses.
• Pastrami: Another delicious choice that can be enjoyed with a variety of cheeses.
• Prosciutto: This salty, thin-sliced ham can add a touch of elegance to your lunch. It pairs well with mozzarella, gouda, or white cheddar.
• Bacon: Try some bacon jam with cheddar and apple for a sweet and savoury combination.
• Ham: Layer sharp cheddar and ham for a classic combination.
• Chèvre: This pairs well with any cured meat, especially those with strong, salty notes.

Olives

Olives add a briny, savoury element to your cheese and crackers. They come in a variety of colours and flavours, so you can find one that suits your taste. Here are some ways to incorporate olives into your lunch:

• Green olive tapenade: Spread this on crackers with cream cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired treat.
• Olive tapenade with crackers, cream cheese, and cured meats: This combination will satisfy anyone craving salty, savoury flavours.
• Olive oil crackers with goat cheese: The salty, tangy flavour of olive oil crackers pairs well with the distinct taste of goat cheese.

Pickles

Pickles add a crunchy, tangy element to your lunch. They can help cut through the richness of cheese and provide a refreshing contrast. Here are some ways to include pickles:

• Pickled watermelon radishes: These add a unique, tangy flavour and are a great vegetarian alternative to cured meats.
• Pickled chipotle peppers: Try these with chèvre and cured meats for a charcuterie-style plate.
• Farmhouse pickle: This tangy, savoury pickle pairs well with cheddar and Gruyère.
• Pickled onions: These add a crisp, tangy flavour and go well with cheddar or gouda.

Spicy: pepper jelly, chilli powder, mustard

If you're looking to add some spice to your cheese and crackers, there are several options to choose from. Here are some ideas to elevate your lunch:

Pepper Jelly

A Southern classic, pepper jelly is a versatile addition to your cheese and crackers. The spicy, sweet, and savoury jelly is a treat for the taste buds. For a festive twist, serve red and green pepper jelly with cream cheese and crackers. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick. If you're making this for a party, add some rosemary sprigs for a festive garnish.

Chilli Powder

For a zesty snack, try making your own sharp cheddar chilli cheese crackers. This combination of sharp cheddar, black pepper, and chilli powder is sure to pack a punch. Simply blend together butter, cheese, and spices, then add flour and water to form a dough. Cut the dough into your desired shape, and bake until golden brown.

Mustard

For a tangy treat, try making mustard cheddar crackers. This adult snack is easy to prepare, and the dough can be frozen for future use. All you need is butter, sharp cheddar, mustard (both dijon and dry), and mustard seeds. Blend the ingredients, form into logs, and chill. Then, cut into thin slices and bake until pale golden.

Fresh: cucumber, dill, basil, chives, tomatoes

There are many ways to incorporate fresh cucumber, dill, basil, chives, and tomatoes into your cheese and crackers for lunch. Here are some ideas:

Cucumber and Herb Cream Cheese Crackers

For a quick and easy option, prepare a cream cheese spread by mixing softened cream cheese with fresh herbs such as dill, chives, and basil. You can also add other ingredients like garlic or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavour. Spread this mixture on crackers and top with thinly sliced cucumbers. This is a refreshing option that's perfect for a warm day.

Smoked Salmon Appetizer Bites

For a more elaborate take, prepare a cream cheese mixture with pesto and layer it on crackers. Then, add smoked salmon, capers, cucumber slices, and a sprig of fresh dill. This combination of flavours and textures will impress your taste buds.

Cucumber Sandwiches

If you're looking for something more substantial, try making cucumber sandwiches. Mix softened cream cheese with herbs like dill and chives, and spread it on your favourite bread. Add sliced cucumbers, and consider sprinkling salt and pepper for an extra kick. You can also add other vegetables like radishes or tomatoes. Cut off the crusts and serve them as tea sandwiches, or keep them on for a heartier lunch.

Tomato and Arugula Salad with Hummus Crackers

For a healthier option, try pairing your cheese and crackers with a refreshing tomato and arugula salad. Slice some fresh tomatoes and mix them with arugula, hummus, and a simple vinaigrette. You can also add other ingredients like cucumbers, red onions, or avocado for a more filling dish.

Customization

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, crackers, and additional toppings to create your own unique combinations. You can also use these ingredients in other dishes like wraps, bagels, or salads for a well-rounded lunch.

Crunchy: nuts, seeds, crackers

Nuts, seeds, and crackers are a great way to add some crunch to your cheese and cracker lunch. Here are some ideas to elevate your midday meal:

Nuts

Nuts are a classic addition to any cheese and cracker spread. Some popular choices include pecans, almonds, and walnuts. You can use candied nuts for an extra touch of sweetness. If you're feeling adventurous, try making your own candied nuts at home. Simply coat your favourite nuts in a mixture of sugar, spices, and a binding agent like egg white, and bake until crispy.

Seeds

Seeds are a great way to add texture and flavour to your lunch. Pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and flax seeds are all excellent options to sprinkle on top of your crackers or to include in a seeded cracker. You can also try making your own seeded crackers at home by adding seeds to your favourite cracker dough recipe.

Crackers

Of course, crackers are the foundation of this lunch. You can choose from a variety of options, including classic butter crackers, water crackers, wheat crackers, or multigrain crackers. For a gluten-free option, look for crackers that are processed in a nut-free facility.

If you want to get creative, consider making your own crackers at home. You can find simple recipes online that use basic ingredients like flour, salt, and water. From there, you can add your choice of seeds, herbs, or spices to create a unique flavour profile.

So, there you have it! By incorporating nuts, seeds, and a variety of crackers, you can take your cheese and cracker lunch to the next level. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions