Cheese Cubes: The Perfect Pairing Ideas For Your Platter

Cheese cubes are a versatile snack or ingredient that can be paired with a variety of foods. They can be enjoyed on their own, perhaps with a sprinkling of mustard powder, or wrapped in meat such as prosciutto or pepperoni. For a sweet and salty combination, try pairing cheese cubes with fruit such as apples, apricots, or grapes. If you're looking for a more substantial meal, cheese cubes can be added to salads, kebabs, or even baked goods like pumpkin buns. With so many options, the possibilities for enjoying cheese cubes are endless.

Wrap cheese cubes in prosciutto or cured pork

Wrapping cheese cubes in prosciutto or cured pork is a delicious way to elevate this snack. Prosciutto, a dry-cured ham, pairs wonderfully with cheese, especially a sharp cheddar. The saltiness of the prosciutto balances the creamy, sharp flavour of the cheese. This combination is a classic for a reason!

To make this snack, start by allowing your prosciutto to come to room temperature. This will make it easier to work with and prevent it from tearing. You can also use other types of cured pork, such as salami or pepperoni, if you prefer. Cut the prosciutto into slices wide enough to wrap around your cheese cubes.

Next, take your cheese cubes. You can use a variety of cheeses, but a sharp cheddar is a popular choice. If you want to get creative, try using different types of cheese, such as Colby, Pepper Jack, or Gouda. Play around with different combinations of cheese and cured pork to find your favourite pairing!

Now, simply wrap the prosciutto slices around the cheese cubes. You can secure the prosciutto with a toothpick, if needed. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey before wrapping the cheese for an extra burst of flavour.

This snack is best served fresh, so enjoy your wrapped cheese cubes as soon as they're prepared. They make a great appetiser or party snack, and you can serve them with crackers, olives, or sliced apples on the side. Enjoy the delicious combination of creamy cheese and salty, savoury prosciutto!

Pair with crackers, pepperoni, or salami

When it comes to pairing cheese cubes with crackers, pepperoni, or salami, there are endless possibilities to create a delicious snack or appetiser. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Crackers

The classic combination of cheese and crackers is always a good option. For a simple yet satisfying pairing, try sharp cheddar cheese cubes with Carr’s original crackers. The crispness and subtle flavour of the crackers provide the perfect base for the bold, creamy cheddar. You can also experiment with different types of crackers, such as wheat or rice crackers, to add variety in texture and taste.

Pepperoni

For a savoury delight, pair cheese cubes with pepperoni slices. The salty, spicy notes of pepperoni complement the creaminess of the cheese. Try wrapping pepperoni slices around Cheddar or Colby jack cheese cubes for a tasty bite-sized treat. You can also add some green olives or roasted red peppers on the side for a burst of flavour.

Salami

Salami is another excellent choice to pair with cheese cubes. Go for a classic salami and cheese combination, or get creative by adding some green apples and cornichons to the mix. The tartness of the apples and the crisp, tangy cornichons will cut through the richness of the salami and cheese. This combination is perfect for a charcuterie board or an elegant appetiser.

Creative Combinations

Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese cubes and additional ingredients. Try wrapping prosciutto around cheddar cheese cubes for a decadent treat. Add some red grapes or dried apricots for a touch of sweetness that balances the salty flavours. You can also try pairing cheese cubes with other cured meats, such as pepperoni sticks or salami slices, for a heartier snack.

Remember, the key to a successful pairing is to find a balance of flavours and textures that enhance each other. So, whether you're snacking on cheese cubes solo or creating a charcuterie board for guests, feel free to mix and match different options to discover your favourite combinations.

Add something sweet like grapes, apples, or dried apricots

When thinking about what to serve with cheese cubes, it's a good idea to consider adding something sweet to balance out the salty, sharp flavour of the cheese. Grapes are a classic pairing with cheese, and they also add a burst of freshness to the rich, creamy flavour of the cheese. Red grapes, in particular, are a great choice to accompany cheddar cheese cubes. Their sweetness can help to balance out the sharpness of the cheddar.

Similarly, sliced apples can also provide a refreshing contrast to the savoury flavour of cheese cubes. The crispness and juiciness of the apple can also add a nice textural element to the dish. When choosing apples to pair with cheese, consider going for a sweeter variety such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Red Delicious. These apple varieties will complement the cheese without overwhelming its flavour.

For those who want to explore beyond fresh fruit, dried apricots can be a wonderful addition to cheese cubes. Their intense sweetness and chewy texture make them a delightful contrast to the salty, creamy cheese. The tartness of dried apricots can also help to cut through the richness of the cheese, making each bite feel indulgent yet refreshing.

When serving cheese cubes with something sweet, it's important to consider the presentation as well. For a simple yet elegant approach, arrange the cheese cubes and fruit on a platter or wooden board, adding some crackers or bread on the side. This way, your guests can easily pick and choose their favourite combinations, creating their own perfect bite.

By adding something sweet like grapes, apples, or dried apricots, you can elevate the flavour and presentation of cheese cubes, creating a delightful snack or appetiser that your guests are sure to enjoy.

Dust with mustard powder or dip in cocktail sauce

Mustard powder and cocktail sauce are both great accompaniments to cheese cubes, especially sharp cheddar.

Mustard Powder

Mustard powder is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways with cheese cubes. One option is to dust the cheese cubes lightly with mustard powder, adding a tangy flavour that cuts through the richness of the cheese. This method is simple and direct, and the powder will cling to the cubes with no additional preparation needed.

Another option is to create a mustard cheese sauce, which can be used as a dip for the cheese cubes. This sauce is made by creating a roux with butter and flour, adding milk, and then mixing in shredded cheese, dry mustard, and garlic powder. This sauce can also be used on a variety of other dishes, such as steamed broccoli and grilled chicken.

Cocktail Sauce

Cocktail sauce is another popular choice for a cheese cube dip. This tangy, spicy sauce is traditionally served with seafood but also pairs well with cheese. It is often made with ingredients such as ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, creating a unique flavour profile that complements the cheese.

Other Options

While mustard powder and cocktail sauce are great choices, there are also other sauces and dips that can be paired with cheese cubes. Some options include ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, marinara sauce, and buffalo sauce. Additionally, wrapping the cheese cubes in meat, such as prosciutto or pepperoni, or pairing them with something sweet, like grapes or apple slices, can create a delicious flavour combination.

Serve with olives, roasted red pepper, or pickled jalapeños

Olives, roasted red peppers, and pickled jalapeños are all delicious companions to cheese cubes. This trio of ingredients adds a burst of flavour and colour to any dish featuring cheese cubes.

Olives, with their briny, savoury taste, are a classic pairing with cheese. Green olives, in particular, offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of cheese cubes. Whether you opt for pitted or stuffed olives, they provide a pleasant texture and a tangy flavour that complements the creaminess of the cheese.

Roasted red peppers bring a touch of sweetness and a subtle smoky flavour to the plate. Their soft, juicy flesh creates an interesting contrast in texture when paired with the firm, dense cheese cubes. The vibrant red colour of the peppers also adds visual appeal to your dish.

Pickled jalapeños contribute a crunchy texture and a spicy kick to the mildness of the cheese. The sourness and heat from the jalapeños create a delightful flavour combination, especially when paired with a sharper, more pungent cheese cube variety.

When serving cheese cubes with olives, roasted red peppers, or pickled jalapeños, consider adding some charcuterie elements, such as prosciutto, salami, or pepperoni. These meats will enhance the savoury flavours and provide a hearty element to your dish. You can also offer crackers or pita bread on the side to provide a crunchy base for your guests to create tasty bites.

Additionally, fresh or dried fruit can add a delightful sweet contrast to the savoury notes of the cheese, olives, peppers, and jalapeños. Consider offering grapes, apple slices, or dried apricots to round out the flavour profile and create a well-balanced and enticing platter.

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