Kamil Perry
Cheese and crackers are a classic combination, but what else can you serve with them? A cheese board is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any occasion, whether it's a holiday gathering, a cocktail party, or a small dinner with friends. While there's nothing wrong with the classic combination of cheese, crackers, and grapes, there are plenty of other options to consider. When assembling a cheese board, it's a good idea to choose a variety of cheeses with different flavors and textures, such as firm, soft, or spreadable cheeses. In addition to crackers, you can also offer breads such as a crusty baguette, warm pita, or naan flatbread. For something sweeter, try dried apricots, apple chips, or fresh or dried figs. If you're looking for something salty, olives, cornichons, or spiced nuts are a great option. To add a pop of color, include some seasonal fruit like apples, pears, or grapes, and don't forget to take the cheeses out of the refrigerator at least 45 minutes before serving to bring them to room temperature.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheeses | Aged white cheddar, Gouda, Edam, Gruyère, Dubliner, Manchego, Brie, Camembert, soft goat cheese, Gorgonzola, Stilton, Roquefort, Asiago Tarragon, blue cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano, Comte', jack cheese, feta, cream cheese |
| Crackers | Shortbread crackers, breadsticks, pita bread, naan flatbread, baguette |
| Fruits | Apples, grapes, pears, raspberries, dates, figs, dried apricots, apple chips, olives |
| Nuts | Almonds, pecans, spiced nuts, candied nuts, crispy chickpeas |
| Condiments | Pesto, mixed olive tapenade, apricot jam, marmalade, honey |
| Meats | Prosciutto, salami, prosciutto di Parma |
| Extras | Hummus, cornichons, herbs (rosemary, thyme), olive oil, salt |
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What You'll Learn
Meats: Prosciutto, salami, prosciutto di Parma
When creating a charcuterie board with meats such as prosciutto, salami, and prosciutto di Parma, it's important to consider the balance of flavours and textures. Charcuterie boards are all about variety, so be sure to include a mix of cheeses, crackers, fruits, nuts, and other accompaniments that complement your chosen meats.
Prosciutto, salami, and prosciutto di Parma are all types of cured meats that can add a savoury, salty flavour to your charcuterie board. These meats go well with a variety of cheeses, especially sharp cheeses like Parmesan, Gruyère, and cheddar. For example, the nutty flavour of Gruyère pairs well with salami. You can also fold thin meats like prosciutto into light and airy ribbons to add texture and visual appeal to your board.
To enhance the flavour of your meats and create a well-rounded charcuterie board, consider adding some sweet and savoury accompaniments. Fresh or dried figs, dates, and apricots can provide a sweet contrast to the savoury meats. Warm Marcona almonds, candied pecans, and spiced nuts will also add crunch and flavour to your board.
In terms of crackers, a variety of options such as mini toasts, pita crackers, and croccantini crackers can provide a neutral base for your meats and cheeses. Don't forget to fill in any gaps on your board with crackers, nuts, or dried fruit!
Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of flavours and textures. Charcuterie board creation is a fun and creative process, so feel free to mix and match items that taste good together. For instance, you might pair prosciutto with fig butter, brie, or baguette slices. By combining high-quality ingredients that complement each other, you can create a delicious and picture-worthy charcuterie board.
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Fruits: Apples, grapes, pears, raspberries
When it comes to creating a cheese board, it's important to have a variety of flavors and textures. While cheese and crackers are a classic combination, adding fruits, such as apples, grapes, pears, and raspberries, can take your cheese board to the next level.
Apples are a traditional pairing with cheese and crackers. Sliced apples add a refreshing crunch and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory notes of the cheese. They are a versatile fruit that pairs well with a variety of cheeses, making them a popular choice for cheese boards.
Grapes are another well-known companion to cheese. Their juicy sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the saltiness of crackers and the richness of cheese. They add a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your platter.
Pears offer a juicy and refreshing alternative to apples. Their sweet and subtle flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses. Sliced pears can be elegantly arranged on your cheese board, adding a touch of sophistication to your spread.
Raspberries, though less conventional, make an excellent addition to a cheese board. They provide a burst of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. Not only do they taste delicious alongside cheese and crackers, but they also serve as a pretty decoration for your tray.
When creating your cheese board, feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of cheeses, fruits, crackers, and other accompaniments. You can also add some condiments, such as honey, jam, or tapenade, to enhance the flavors and provide a variety of textures. Remember to wash and slice your fruits ahead of time and arrange them artfully on your platter, creating a delightful sensory experience for your guests.
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Nuts: Almonds, pecans, candied nuts
Nuts are a fantastic addition to any cheese and cracker combination. Almonds, pecans, and candied nuts each bring something unique to the table, enhancing the flavours and textures of the classic cheese and crackers.
Almonds have a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with sharp cheeses. Almond flour cheese crackers, for instance, are a delicious, low-carb option that can be made with extra sharp cheddar for a flavourful bite. The nutty flavour of the almond flour adds depth to the cracker, creating a more complex flavour profile that complements the cheese.
Pecans, on the other hand, offer a rich, buttery flavour and a slightly softer texture compared to other nuts. They are often used in cheese cracker recipes, where a pecan half is pressed into each cracker before baking, adding a savoury element to the mix. The combination of cheese and pecans creates a harmonious blend of flavours and a delightful mouthfeel.
Candied nuts bring a whole new dimension to the cheese and cracker experience. The sweetness of the candy coating contrasts beautifully with the savoury notes of the cheese and crackers. The candy coating can also add a crunchy texture, creating an interesting play of flavours and textures in each bite. Whether you choose to use candied pecans, almonds, or a mix of nuts, the addition of candy coating elevates the classic combination, making it even more indulgent and memorable.
When serving nuts with cheese and crackers, it is essential to consider the type of cheese and cracker being used. Harder cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère tend to pair well with the crunchier texture of nuts, while softer cheeses like Brie or Camembert may benefit from the contrast of a candied nut. Flavour-wise, the sharpness of a cheddar pairs well with the sweetness of candied nuts, while a more subtle cheese can be enhanced by the stronger flavours of almonds or pecans.
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Condiments: Honey, jam, pesto, tapenade
When it comes to cheese and crackers, there are endless possibilities for condiments to elevate your snack. Honey, for example, is a wonderful pairing with blue cheese or stilton. Drizzle it over the cheese for a divine combination.
Jam is another condiment that complements cheese and crackers. Apricot jam is a great option, but you can also choose from a variety of other jams such as raspberry, blueberry, or blackberry to suit your taste. For a hint of citrus, orange marmalade is a fantastic choice that pairs well with many cheeses.
Pesto is an excellent choice to spread on a baguette slice, especially when topped with a mild or medium-flavoured cheese. It adds a burst of flavour to your cheese and crackers.
Tapenade, specifically a mixed olive tapenade, is another condiment that can be easily store-bought or homemade. It provides a spreadable olive option that is sure to impress.
These condiments offer a range of sweet and savoury options to enhance your cheese and cracker experience. Whether you choose to drizzle, spread, or top, these additions will surely delight your taste buds and impress your guests!
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Breads: Baguette, pita, naan, breadsticks
Bread is a great alternative to crackers and can be a delicious addition to a cheese board. Here are some ideas for the best types of bread to serve with cheese and crackers:
Baguette
A crusty baguette is a classic choice to serve with cheese. Its crunchy texture and airy interior make it perfect for pairing with creamy cheeses like Brie. Simply slice the baguette and top with a spreadable cheese, or enjoy it on the side for dipping.
Pita
Warm pita bread is another excellent option. Popping pitas in the oven for a minute or two and then cutting them into triangles creates a perfect base for your cheeses. Pita bread has a slightly chewy texture and a mild flavour that won't overpower your cheese selections.
Naan
Naan flatbread, with its soft and chewy texture, is a delightful addition to any cheese board. Look for Naan in the deli section of your grocery store. Tear it into rustic pieces and use it as a base for your favourite cheeses. Naan's subtle flavour complements both mild and strong cheeses.
Breadsticks
Breadsticks add a fun and crispy element to your cheese and cracker spread. They can be beautifully presented in a glass jar or tall drinking glass. Breadsticks provide a crunchy texture and are perfect for dipping into soft cheeses or enjoying alongside harder cheeses.
When creating a cheese board, it's essential to consider a balance of flavours and textures. Breads can provide a heartier base for your cheeses and are a great way to elevate your charcuterie experience. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of bread and cheeses to find your favourite combinations!
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Frequently asked questions
Some alternatives to crackers to serve with cheese include:
- Breads, such as crusty baguette, warm pita, naan flatbread, or breadsticks
- Nuts, such as warm Marcona almonds, candied pecans, or spiced nuts
- Fruits, such as apples, grapes, pears, fresh raspberries, or dried apricots
Some good toppings to serve with cheese and crackers include:
- Condiments such as pesto, mixed olive tapenade, apricot jam, marmalade, or honey
- Meats such as prosciutto, salami, or Italian cured meats
- Olives
- Hummus
The amount of cheese served with crackers depends on the context. For a tasting that only includes cheese, crackers, and fruit, it is recommended to anticipate 250g of cheese per person. When served as an appetizer, plan for 90-100g of cheese per person, and if the cheese is served after dinner, allow for 45-60g per person.
