Andy Montoya
Cheese slices are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be melted between two slices of bread to make a grilled cheese sandwich, layered with meat and veggies to create a hearty sub, or even baked into a crispy, cheesy cracker. For a quick snack, roll up some slices of cheese with your choice of meat and veggies, or pair them with crackers, bread, or fruits like apples and grapes for a classic cheese board. If you're feeling creative, try pairing your cheese slices with something fresher, sweeter, or saltier—like fresh or dried figs, dates, or even granola.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Crackers & Breads | Baguette, pita bread, naan flatbread, bread sticks |
| Fruits | Dates, pears, apples, grapes, raspberries, figs, apricots |
| Condiments | Pesto, mixed olive tapenade, jam, marmalade, honey |
| Savories | Nuts, granola, olives |
| Meals | Sandwiches, burgers, pizza, fries, nachos, noodles |
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What You'll Learn
Crackers and breads
Crackers and bread are classic accompaniments to cheese slices. The crunch of a cracker or the texture of bread can complement the creaminess of cheese.
A crusty baguette is a popular choice to serve with cheese. You could spread a little pesto on a baguette slice and top it with a mild or medium-flavoured cheese. Alternatively, tear a baguette into rustic pieces and serve it with a creamy cheese like Brie.
Flatbreads such as naan bread are another option. You could also try warming some pita bread in the oven for a minute or two, cutting it into triangles, and serving it with your cheese slices.
Breadsticks are a fun and beautiful option to serve with cheese. They can be served in a glass jar or tall drinking glass alongside your cheese board.
If you want to serve crackers with your cheese slices, you could try a cracker sandwich. These are made by spreading mayonnaise, pesto, or another condiment on a cracker, topping it with cheese, and then placing another cracker on top.
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Fruits
When it comes to serving cheese slices, creating a well-rounded platter with a variety of fruits, both fresh and dried, is key.
Fresh fruits that pair well with cheese include grapes, apples, pears, berries, and melon. Apples, especially tart varieties like Granny Smith, are a classic pairing with cheddar cheese. Pears, on the other hand, are mild in flavour and allow the cheese to shine, making them a versatile pairing with cheeses such as blue cheese, brie, and stilton. For a refreshing twist, try grilling or roasting pears or grapes to bring out their natural sweetness. Berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries, also complement the cheese beautifully.
Melons, such as watermelon, offer a juicy-sweet contrast to salty cheeses like feta, while tropical fruits like mango and pineapple provide a burst of sweetness and acidity. Plums, with their fresh tart sweetness, are another excellent choice, especially when paired with cheddar cheese.
Dried fruits such as apricots, dates, cranberries, and raisins are also delightful additions to a cheese platter. The sweetness of dried apricots is particularly well-suited to sharp cheddar. For a festive touch, consider adding candied fruits like orange peel and candied ginger.
When creating your fruit and cheese platter, aim for a mix of sweet and tart fruits to complement the different cheese types. Don't forget to include some crackers, bread, and nuts to round out your platter and enhance the overall tasting experience.
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Condiments
When it comes to cheese, condiments can make or break the taste. Here are some of the best condiments to serve with cheese slices:
Pesto
Pesto is a great condiment to spread on a baguette slice, especially when topped with a mild or medium-flavoured cheese. It adds a punch of flavour to the cheese and bread combination.
Tapenade
A mixed olive tapenade is another condiment that pairs well with cheese. The briny flavour of olives complements creamy cheeses, and it can be easily found in stores or made at home.
Fruit Preserves
Apricot jam, raspberry jam, blueberry jam, blackberry jam, or any other fruit preserve can add a sweet touch to a cheese platter. The sweetness of the fruit preserve is a nice contrast to the savoury notes of the cheese.
Marmalade
A hint of orange marmalade can elevate the flavour of many cheeses. The citrusy and slightly bitter notes of marmalade create an intriguing flavour profile when paired with cheese.
Honey
Drizzling honey over blue cheese or stilton is a divine combination. Honey's sweetness and viscosity balance the sharpness and saltiness of blue cheese, creating a harmonious flavour experience.
Spices
Spices like chilli flakes, black pepper powder, and oregano can enhance the flavour of cheese slices. These spices add a kick of heat and aroma, making the cheese more exciting.
Sauces
Various sauces, such as pizza sauce, schezwan sauce, vegetable mayonnaise, and tandoori mayonnaise, can also be paired with cheese slices. These sauces add moisture and flavour, making the cheese slices more versatile and appealing.
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Savories
When it comes to savoury foods to serve with cheese slices, there are several options to choose from. Here are some ideas:
Breads and Crackers
A crusty baguette is a classic accompaniment to cheese, especially when paired with creamy brie. Other bread options include warm pita bread cut into triangles, naan flatbread, and breadsticks. Crackers are also a timeless companion to cheese and come in various flavours and textures.
Nuts
Warm Marcona almonds with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt make a delicious and simple bite. Candied pecans offer a savoury-sweet combination, while spiced nuts provide a savoury kick.
Meats
Sliced deli meats, such as cured meats, chicken, or steak, pair well with cheese. Meat and cheese is a protein-filled combination that can be a satisfying snack or part of a larger spread.
Vegetables
Vegetables can be a fresh and savoury pairing with cheese. Try sliced veggies such as capsicum, carrot, or beetroot with a semi-soft or firm cheese. You can also spread a layer of creamy cheese over the veggies or use cheese as a dip.
Condiments
Certain condiments can enhance the flavour of cheese. Pesto, for example, pairs well with a mild or medium-flavoured cheese on a baguette slice. Olive tapenade, apricot jam, marmalade, and honey also complement various cheeses.
These are just a few ideas for savoury foods to serve with cheese slices. Depending on your taste preferences and the type of cheese, you can create endless combinations to enjoy.
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Sliced veggies
For instance, the slight acidity and full-flavoured, buttery tang of Vermont Sharp Cheddar goes well with the tender, subtle sweetness of roasted red peppers. You can fold grated Vermont Sharp Cheddar Cheese and diced roasted red peppers into an omelette for breakfast.
Farmhouse Reserve Cheddar has a sharp, sophisticated flavour that pairs well with vibrant, tangy pickles. You can top crackers with Farmhouse Reserve Cheddar Cheese, cream cheese, and sweet or sour pickles for a tangy, creamy canapé.
Seriously Sharp Cheddar has a bold flavour that matches the intensely sweet tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes. You can combine shredded Seriously Sharp Cheddar Cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, and chives for a spread to serve with crackers.
Monterey Jack has a mild, creamy flavour that offsets the sourness and spice of kimchi. Layer Monterey Jack Cheese and kimchi between two slices of your favourite bread to make a grilled cheese sandwich.
Other vegetables that go well with cheese include zucchini, cauliflower, potatoes, broccoli, mushrooms, and onions.
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Frequently asked questions
Some bread options to serve with cheese slices include:
- Crusty baguette
- Warm pita bread
- Naan flatbread
- Bread sticks
Some fruit options to serve with cheese slices include:
- Dates
- Sliced pears
- Fresh raspberries
- Apples
- Fresh or dried figs
- Dried apricots
Some meat options to serve with cheese slices include sliced deli and cured meats, such as salami or prosciutto, or leftover chicken or steak.
Some vegetable options to serve with cheese slices include:
- Sliced veggies, such as bell peppers, carrots, or lettuce
- Sweetcorn
- Avocados
- Grilled vegetables, such as eggplant or zucchini
Some condiment options to serve with cheese slices include:
- Pesto
- Mixed olive tapenade
- Apricot jam
- Marmalade
- Honey
