Family Encyclopedia >> Home & Garden

How to Assemble an Elegant Cheese Tray: Expert Appetizer Guide

How to Assemble an Elegant Cheese Tray: Expert Appetizer Guide

Photo by She-n-He Photography

Yield: 8 servings.

Ingredients:

  • Firm cheese wedge, such as Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • Blue cheese wedge, such as Stilton or Gorgonzola
  • Wedge of Brie
  • 4-ounce piece of aged Cheddar or Gouda
  • 4 ounces soft goat cheese
  • Sliced baguette, olive bread, or cranberry-walnut bread
  • Crackers or crusty bread
  • Jar of honey or fruit chutney
  • Fresh fruits such as sliced apples or pears, figs, grapes, and cherries
  • Handful of nuts, such as almonds or Marcona almonds

Instructions:

  1. Remove the cheeses from the refrigerator one hour before serving. Their flavors shine brightest at room temperature.
  2. Portion one ounce of each cheese per person and arrange evenly on a large platter or cutting board.
  3. Provide a dedicated knife for each cheese: a butter knife works best for soft varieties, while a sharp knife is ideal for firm ones like Parmesan.
  4. Surround the cheeses with accompaniments like bread, crackers, honey, fruits, and nuts. Let your guests mix and match their perfect bites!