Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s eve, birthday parties… you have plenty of occasions to gather and make your guests happy with cheeses! And what better way to impress them than with a stunning cheese platter? Elegant, convivial, and absolutely delicious, a cheese platter is a must-have on any festive table. In this article, we’ll share the secrets to crafting a perfectly balanced, visually appealing platter that caters to all tastes. Follow our tips and become the ultimate cheese platter expert with the French experts from Paroles de Fromagers!
Why is a cheese platter a holiday essential?
Cheese is a cornerstone of French gastronomy—a true tradition that adds a touch of joy to any festive gathering. Not only is it a delight for the taste buds, but it also embodies the spirit of sharing and togetherness. A well-crafted cheese platter highlights artisanal and local products while telling a story to your guests. By following a few simple rules, you can create a platter worthy of the finest cheesemongers and provide an unforgettable culinary experience. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Mix textures and flavors
The perfect cheese platter is all about variety. It should offer something for everyone, from lovers of mild, creamy cheeses to those who enjoy bold and robust flavors. Here are the main cheese categories to include for a well-rounded selection:
- Soft cheeses with bloomy rinds: Think Camembert, Brie, or Coulommiers for a creamy texture and delicate flavor.
- Soft cheeses with washed rinds: Cheeses like Époisses or Livarot bring a bold and pungent touch to your platter.
- Pressed cheeses, cooked or uncooked: Comté, Cantal, or Tomme offer firm textures and subtle, nutty notes.
- Blue cheeses: Roquefort (sheep’s milk) or Fourme d’Ambert (cow’s milk) add intense, tangy flavors to the mix.
- Goat and sheep cheeses: Whether fresh or aged, these cheeses add an extra layer of diversity with their tangy, rustic profiles.
Feel free to mix origins and regions to surprise your guests and introduce them to lesser-known gems.
Step 2: Get the quantities right
While cheese is undeniably delicious, it’s often served after an already hearty meal. To avoid waste while ensuring everyone is satisfied, plan for about 70 to 100 grams of cheese per person, especially if your platter is followed by dessert.
Step 3: Make your platter visually stunning
A cheese platter shouldn’t just taste great—it should be a feast for the eyes too! Here are some tips, straight from Paroles de Fromagers, to create a show-stopping presentation:
- Play with shapes and colors: Mix slices, cubes, and whole pieces of cheese to create a visually appealing arrangement.
- Use the right accessories: Display your cheeses on a beautiful wooden or slate board. Add small labels with the names and origins of each cheese to spark your guests’ curiosity.
- Add accompaniments: Fresh fruits (like grapes or figs), dried fruits (walnuts, almonds), jams or preserves, honey, or nutty bread will enhance the flavors of the cheeses and provide a variety of options for every palate.
Step 4: Pair your cheeses with the perfect wines
To elevate your cheese platter, think about pairing it with the right wines. A good wine can highlight the nuances of a cheese, and vice versa. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Brie or Camembert: Pair with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.
- Comté or Gruyère: A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Savagnin works beautifully.
- Roquefort or Bleu d’Auvergne: Opt for a sweet wine, such as Sauternes or Monbazillac, for a perfect balance of sweet and salty.
- Goat cheeses: A crisp, mineral white wine like Sancerre will complement their tangy flavors.
Don’t hesitate to ask your cheesemonger (or us in the comments!) or a wine expert for tailored pairings.
Step 5: Prepare your platter in advance
To fully enjoy your holiday celebrations without spending the entire evening in the kitchen, prep your cheese platter ahead of time. Take the cheeses out of the fridge about an hour before serving so they can reach room temperature, which allows their full flavors to develop.
Step 6: Get creative with unique themes
To surprise your guests, why not create a themed cheese platter? Here are a few ideas:
- Regional platter: Showcase cheeses from a specific region, like Savoy, Normandy, or Auvergne.
- All-goat platter: Let your guests discover the diverse world of goat cheeses, from fresh to aged varieties.
- Festive platter: Include holiday favorites like truffled Brie or rich, creamy raw-milk cheeses paired with gourmet extras.
With a little preparation and a dash of creativity, you can create a truly exceptional cheese platter that will wow your guests during the holidays. At Paroles de Fromagers, we believe cheese is more than just food—it’s a passion, a way of life, and a unique way to bring people together.
So don’t wait—head to your local cheese shop, get inspired by your cheesemonger’s recommendations, and prepare the perfect cheese platter for your festive celebrations! Most importantly, savor these moments of joy and indulgence with family and friends.
Happy Holidays and parties to all! ✨🧀
