What To Serve With Cheese – 25 Tasty Sides to Serve
What would life be without cheese? It’s one of the most versatile and beloved foods in the world. But what do you serve with it? There are so many options, but what is the perfect cheese companion?
I’ll never forget the first time I had cheese fondue. It was at a small, intimate dinner party and it was love at first bite. The smooth, creamy cheese blended perfectly with the crispy bread and I was hooked. Since then, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect cheese companion.
I’ve been trying out different combinations ever since I started culinary school. Now, I’ve finally narrowed it down to what I think are the perfect pairings for cheese. So, whether you’re looking for a simple snack or an impressive appetizer, here are some of my favorite sides that pair well with cheese!
What To Serve With Cheese
- Crackers
- Olives
- Rye Bread
- Baguette
- Crudites
- Prosciutto
- Dates
- Apricots
- Figs
- Almonds
Crackers
Who doesn’t love a good cracker? They’re versatile, easy to eat, and pair well with a variety of cheeses. But with so many different types of crackers on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. Here’s a guide to help you pick the perfect cracker for your next cheese plate.
When it comes to crackers, there are two main types: the ones that are crisp and crunchy, and the ones that are more like biscotti or hardtack. Each has its distinct texture and flavor, so it’s important to choose one that will complement the cheese you’re serving. For example, a strong cheddar goes well with a crispy cracker, while a softer cheese like Brie pairs nicely with a cracker that has more heft to it.
In terms of flavor, there are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing a cracker. From savory herbs to sweet fruits, there’s a cracker out there that will suit any taste. If you’re not sure what to choose, go for a classic like saltines or water crackers. Or, for something heartier, try whole wheat or multigrain crackers.
Olives
Olives are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. They’re packed with nutrients, and their unique taste and texture make them a perfect accompaniment to cheese.
There are many different types of olives, so there’s sure to be one that pairs perfectly with your favorite cheese. For example, Italian green olives are a great match for mozzarella while Spanish black olives go well with strong cheeses like cabrales, while kalamata olives are delicious with feta.
When it comes to serving olives, you need to avoid using too much olive oil, as it can overwhelm the other flavors. Also, make sure the olives are nicely pitted so that your guests don’t have to worry about getting their fingers dirty. And remember that less is more – a few well-chosen olives will make a more impressive presentation than a large bowl of them.
Rye Bread
Rye bread is a hearty, dense bread that is perfect for pairing with cheese. Its intense flavor pairs well with both strong and mild kinds of cheese, and its chewy texture can stand up to even the most robust flavors.
However, rye bread can be difficult to work with, as it tends to crumble easily. For best results, slice the bread thinly and serve it at room temperature.
When choosing a cheese to pair with rye bread, consider both the strength of the flavor and the level of moisture. Sharp cheddar or dry goat cheese would be a good choice for strong-flavored rye bread, while a softer cheese like Brie would pair well with milder rye.
Baguette
If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your cheese, look no further than Baguette. This delicious bread is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making it the perfect vehicle for your favorite cheese.
Plus, with its long, thin shape, Baguette is easy to share. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet night in, Baguette is sure to please.
When it comes to choosing cheese for your Baguette, there are almost limitless possibilities. A classic favorite is Gruyere, with its nutty flavor and creamy texture. For a more bold option, try aged cheddar. Or, for a truly indulgent experience, go for brie.
Crudites
Crudités are perfect for those who are looking for a lighter side dish or appetizer. It consists of raw vegetables that are usually served with a dipping sauce. The most common vegetables used in crudités are carrots, celery, and cucumbers; however, feel free to get creative and use any vegetable that you enjoy eating raw.
When choosing cheese to pair with your crudités, go for something mild and creamy. Soft goat cheese or a Boursin cheese would be a good choice. If you are looking for a sharper flavor, try pairing your crudités with a Gruyère or Parmesan cheese.
Crudités are a healthy option as they are full of vitamins and minerals. They are also easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. However, they can be boring if they are not paired with an interesting dip or dressing.
Here are some tips and tricks that may help you make your crudites better:
- Try roasting your vegetables before serving them as crudités. Roasting gives the vegetables a deeper flavor without adding any fat or calories.
- If you are short on time, you can buy pre-cut vegetables at the grocery store.
- Pair your crudités with a flavorful dip or dressing to prevent them from tasting bland. Some good options include hummus, tzatziki, or ranch dressing.
Prosciutto
When it comes to cheese, there are endless possibilities. But when it comes to finding the perfect sidekick for your cheese plate, prosciutto is always a good choice.
This Italian dry-cured ham is typically made from pork leg, and it has a salty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of cheeses. It also has a firm texture that makes it ideal for slicing and serving on crackers or bread.
If you’re looking for a classic combination, try pairing Prosciutto with Parmigiano-Reggiano. The nutty flavor of the cheese will complement the saltiness of the ham, and the two will pair perfectly with a glass of red wine.
But if you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing Prosciutto with a strong blue cheese like Gorgonzola. The bold flavor of the cheese will stand up to the ham, and the two will create a dynamic duo that’s sure to please your palate.
Dates
Dates are a fruit that comes from a species of palm trees. The taste of dates can be sweet or savory, and they have a chewy texture. When selecting them, look for ones that are plump and have a deep color. Avoid dates that are shriveled or have sugar crystals on the surface.
There are many different types of cheese, so it can be tricky to know which one to pair with dates. A strongly flavored cheese, like blue cheese, is a good match for sweet dates. The sweetness of the fruit will also offset the saltiness of some cheeses, like feta. If you’re serving them as part of a charcuterie board, try pairing them with cheddar or gouda.
Apricots
Apricots are a type of stone fruit that is characterized by their sweet taste and soft texture. When choosing them, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch and have a deep orange color, and avoid apricots that are hard or green, as these will not be ripe and will not taste as sweet.
Apricots can be eaten fresh or cooked, and they pair well with both hard and soft cheeses. For a classic combination, try pairing apricots with goat cheese or Brie. If you’re looking for something a bit more unusual, try pairing apricots with Gorgonzola or Parmesan.
When pairing cheese and apricots, it’s important to remember that opposites attract. The sweetness of the fruit will balance out the saltiness of the cheese, and the creaminess of the cheese will offset the tartness of the fruit.
If you’re serving apricots as part of a cheese plate, be sure to include a variety of textures and flavors to keep your guests interested. And don’t forget the most important rule of thumb when it comes to cheese: always serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
Figs
Figs are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Fresh figs have a soft and delicate texture with a sweet yet slightly tart flavor. They pair well with a variety of cheeses, including goat cheese, ricotta, and brie.
When choosing a cheese to pair with figs, it is important to consider the intensity of the flavor. For example, a milder cheese like ricotta will allow the flavor of the figs to shine through, while a more pungent cheese like brie will provide a contrast to the sweetness of the fruit.
Almonds
Let’s talk about two of my all-time favorite things: cheese and almonds. First, let’s start with the almonds. Almonds have a light, delicate flavor with a hint of bitterness. They are also high in protein and fiber, which makes them a great snack for both adults and children.
When it comes to choosing the right cheese to pair with your almonds, you have many options. For a more savory dish, try pairing your almonds with cheddar cheese. If you’re looking for something slightly sweet, try pairing them with gorgonzola cheese. And if you’re looking for a unique flavor combination, try pairing your almonds with brie cheese. If you’re not sure which cheese to choose, I always recommend trying a few different kinds until you find the perfect match for your taste buds.
Related Questions When Choosing What To Serve With Cheese
What are other options when choosing what to serve with cheese?
- Hazelnut
- Pecans
- Walnut
- Serrano Ham
- Soppressata
- Grapes
- Berries
- Peaches
- Apples
- Mustard
- Chutney
- Jam
- Fruit Compote
- Honey
- Breadsticks
When should a cheese platter be served?
A cheese platter should be served after dinner as you may lose your appetite if you eat them beforehand given its rich flavor. Also, the cheese may help in digesting the food you ate right after.
Can you make a cheese platter the night before?
Yes, you can make a cheese platter in advance. Just make sure you wrap your platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate it so that it won’t go bad.
Make sure you leave it out at room temperature for 30 to 40 minutes before serving it. And don’t put the crackers in the fridge since they will lose their crunch texture. Just add it once you’re going to serve your platter.
Conclusion
Now that you know all there is to know about what to serve with cheese, it’s time to get started on your next party spread.
These sides are the perfect addition to any cheese platter, and I guarantee they will be a hit with your guests.
So what are you waiting for? Go try them out or start experimenting on your own and come up with your unique cheese and side combinations!