Casual entertaining
MAKE YOUR FESTIVE GATHERINGS EFFORTLESS
1 For sharing, choose a board that shows o the textures and colours of the cheese, like olive wood, ceramic, glass or slate. Include a knife for each cheese to prevent lavours mixing
2 For intimate gatherings, consider a composed cheese plate with pairings for each person – elegant and delicious
3 Bigger plates or boards are best when creating a cheese selection – a crowded board can look chaotic
4 Select cheeses from at least three families: blue, soft and hard cheeses. Then, add a few more depending on personal taste. Goat’s, lavoured, washed rind, or truled, can be special additions
5 Fresh bread or neutral lavoured crackers bring texture – provide one or two options when serving cheese with various pairings
6 Serve 120g cheese per person if you’re oering just cheese and drinks. If the board is a starter or you’re serving individual cheese plates, aim for 50g per person
7 Bring the cheeses up to room temperature an hour before serving for hard cheeses, or 30 minutes ahead for soft and blue cheeses
8 Cover lightly with a just-damp tea towel or muslin cloth to prevent drying
9 If serving just one wine, keep it classic with a crisp, chilled white riesling
10 If you prefer beer, serve a traditional, locally bottled pale ale alongside the cheese