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THE SAWATCH CHEESE PLATE STARTER GUIDE

The best get-togethers call for an even better cheese board to gather around. So, call your friends and round up your Sawatch favorites. We’ll walk you through how to sort out the rest.

Setting the stage for indulgence

  1. Hero

    Choose your cheese wisely, as these are the stars of any board. We like to start with three cheeses of varying textures and flavor profiles.

  2. Salty

    Open your palate with some salty snack additions that pair perfectly with your cheese. Cured meats, olives and nuts are always a good idea.

  3. Sweet

    Because cheese plates are all about balance, we love to include something sweet to our spread, like dark chocolate or dried fruit.

  4. Cutlery

    No matter how you slice it, cutlery counts. Pick knives appropriate for the cheese you’ve chosen. Bonus points if they’re also nice to look at.

  5. Dips

    Add another layer of flavor to your plate by offering at least a couple spreads, dips or dressings for your guests to top each bite.

  6. Crunch

    Every cheese plate needs a tasty base to build on. Try an assortment of different crackers, bread and sliced veggies sturdy enough to hold the goods.

Some ideas to build your own

Cheeses of your choice:
  • Gouda
  • Manchego
  • Cheddar
  • Brie
  • Monterey Jack
  • Blue Cheese
Charcuterie or cured meats of your choice:
  • Prosciutto
  • Salami
  • Pate
Bread & Crackers:
  • Sliced baguette
  • Breadsticks
  • Crackers
Fruits:
  • Grapes
  • Berries
  • Apple or Pear slices – add just before serving and drizzle with lemon juice to keep from browning
  • Sliced melons
  • Figs
  • Peach, plum or apricot slices
  • Pomegranate
  • Grape or cherry tomatoes
  • Raisins
  • Dried apricots
  • Dried prunes
  • Dates
  • Dried persimmons
  • Jams & preserves
Vegetables:
  • Cucumbers
  • Carrots
  • Radishes
  • Peppers
  • Cornichons
  • Pickled vegetables
  • Roasted red peppers
Dips & Spreads:
  • Hummus
  • Pesto
  • Olive tapenade
  • Vegetable dips
  • Olive oil
  • Honey
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Salted butter
Extras:
  • Olives
  • Nuts
  • Chocolate
  • Sea Salt
Greens & Herbs:
  • Rosemary
  • Basil
  • Thyme
  • Dill
  • Microgreens
  • Arugula
  • Spinach
  • Kale