One way I have managed to get invited to parties over and over again, is by a good cheese plate. At least I like to think that.
I don't cook/bake often and would definitely not brag about being "good" at it.
A well executed cheese plate can guarentee an invite to the next soiree.
A well executed cheese plate can guarentee an invite to the next soiree.
When producing a cheese plate, I like to start with a concept or vision. Rustic, modern, french, Northwest are all themes I have worked with. Consider platters, plates, and vessels that present each element well. Think of layers of height and width when doing a mock up.
Next explore your cheese options. To "wow" quests, and the host, arrive baring a varietal of cheeses that are well presented. The best bet to please all attendees is to have a hard, soft, blue, pungent for a cheese that satisties all palettes. If you are keeping it minimal I would suggest 2 very distinct varieties of cheese. Be sure to consider the environment the party is in, and the type of guest that will be in attendance.
Pairing cheeses: Cheese can be great on it's own, but for more interest with your cheese plate I often add fruits, olives, nuts, breads, and spreads such as honey or preserves. Soft cheeses are best as a spread ontop of bread and crackers (the cracker sticks add great height). A hard cheese is delish with nuts or a spread. Pears, apples, and cranberries are a good pairing with blues like gorgonzola.
To teach the guests of the party about cheeses and pairing, I label what I am serving as thorough as possible. It encourages the guests to interact with the food and eachother.
I like this as a rustic cheese plate. It's organic and natural. Exposing the paper and cloths that the cheese came in makes it more casual and easy going. Instead of fretting over a pretty platter or plate.... use a wood cutting board! EASY!
This was a plate I did as a "Northwest" cheese plate. I labeled where the elements came from and displayed each pairing close in range.
A white platter can make any dish look chic and modern. I use a white platter to allow the ingredients to take center stage. Popping in a fresh sprig of rosemary or basil is a nice element to add.
Be creative with your actual platter. Chalk boards, wood planks, marble slabs, trays, and craft paper can all be cost savvy and unique if you already have them or know where to pick them up for a good cost. (Be sure if you are using a platter that is not made for food ie: chalk board..., place wax paper or cheese cloth under the edible items before serving).
I would love to hear how you have creatively designed a dish
without having to cook!
PLEASE SHARE!
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