Save A cozy, rustic cheese platter inspired by the flavors of the Alps, perfect for cold winter evenings. Featuring a selection of mountain cheeses, charcuterie, and accompaniments for a convivial, après-ski-style gathering.
I love how this platter brings friends and family together with simple yet elegant combinations that celebrate mountain traditions.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 150 g Comté (aged), 150 g Beaufort, 120 g Reblochon, 120 g Tomme de Savoie, 100 g Bleu de Gex or Roquefort (optional for blue cheese lovers)
- Charcuterie (omit for vegetarian option): 100 g Saucisson sec (dry-cured sausage), 100 g Prosciutto or jambon cru, 100 g Smoked ham
- Bread & Crackers: 1 rustic baguette sliced, 1 small rye or country loaf sliced, 80 g whole grain crackers
- Accompaniments: 1 small jar cornichons (pickled gherkins), 1 small jar pickled onions, 1 small bowl walnut halves, 1 small bowl dried apricots or figs, 1 crisp apple or pear sliced, 2 tbsp mountain honey, Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Arrange Cheeses:
- Arrange the cheeses on a large wooden or slate platter, spacing them out and slicing or cubing as appropriate for each variety.
- Add Charcuterie:
- Fan out the charcuterie slices between the cheeses (if using).
- Place Bread and Crackers:
- Place bread slices and crackers around the platter, or serve in a separate basket.
- Add Accompaniments:
- Fill small bowls with cornichons, pickled onions, walnuts, and dried fruit, and arrange these on or near the platter.
- Add Fruit Slices:
- Add fresh apple or pear slices for a sweet, refreshing contrast.
- Serve Honey:
- Drizzle a little mountain honey in a small dish for pairing with blue or hard cheeses.
- Garnish:
- Garnish the platter with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a festive touch.
- Serve:
- Serve at room temperature for optimal flavor.
Save This platter always creates special moments around the table with family sharing stories over delicious bites and warm drinks.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine (e.g. Apremont Riesling) or a light red (e.g. Pinot Noir) to complement the rich flavors.
Serving Tips
Serve with mulled wine or hot herbal tea for an extra wintery feel enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
Allergen and Dietary Information
Contains Milk (cheese), Wheat (bread crackers), Tree nuts (walnuts). May contain Sulfites (in pickles dried fruit) Gluten (bread crackers). Always check ingredient labels for specific allergens.
Save This cheese platter is your perfect winter appetizer for sharing joyful times with good food and company.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What cheeses work best for this platter?
Aged alpine varieties like Comté, Beaufort, Reblochon, and Tomme de Savoie offer rich textures and flavors that suit this board perfectly.
- → Can the charcuterie be omitted for vegetarians?
Yes, simply remove the cured meats and add extra nuts, dried fruits, or marinated vegetables to maintain variety and flavor.
- → How should the platter be served?
Serve at room temperature to allow cheeses and accompaniments to reveal their full flavor and aroma.
- → What wines pair well with this selection?
Crisp white wines like Apremont or Riesling and light reds such as Pinot Noir complement the cheeses and meats beautifully.
- → How can I customize this platter with local ingredients?
Substitute alpine cheeses with local varieties like Gruyère or Raclette, and use regional breads and cured meats for a unique twist.
- → What are good accompaniments to enhance the flavors?
Pickled onions, cornichons, fresh apple or pear slices, walnuts, dried apricots or figs, and a drizzle of mountain honey all add depth and balance.