1. Choose Your Tray

When I put cheese trays together, I prefer to have a natural wood surface rather than a porcelain or silver tray. My creations look better set on wood, as they have a bit of rustic look to it. Natural wood invokes a sense of coziness and warmth that’s hard to accomplish with other types of trays.

As an event planner, I see rustic looking decor being used at many different types of events (especially weddings). Decor pieces such as mason jars, burlap, wooden ring centerpieces, and baby’s breath are quite popular. This type of decor can certainly be used to enhance the visual of your cheese board set up.

2. Choose Your Cheeses

When choosing cheese for your board, it is good to have soft cheese (such as Camembert or Brie), medium (Edam & Havarti) and hard cheese (such as Cheddar, Gouda, and Swiss). 4 or 5 types of cheese is enough of a variety. You don’t want to overwhelm your guests with too many flavors or textures, but still, try to build a plate that’s dynamic and interesting.

3. Choose Your Carbs

Once you’ve picked the cheeses, it’s time to decide on crackers. Since the “star of the show” is the cheese, I would pick rather neutral tasting crackers, such as soda crackers, or ciabatta bread, baguette, or rice crackers.

4. Add Fruit

Now it’s time to add some fruit. I love figs! They remind me of my younger years in Southern Europe when I used to eat them straight from the tree. To these, I will add green grapes, strawberries, and blackberries.

5. Optional Additions

It is not necessary to add nuts to your cheese tray, but you can! Think pistachios, almonds, and cashews. If you wish, you can also add hummus to your tray. And even meats such as prosciutto, ham or salami.

The possibilities of cheese boards are truly endless and there is tons of room to add your creativity and ideas. Wishing you love, laughter, and happy grazing! Say “cheese”! :)