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.
This platter has always been a hit at our winter gatherings, reminding us of alpine ski trips and warming up chilly evenings with great company and delicious bites.
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.
- Arrange Charcuterie:
- Fan out the charcuterie slices between the cheeses (if using).
- Place Bread & Crackers:
- Place bread slices and crackers around the platter, or serve in a separate basket.
- Fill Bowls:
- 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.
- Drizzle 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 brings us together every winter, with laughter and stories shared over rich cheeses and warm flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine (e.g., Apremont, Riesling) or a light red (e.g., Pinot Noir) for the perfect alpine experience.
Tips for Assembly
Use a large wooden or slate platter and arrange items with variety and color for visual appeal and easy access.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftover cheeses wrapped in parchment paper and refrigerated. Consume within 3 days for best quality.
Save This mountain cheese platter is the perfect cozy centerpiece for any winter gathering, simple yet elegant and full of flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Which cheeses work best for this platter?
Aged mountain varieties like Comté, Beaufort, Reblochon, and Tomme de Savoie are perfect. Blue cheese options add a sharp contrast.
- → Can the charcuterie be omitted?
Yes, omitting charcuterie makes this suitable for vegetarians. Adding more nuts or marinated vegetables maintains flavor balance.
- → What breads complement the cheese selection?
Rustic baguette, rye or country loaf, and whole grain crackers provide diverse textures and pair well with the cheeses.
- → How should the platter be served?
Serve at room temperature to bring out the full flavors of cheeses and accompaniments.
- → What beverages pair well with this mountain spread?
Crisp white wines like Apremont or Riesling, light reds such as Pinot Noir, or warming drinks like mulled wine or herbal tea are ideal.
- → Are there suitable garnishes to enhance presentation?
Fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme add a festive touch and subtle aroma to the platter.