The Cheese Course

How to Select and Serve Cheese

The Cheese Course

How to Select and Serve Cheese

Cheese is one of food's greatest pleasures. But there is much to know when it comes to making cheese the main event. Whether it's the centerpiece of a wine and cheese party or else a luxurious course to finish a fine meal, cheese is fragile, complex and full of variety.

When putting a cheese course or plate together, it's essential to ask for help from a first-rate cheese monger who can help you with an overall plan and then guide you on the best choices. Then all you need are a few guidelines to make sure you and your guests get the maximum enjoyment from this luxurious and satisfying food.

When to Serve a Cheese Course

A cheese course can be the centerpiece of a lunch or it can be a luxurious finish to a special dinner.  Keep in mind that cheese is full-flavored, which means it may not be a good choice to follow a heavy meal so if a cheese course is your goal, anticipate it. For example, serve it after a complex soup and salad, or in place of a sweet dessert.

The Cheeses

A cheese plate should offer a combination of flavors and textures as well as a variety of cheeses made from goat, cow and sheep's milk.

Tip: If you're serving a cheese course after an entrée, take the cheese out of the refrigerator as you sit down for dinner. Cheese will taste its best and spread most perfectly at room temperature.

Tip: If there is any cheese left over, wrap it in plastic wrap and then in foil before replacing in the refrigerator. Otherwise your refrigerator will smell like Gorgonzola and your Gorgonzola will taste like the inside of your refrigerator.


The Tools and Pairings

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Cheese

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