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 always brings warmth and cheer to our winter gatherings in the mountains. I love how everyone gets to pick and choose their favorite cheeses and accompaniments.
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:
- 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:
- 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 dish creates memorable family moments, perfect for sharing stories and laughter around a rustic wooden table during chilly winter nights.
Required Tools
Large wooden or slate platter Cheese knives Small bowls Bread knife
Allergen 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.
Nutritional Information
Per serving estimated Calories 430 Total Fat 26 g Carbohydrates 31 g Protein 18 g
Save This platter is a perfect winter appetizer that brings warmth and conviviality to any gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cheeses are ideal for this platter?
Comté, Beaufort, Reblochon, Tomme de Savoie, and blue cheese varieties like Bleu de Gex or Roquefort offer a balanced range of textures and flavors.
- → Can the platter be made vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the charcuterie and increase the quantity of nuts, fruits, or marinated vegetables for added variety.
- → What breads pair well with this assortment?
Rustic baguettes, rye, country loaves, and whole grain crackers provide excellent texture contrasts and mild flavors.
- → How should the platter be served?
Serve at room temperature to bring out the full flavor of the cheeses and accompaniments, ensuring a pleasant tasting experience.
- → What drinks complement this mountain cheese platter?
Crisp white wines like Apremont or Riesling and light reds such as Pinot Noir pair beautifully. Mulled wine or herbal teas also enhance the winter mood.