Cheese is a delicious treat no matter the time of year. Of course, when creating a winter cheese board, you can be sure that it will quite different from the one you serve in the warmer months. Here are some of the essentials to include when serving cheese this winter.

Types of cheese

You always want to make sure that your winter cheese board includes a variety of cheeses to cater to everyone’s tastes. You will fill your board but also keep some extra cheese in your fridge for refilling. Different cheeses are best served in different ways. For example, harder cheeses can be cubed while softer cheeses are best sliced using a cheese slicer (usually a stone or wood block with a wire cutter). If you plan on serving any strong-flavoured cheeses (like blue cheese), you should keep them on a separate platter.

Dried fruit

There is something about the sweetness of fruit that brings out the best flavours in our favourite cheeses. Some of the best dried fruits to serve with your winter cheese board include apricots, mangoes, cherries, raisins and cranberries.

Nuts

When selecting your nuts, you want them to offer flavour and texture but you should avoid anything that has been heavily salted, like peanuts. Almonds and even caramelized pecans are great options. Pistachios and walnuts are also delicious. Make sure that your pistachios are not too salty or they can completely overwhelm the flavours from the cheese and other food items.

Breads

Bread, crackers and mini toasts are all delicious options to pair with your cheese, fruit and nuts. Many people enjoy some type of carbohydrate on which to rest their cheese so make sure that you offer at least two options.

Fresh fruit

Not only does dried fruit taste great with cheese, but so too does fresh fruit. Pears, figs and apples are some of the top options for this time of year. Avoid citrus fruits since they will overpower the cheese.

Pickles

If you want something more on the briny side, you can also serve various types of pickles with your winter cheese board. They help balance the flavours and textures out very nicely. Olives, pickles and even peppadews are all excellent options.

Meat

Even if you do not eat meat, some of your guests might. Keep your meat separate, just in case. When selecting meats, make sure that you offer at least two types of meat. Some type of ham or prosciutto is great and salami is always a big hit.

Don’t forget that you can also serve various spreads like jam and even honey if you like. Your winter cheese board can then be topped with some decorative items. Consider something edible like parsley to play it safe and ensure that no unpleasant surprises occur.