Gourmet Cheese and Charcuterie Platter

Name: Gourmet Cheese and Charcuterie Platter
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 6-8
Ingredients: 1 small wheel of Brie; 100g aged cheddar, sliced; 100g blue cheese, crumbled; 100g goat cheese, log; 100g prosciutto, thinly sliced; 100g salami, sliced; 100g chorizo, sliced; 1 cup mixed olives; 1 cup assorted nuts; 1 cup fresh grapes; 1 baguette, sliced; Honey or fig jam for drizzling

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Elevate your entertaining with this exquisite gourmet cheese and charcuterie platter, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-04T06:26:29.682Z

This Gourmet Cheese and Charcuterie Platter is not just a meal; it's an experience. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it combines a variety of textures and flavors that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful array of flavors and textures
Perfect for sharing with friends and family
Customizable to suit any palate or occasion

      

Choosing the Right Cheeses

When assembling your gourmet cheese platter, selecting a variety of cheeses is essential to create an appealing and diverse flavor profile. Consider including soft, creamy cheeses like Brie, which have a delicate flavor and smooth texture. Aged cheddar offers a sharper taste that contrasts beautifully with milder cheeses, while blue cheese adds a bold, tangy kick. Goat cheese, with its tangy and earthy notes, rounds out the selection, providing a unique taste that pairs well with various accompaniments.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese types. Opt for regional varieties or artisanal cheeses to elevate your platter further. When choosing your cheeses, aim for a mix of textures and flavors; this not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites your guests to explore and discover their favorites.

The Art of Charcuterie

Charcuterie is an essential component of any gourmet platter, adding depth and richness to the experience. Thinly sliced cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, and chorizo provide a delightful contrast to the cheeses. Each type of meat brings its own distinctive flavor and texture, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the platter. For instance, the saltiness of prosciutto pairs perfectly with the creaminess of Brie, while the spicy notes of chorizo complement the sharpness of aged cheddar.

When arranging your charcuterie, consider the presentation. Layer the meats in a visually appealing way, perhaps creating small rolls or folds to add dimension. This not only looks inviting but also makes it easy for guests to help themselves. Pairing these meats with different cheeses will encourage guests to create their own unique bites and flavor combinations.

Accompaniments that Shine

Accompaniments play a vital role in balancing the flavors of your cheese and charcuterie platter. Fresh fruits like grapes add a burst of sweetness, while mixed olives provide a briny contrast that enhances the meats and cheeses. Assorted nuts bring a satisfying crunch and richness, creating a delightful textural experience. Consider using walnuts or pistachios for added flavor complexity.

Don't forget about the bread! A sliced baguette offers a perfect vessel for enjoying the cheeses and meats. You can also include crackers for variety. Adding a small dish of honey or fig jam for drizzling introduces a sweet element that beautifully complements the savory components of the platter, making each bite an exquisite treat.

Ingredients

Cheeses

1 small wheel of Brie
100g aged cheddar, sliced
100g blue cheese, crumbled
100g goat cheese, log

Charcuterie

100g prosciutto, thinly sliced
100g salami, sliced
100g chorizo, sliced

Accompaniments

1 cup mixed olives
1 cup assorted nuts
1 cup fresh grapes
1 baguette, sliced
Honey or fig jam for drizzling

Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses and meats!

Instructions

Prepare the platter

On a large wooden board or serving platter, arrange the cheeses in different sections, starting with the Brie in the center.

Add charcuterie

Layer the prosciutto, salami, and chorizo around the cheeses, creating a beautiful display.

Incorporate accompaniments

Fill in the gaps with mixed olives, nuts, and grapes for a pop of color and flavor.

Serve

Add sliced baguette and a small dish of honey or fig jam for drizzling. Enjoy!

This platter can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until serving.

Tips for Presentation

Creating an impressive cheese and charcuterie platter is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Use a large wooden board or a marble slab to provide a beautiful base for your arrangement. Start by placing the cheeses in different sections, as this will guide the eye and make the platter inviting. You can even use small bowls for olives or dips to add height and interest to your display.

Consider garnishing the platter with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, which not only adds a pop of color but also infuses a lovely aroma. The key is to make the platter look abundant and inviting, encouraging guests to dig in and enjoy the feast you've created.

Pairing Wine with Your Platter

To elevate your gourmet cheese and charcuterie platter, consider pairing it with the right wine. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creaminess of the cheeses, while a light red like Pinot Noir enhances the flavors of the cured meats. For those who prefer sparkling options, a dry prosecco or champagne can cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.

When serving wine, ensure it is at the appropriate temperature to enhance its flavors. Always offer guests a selection of wines to complement the variety of flavors on the platter. This not only enriches the tasting experience but also invites conversations about flavor pairings and personal preferences.

Customizing Your Platter

One of the best aspects of a cheese and charcuterie platter is its versatility. Feel free to customize it based on your guests' preferences or dietary restrictions. Incorporate different cheeses, such as vegan options or lactose-free varieties, to ensure everyone can enjoy the spread. Additionally, you can experiment with different meats, including smoked salmon or turkey, for a unique twist.

Seasonal fruits and vegetables can also enhance your platter. In the summer, consider adding slices of peaches or strawberries, while autumn may call for figs or pomegranate seeds. The key is to have fun with your selections and create a platter that reflects your style and the occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this platter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the platter a few hours in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

→ What types of cheeses work best?

A mix of soft, hard, and blue cheeses works well. Consider seasonal cheeses for variety.

→ Is this platter suitable for dietary restrictions?

You can customize the platter to accommodate dietary restrictions by choosing gluten-free crackers or vegetarian options.

→ What drinks pair well with this platter?

Wines such as red, white, or sparkling are great choices. You can also serve craft beers or non-alcoholic options.