Pin 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 reminds me of cozy evenings spent in mountain chalets enjoying good food and company
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
- Step 1:
- Arrange the cheeses on a large wooden or slate platter, spacing them out and slicing or cubing as appropriate for each variety
- Step 2:
- Fan out the charcuterie slices between the cheeses (if using)
- Step 3:
- Place bread slices and crackers around the platter, or serve in a separate basket
- Step 4:
- Fill small bowls with cornichons, pickled onions, walnuts, and dried fruit, and arrange these on or near the platter
- Step 5:
- Add fresh apple or pear slices for a sweet, refreshing contrast
- Step 6:
- Drizzle a little mountain honey in a small dish for pairing with blue or hard cheeses
- Step 7:
- Garnish the platter with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a festive touch
- Step 8:
- Serve at room temperature for optimal flavor
Pin Our family enjoys gathering around this cheese platter during winter holidays, sharing stories and laughter
Serving Suggestions
Pair this platter with a crisp white wine such as Apremont or Riesling or a light red like Pinot Noir for the perfect après ski experience
Storage Tips
Keep cheeses wrapped in parchment paper and store accompaniments separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness
Variations
Try adding marinated vegetables or different nuts to customize the platter to your taste and dietary preference
Pin This cheese platter invites warm memories and shared moments under cozy winter skies
Recipe Q&A
- → Which cheeses are best for this alpine spread?
Aged Comté, Beaufort, Reblochon, Tomme de Savoie, and Bleu de Gex or Roquefort provide a balanced mix of textures and flavors typical of alpine regions.
- → Can the platter be adapted for vegetarians?
Omit the charcuterie and increase portions of nuts, dried fruits, and fresh accompaniments to maintain variety and richness.
- → What breads complement this cheese selection?
Rustic baguette slices, rye or country loaf, and whole grain crackers offer sturdy bases and varied textures to accompany the cheeses.
- → How should the platter be served for optimal flavor?
Serve at room temperature, allowing the cheeses and accompaniments to release their full aromas and flavors.
- → Which beverages pair well with this mountain platter?
Crisp white wines like Apremont or Riesling, as well as light reds such as Pinot Noir, enhance the alpine flavors. Mulled wine or hot herbal tea suit colder settings.
- → What garnishes add a festive touch to the platter?
Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs add aromatic notes and visual appeal, complementing the alpine theme.