Cheese? Yes, please!

Last minute dinner to plan? Think cheesey.

We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite Italian cheeses that you’ll be sure to find at the local cheese monger, creating an original and unforgettable meal for your guests. Don't forget that displaying the cheese on an elegant platter is as important as the quality of cheeses that you place on it!

Which Type of Cheese Do I Buy?

We suggest the following cheeses:

Fresh Montasio (aged two months maximum)

Gorgonzola

Asiago (medium-aged)

Parmigiano Reggiano

Pecorino (Sardinian or Tuscan)

There are a few rules when you are tasting the cheese.

It’s best to accompany these cheeses with two or three sauces so that you can achieve a balanced mixture of sweet and sour. These sauces are similar in consistency to jam and are spread directly on the cheese. Sauces with flavors like apple, horseradish, or pumpkin and ginger are excellent to mix with the cheeses suggested above. Remember that honey also compliments the flavor of the cheese, in case you aren’t able to locate the sauces. Fresh, authentic Italian-style bread is always the perfect companion, and a few fresh walnuts are equally as tasty.

Let the cheese sit at room temperature for at least an hour before serving.

Start with the lightest flavored cheese and work your way toward the stronger flavors. Taste them in the following order:  Montasio, Asiago, Pecorino, Gorgonzola and finally Parmigiano Reggiano.

Be sure to use the proper utensils for slicing the cheese(cheese knife). Remember that the Parmigiano Reggiano is served in flakes, so use correct utensil to achieve them.

Which Wine?

To complete your cheese platter, you need the proper wine to accompany them. Choose an aromatic wine, such as Friulano or Sauvignon. The flavor of the Gorgonzola will be especially awakened with a Friulano.

italian cheese and wine
Choose the proper wine to accompany your cheese.

Additional Things To Serve

If the cheese isn’t filling enough, accompany your cheese platter with a mixed salad and dessert to top off your unforgettable meal.

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You can find our featured cheese serving set, complete with cutting board, lid, tray and knife by clicking this link.