A cheese board is an impressive and delicious way to entertain guests- always a crowd favorite, but they don’t have to be just cheese and crackers.
With the right selection of ingredients, you can create a masterpiece that is both visually stunning and deliciously unforgettable.
But what should you serve with a cheese board? It’s easy to make an attractive cheese board that looks like it’s from a restaurant—all you need is a few simple ingredients.
Here are 24 incredible side dishes that will help you create the ultimate cheese board that everyone will love.
In short- what to serve with Cheese Board- Pair With Crackers, Fresh fruits, Fruit Salsa, Jalapeno Poppers, Pickled Vegetables, Marinated Olives & Artichokes, Toasted Nuts & Seeds, Roasted Garlic Spreads & Tapenades, Prosciutto Wrapped Figs & Grapes, Tomato Bruschetta, Meats and Cheeses, Honey, Jam, Mustard, Vegetables, Baked Olive, Artichoke Hearts, Roasted Red peppers, Dried Fruits, Hummus, Charcuterie, Herbs, and Bread.
How to Create a Cheese Board Masterpiece- Expert Chef Guide
Choose Your Cheese Wisely
The star of your cheese board should be the cheese itself. So, When selecting cheeses, opt for two or three different types of cheese in different textures and flavors.
Start with a hard cheese, such as cheddar or manchego, followed by a semi-soft cheese, such as brie or camembert.
For the third option, choose either a soft blue cheese or an aged goat’s milk cheese.
Selecting different shapes can also add visual appeal to your board. Try wedges, slices, blocks, and cubes of varying sizes and shapes for variety.
You can also include some interesting additions like flavored cream cheeses or other unique varieties like truffle brie or jalapeno pepper jack.
Accompaniments- The Most Key Point
What would a cheese board be without its accompaniments?
Additions like cured meats, crackers or crostini, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and chutneys will add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your creation.
For example, if you choose a hard-aged Gouda for one of your selections, you could pair it with sharp green apples and walnuts for contrast in flavor and mouthfeel.
Another idea is adding honeycomb with creamy Boursin for an ultra-luxurious bite. The possibilities are truly endless!
Presentation Matters
Presentation is just as important as flavor when it comes to creating the perfect cheese board.
Arrange all components in a visually appealing way on a large wooden cutting board or slate platter, so they look inviting yet organized at the same time.
Consider adding some fresh herbs, sprigs, or edible flowers as well for an extra touch of sophistication that will wow your guests before they even take their first bite!
24 Incredible Side Dishes to Serve with a Cheese Board
1. Pair With Crackers
Crackers are essential for any cheese board because they provide an excellent pairing option for all types of cheeses.
Crackers help make up the base of most cheese boards, as they provide a crunchy vessel on which you can spread your favorite types of cheese and other accompaniments.
However, rather than just grabbing any old bag of crackers from the grocery store shelf, try something unique like gourmet flatbread crisps or truffle oil potato chips for something with extra flavor.
You can also opt for sliced crusty bread or even pita chips if you prefer something subtler in flavor. The options are endless!
Choose crackers made from whole-grain flour or gluten-free ingredients to ensure everyone gets something they can enjoy.
Know More: What to Serve with Crusty Bread
2. Add Accoutrements Fresh fruits
Fruits are a must-have on any cheese board. Not only do they add color and sweetness to the plate, but they also pair well with many types of cheeses.
Adding fresh fruit to your cheese board can help make it look even more appetizing and also provide a sweet contrast to the savory taste of some of the cheeses.
Like grapes and strawberries are always great additions to any cheese plate because they add both contrasts in texture and sweetness in flavor to balance out the saltiness of the cheese.
Olives also work well as they provide another level of saltiness that pairs nicely with most cheeses.
Try adding apples (sliced or cubed), pears (sliced or wedged), figs (halved or quartered), grapes (seedless or seeded), strawberries, and other seasonal fruits like melon or persimmon.
You can even add dried fruits like cranberries for an extra burst of flavor!
3. Fruit Salsa
Fruit Salsa is a delicious combination of ripe fruits, tomatoes, and peppers that pairs perfectly with a creamy cheese dip or spread.
The natural sweetness of the fruit salsa complements the saltiness of the cheese and adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
4. Jalapeno Poppers
For something with a bit more heat, jalapeno poppers work wonderfully as a side dish for any cheese board.
The creamy filling inside the pepper balances out the spiciness while still providing enough kick to make each bite interesting.
Plus, its crunchy texture makes it an ideal pairing for soft cheeses like brie or camembert.
5. Pickled Vegetables
Who doesn’t love a good pickle? Pickles go great with cheese boards because they offer the perfect balance between sweet and sour flavors.
Pickled vegetables provide an extra layer of flavor and texture that you won’t get from plain ol’ veggies on a platter.
From pickled carrots and cucumbers to pickled onions and mushrooms, there is something for everyone on this traditional accompaniment to a cheese board.
6. Marinated Olives & Artichokes
Marinated olives and artichokes offer up rich flavors that pair flawlessly with sharp cheddar or gorgonzola cheeses, adding depth and complexity to each bite.
Additionally, these sides are easy to make ahead of time, so all you need to do is set them out when it’s time for your guests to dig in!
7. Toasted Nuts & Seeds
Nuts and seeds are excellent additions to any cheese platter. So they really not just add texture and flavor but are also a good source of protein.
Toasted nuts like almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pecan add crunchy texture while also providing heart-healthy fats that balance out the richness of some cheeses like brie or blue cheese.
Add in some pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for extra protein and fiber—your guests will thank you!
8. Roasted Garlic Spreads & Tapenades
Roasted garlic spreads or tapenades provide a unique flavor profile that pairs nicely with milder cheeses like feta or goat cheese.
These spreads also add vibrant color when served alongside other sides on the plate—the perfect finishing touch!
Also Read: What to serve with Chili Cheese Fries
9. Prosciutto Wrapped Figs & Grapes
Sweet figs wrapped in prosciutto and skewered grapes offer up both sweet and savory flavors that go great with creamy soft cheeses such as brie or camembert.
The salty prosciutto complements the natural sweetness of these fruits perfectly, creating an irresistible combination.
10. Tomato Bruschetta
Tomato bruschetta is a classic Italian side dish that pairs wonderfully with almost any type of cheese.
The juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and garlic create an incredible flavor profile that complements especially well with mozzarella or ricotta.
It’s also light enough not to overwhelm any delicate flavors in the cheeseboard, making it perfect for any occasion!
11. Meats and Cheeses
Of course, no cheese board would be complete without meats and cheeses!
Choose cured meats such as prosciutto or salami as well as hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda. Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can also be added for variety.
And don’t forget about smoked fish! Smoked salmon pairs well with creamier cheeses like brie or camembert for added flavor complexity on the plate.
12. Pickles and Olives
Pickles add crunchiness to any cheese board, along with a unique tangy flavor that pairs well with many types of cheeses.
Similarly, Olives are a great source of healthy fats and offer an intense umami flavor that compliments almost every type of cheese, from blue-veined varieties to milder options like mozzarella or ricotta.
Whether you opt for classic green olives or something more exotic like kalamata or black olives, this salty side dish will add an extra layer of flavor to your cheese board.
13. Honey
Honey is often overlooked when it comes to creating a cheese board, but it’s actually one of the most important ingredients!
The sweetness of honey helps balance out more pungent cheeses while providing a depth of flavor that can’t be achieved with other ingredients alone.
14. Jam
For a sweet accompaniment to your cheese board, jams are always a good option, and they pair perfectly with almost any type of cheese, from creamy bries to sharp cheddars.
Choose flavors that complement each other—like peach jam with blue-veined cheeses, figs, or apricot—for maximum effect.
15. Mustard
Mustard is a great source of flavor when paired with cheese boards and can add a touch of heat to your dishes.
Mustard adds an additional layer of complexity when paired with meats, cheeses, pickles, olives, honey, jams, etc . on your plate.
Choose milder mustards —like Dijon —for softer flavors, while spicier mustards —like whole grain mustard —offer bolder flavors.
16. Vegetables
Think beyond carrots and celery when it comes to vegetables!
Roasted vegetables such as squash, zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, etc . offer interesting textures as well as vibrant colors that pop against other ingredients on your plate.
Add roasted garlic cloves for extra zing!
17. Baked Olives
A simple yet delicious side dish to any cheese board, baked olives are a great way to add some flavor to your cheese board.
Olives are a great source of antioxidants and provide healthy fats that can help keep us feeling fuller for longer.
18. Artichoke Hearts
Artichoke hearts are a great addition to any cheese board. Whether you use them as a dip or simply serve them as a side dish to your cheese board, you’ll be sure to please any crowd.
Artichoke hearts are packed with iron, calcium, and other essential nutrients that can help boost our overall health.
19. Roasted Red Peppers
Roasted red peppers add an extra layer of flavor and texture to any cheese board.
These flavorful vegetables are full of vitamins A, C, and K and are also high in fiber. They pair well with both soft and hard cheeses alike.
20. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is another great side dish for any cheese board because it adds a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with creamy cheeses and salty accompaniments like olives and nuts.
Try serving dried apricots or cherries with your next cheese board for an extra burst of flavor.
21. Hummus
Hummus is a delicious dip that goes great with any type of cheese board.
Not only is hummus rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, but it also tastes great when paired with crackers or fresh vegetables.
22. Charcuterie
Try adding some charcuterie. Whether you opt for sliced meats like prosciutto or salami, or a variety of cured sausages, charcuterie adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with all types of cheeses.
23. Herbs
Fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, chives, and oregano all make excellent side dishes on any cheese board.
These flavorful ingredients are high in antioxidants and pair well with both soft and hard cheeses alike.
Use them to make flavorful spreads, or just sprinkle some over the top before serving.
24. Bread
Last but not least, don’t forget the bread! Slices of warm crusty baguette are a classic side dish for any cheese board and can be used to spread creamy cheeses onto crackers or eaten by themselves.
Choose from a wide range of options, such as sourdough, whole-wheat, or gluten-free, to ensure everyone gets something they can enjoy.
With these accompaniments, your cheese board will be sure to please even the pickiest of eaters! Now that you know what side dishes pair well with cheese boards, why not give it a try for your next gathering? Bon Appétit!
What to serve after the cheese board?
If you want to continue the meal after the cheese board, a good option is to serve some charcuterie.
Charcuterie is cured meats such as salami, prosciutto, and lomo, which pair perfectly with different kinds of cheeses. You can also offer some crusty bread or crackers for people to enjoy the charcuterie with.
For a lighter option, you could serve some fresh fruits and vegetables for a crunchy contrast to the creamy cheeses.
This can include carrots, celery, apples or pears, grapes, strawberries, or any other type of fruit that you think your guests will enjoy.
If you want to keep the meal going, you could also offer some small appetizers such as crostini or bruschetta. These are great options for snacking and can be topped with a number of different ingredients.
Finally, if you want to make an entire meal after the cheese board, you can serve some salads or pasta to complete the meal.
Salads are an excellent way to add more fresh flavors and textures to the cheese board, while pasta offers a heartier option for those looking for something more filling.
FAQs
Can a cheese board be the main meal?
Yes, a cheese board can be the main meal. A well-rounded cheese platter with a variety of cheeses, accompaniments, and other items like nuts or olives can make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
You may want to include some fruit, such as grapes or apples, as well as some cured meats and crackers to complete the meal.
Choosing a variety of flavors and textures will help ensure the cheese board is both flavorful and filling. Adding some honey or jams can also add sweetness to balance out the saltiness of the cheeses, making it even more enjoyable.
What goes with a cheese board gift?
Cheese boards come with many delicious matches that can make your gift even more special.
Consider adding items such as gourmet crackers, nuts, olives, dried fruits, cured meats, jams and preserves, honeycomb, chutneys, and spreads.
A cheese board gift is also the perfect opportunity to introduce someone to interesting cheeses from around the world, so consider adding some specialty cheeses and a book on cheese-making to complete the set.
You may also want to consider including unique serving utensils with your cheese board gift or purchasing a beautiful wood-cutting board to serve as the foundation of your gift.
A cheese knife set, chutney spoon, and pickle fork are all wonderful additions that will make your gift even more memorable.
