CHEESE PLEASE.

Hi, lovelies! 

‘Tis the season for BBQs, beaches, and bathing suits and after a selfish winter, I could not be more thrilled. Well... honestly, I’m currently typing this from my NYC apartment so I could be a little more thrilled if I was actually ON the beach instead of writing about it. BUT, it’s okay because I’m heading out east in under 30 hours (yes, I’m counting). 

Anyway, with the summer weather, comes the summer food and it’s truly one of my favorite times to play hostess. The seasonal palettes are FULL of color and freshness plus you get the added bonus of enjoying them poolside, picnic style, or à la plage. I’ll be sharing some of my favorite summer snackies, some of which have become true staples within my family. If you’re like me, you like good quality, aesthetically pleasing spreads without those pretentious prices (I know all the spots to hit up for the most financially friendly grocery shopping.) So hopefully, some of my favorites end up on your table, too!

Okay, so to start, serving cheeseboards is a summer must (and quite honestly, not a summer exclusive for me). Their versatility allows for them to be the perfect food ornament at a party or a lovely center piece for you and a few friends. Now, I’m talking beyond those pre-made cheese platter kits in the grocery store. You know the ones -- pre-sliced cheeses (usually cheddar, pepper jack, and colby), with butter crackers, maybe a package of pepperoni... *sigh*. 

Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure those have saved multiple lives and friendships when you’re running late for a party and forgot you promised to bring something so you swing into Stop & Shop real quick and pick up one of those bad boys. But, if you’re the one hosting, the cheeseboard is something that should be put together with just a little more TLC. But don’t be afraid, it’s really not as difficult or expensive as it may seem. Usually, the deli section of your grocery store will have well-priced brands of cheeses, so check! 

For my cheeseboards, I usually will have three different types of cheese. It keeps it interesting but it’s not overwhelming. On top of paying attention to the flavors that I’m putting together, I also pay attention to the shapes, sizes, and consistencies. I usually will have a wedge of cheese (generally brie, because it’s the bomb.com) as well as cheeses that are sliced and cubed because it adds texture to the platter and makes it fun. With the cheese, I usually like to include a type of fig, fruits (usually grapes, this summer I incorporated watermelon which was super refreshing), simple meats, and occasionally a variety of nuts. For crackers, I love anything of the veggie, multigrain, garlic and herb variety. For cost efficiency, I also recommend buying a French baguette right out of the bakery section in your local grocery store, slicing it up and popping it in the oven to make crostini. Super inexpensive and still delicious. 

Presentation wise, I honestly would say to google images of cheese platters and try your best. Overtime, you’ll get the hang of how things fit and what looks best (and makes the most sense), especially on your own cheese boards. If your cheese exposure has been minimal and you’re not sure where to start, here are some common cheeses I love and to maybe help you get started with your summer of cheese: Smoked Gouda, Brie, Manchego, Garlic Herb Goat Cheese, and Pepper Jack. 

Welp, I hope this has helped broaden your cheeseboard horizons. I’m personally looking forward to prepping one, pouring some glasses of wine, and enjoying some laughs with my family and friends this weekend.

Until next time!