At Max & Russ, we believe hosting is an art—and few things make a statement like a thoughtfully assembled cheese board. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, the right combination of cheese, accompaniments, and serveware transforms simple ingredients into something unforgettable.
Here’s how to create a well-balanced board, from flavors to finishes.
1. Choose a Variety of Cheeses
Aim for three to five cheeses with different textures and milk types to give your board structure and depth.
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Soft: Brie, Camembert, goat cheese
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Semi-Firm: Manchego, Comté, Havarti
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Hard: Aged cheddar, Parmigiano-Reggiano
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Blue: Gorgonzola, Roquefort
Why it works: Offering a range of textures and intensities keeps the experience dynamic and encourages guests to explore different pairings and flavors.
2. Add Sweet and Savory Accompaniments
Balance is essential. Contrasting elements not only bring color and texture, but they also elevate the flavor of the cheeses.
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Fresh fruits: Grapes, figs, apple slices
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Dried fruits: Apricots, cherries
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Nuts: Pistachios, walnuts, chocolate covered almonds
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Spreads: Fig jam, honey, whole grain mustard
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Charcuterie (optional): Prosciutto, salami, bresaola
Why it works: Sweet and salty additions enhance the cheese and invite guests to experiment with combinations.
3. Use the Right Serveware
The board itself sets the tone—whether you're going for rustic charm or refined minimalism.
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Ceramic boards for cool elegance and easy cleaning
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Wooden boards for warmth and a natural feel
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Mini bowls and ramekins for jams, olives, or nuts
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Cheese knives and spreaders designed for different textures
Why it works: Beautiful, functional serveware helps guests serve themselves with ease—and makes the whole presentation feel intentional.
4. Mind the Layout
Think of your board as a landscape. Start with the cheeses spaced out as anchors, then build around them with accompaniments.
Tips:
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Pre-slice or crumble a few pieces of each cheese to invite guests to dig in
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Arrange items in odd numbers—they’re more visually appealing
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Leave space between elements so nothing feels crowded
Why it works: A thoughtfully arranged board feels generous, not overwhelming—and allows each element to shine.
The Final Touch
A great cheese board is more than a snack—it’s a centerpiece, a conversation starter, and a way to share good taste with the people you care about. With a little planning and the right pieces, you can elevate any moment, from casual weeknights to celebratory gatherings.
Add a touch of whimsy to your spread with our Cabbage Cheese Leaf →
