Entertaining is fun, especially during the holiday season. But sometimes our schedule gets so busy that we do not have time to prepare all the food. A meat and cheese tray is the perfect option for when the time is short, but you still need hors d’oeuvres.
Meat and cheese trays are a great way to please dinner party guests. The winning combination of cured meats and different cheeses are perfect for get-togethers. There are a variety of meats and cheeses to select from.
Meats
Summer sausages, pepperoni, salami, Sopressata, Mortadella, and prosciutto are great choices for a meat and cheese tray. These meats will pair nicely with different cheeses and are sure to be a crowd pleaser. You can even add small cubes of turkey, ham or pork Select about three different types of meat and make sure they are thinly sliced.
Cheeses
Most supermarkets have a nice selection of cheeses that go beyond the standard cheeses. There are many options for cheeses. When selecting the cheese try to think about the taste and texture.
Try to select about three different types of cheeses for your tray. Many people will go with a Colby Jack which pairs nicely with many kinds of cheese. Colby Jack has a mild flavor which makes it a nice neutral cheese.
Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese with a bold flavor. There are different types of cheddar cheeses such as Farmhouse, Aged, mild and sharp.
Try to stay away from smelly cheeses such as Stilton and Gorgonzola.
Other Foods
When serving a meat and cheese tray make it extra special by adding some dipping sauce, fruits, olives, pickles, grapes, an assortment of nuts, bread, and an assortment of crackers.
Meat and cheese trays are a quick, easy, and delicious appetizers. They are great for game day, holidays, appetizers, or just about anywhere.