Cheese Plate with Pears, Prosciutto and Brie
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 small to medium sized ripe red pears or apples Red Bartlett, Red d'Anjou, and Starkrimson, or any pear variety; skin on sliced
- 1 wedge or wheel French brie sliced
- 1 wedge smoked cheddar cheese sliced
- 1 wedge gouda sliced or cubed
- 1 bunch red grapes
- crackers I love Raincoast crisps or any flatbread crackers*
- prosciutto or salami or both
- candied pecans or marcona almonds
- pepper jelly**
- hot honey***
Instructions
- Arrange everything on a large plate or platter. I like to break things up into 2 or 3 sections, depending on how much food you have. For example, I'll place sliced pears in 3 different sections/places on the plate or platter.
- Think about color (don't place food items that are the same color next to each other) if possible. Include small plates, napkins, utensils/little forks and spoons next to the plate or platter. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
The art of charcuterie and cheese boards originated in France. The word "charcuterie" comes from the French words chair, which means "flesh," and cuit, which means "cooked". The French pioneered the modern version of charcuterie, which uses salt, herbs, and spices to preserve meat.
In Europe, charcuterie boards typically include cured meats, cheeses, and crackers or bread. In North America, charcuterie boards often include cheese, fruit, and a small amount of meat.
*I love Raincoast Crisps. I'm using the Pumpkin Spice crackers here. I also love the 365 brand from Whole Foods Flatbread Sea Salt crackers. When looking for crackers for a cheese board, I look for flavor, texture, shape and color.
**I'm using the brand: "Preservation Society" Pepper Jelly
***I'm using this hot honey