How to Arrange a Simple Cheese Tray to Impress

When entertaining, a cheese tray is one of the simplest appetizers you can make to serve.  However, it involves a little more thought than just slapping a wedge of cheese and a few crackers on a plate. 

Today, I'm joining up with the lovely Back to the Basics group to show you how to arrange a simple cheese tray that will impress your guests! Using all items purchased at my local supermarket, I've created a delicious and enticing spread that takes very little prep. While our kitchen is being renovated, this is going to be my go-to.  We enjoy a cheese and meat tray year round.  It's an easy meal that everyone in our family likes.  On a busy weekend evening, we will throw one of these together, gather around the coffee table and watch our favorite football team.

How to Arrange a Simple Cheese Tray to Impress

What you'll need:

  • A wooden board, tray, or a ceramic dish.  I used a DIY Chalkboard Tray that I made.  You can get the full directions, here. 
  • Cheeses; at least 2-3 different kinds.  Vary the flavors and textures so there is something for everyone.
  • Crackers or toast
  • Meat; I like to add at least 2 different kinds of meat; salami and summer sausages are sure to please
  • Something crunchy; cashews or almonds are a great choice
  • Something sweet; I love adding dried fruit like cranberries or apricots for color and sweetness or do a small dish of marinated olives.
  • Cheese knives for spreading

 

Other Considerations:

  • Count on 1-2 ounces of cheese per person when planning your tray
  • Have small plates available for each person
  • Don't crowd your platter; leave space for cutting if you are using cheese wedges
  • Have a different knife per cheese
  • Refrigerate your cheeses until an hour before serving time

I can't wait to see the other great hostess ideas I can grab from my friends below!


To life feeling like home!

XO,

 

  1. Great cheese tray Amy! The chalkboard tray you made is awesome!

  2. BonBon says:

    Amy – I love cheese trays, only problem is I eat too much! Ha! Thanks for the tips and l really like your DIY tray. Great job!

  3. Thank you for sharing this because I need to be reminded to do this more often. Easy and so yummy!

  4. CoCo says:

    Amy, you are a total champ for pulling this cheese tray off especially in the midst of a kitchen remodel! These tips are so good and definitely ones that can be repvisted all year long. Can’t wait to see how things are progressing on your latest project. I know it will be amazing! Hugs, CoCo

  5. This is great advice Amy and we love your DIY chalkboard too! We can’t even imagine your hectic family life with the kitchen reno! The payoff and wait will be worth it!

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