A sustainable cheese board is a fantastic way to elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a girl’s night in, a celebratory party, a picnic in the park, or a book club gathering, they bring people together. Plus, they allow you to get creative with flavors, textures, and pairings.
But how do you build a sustainable cheese board that’s both show-stopping and eco-friendly? With a focus on seasonal ingredients, artisanal cheeses, and mindful pairings, you can create a spread that’s as good for the planet as it is for your guests. Let’s dive in.
Pick a Theme
A themed cheese board makes it easy to highlight specific flavors. You could showcase the tastes of Napa Valley wine country or focus on seasonal ingredients. Other fun themes include sweet versus savory or boards designed for different meals, like brunch. Brunch boards are always a hit!
Select Your Canvas
Your cheese board needs a solid foundation. Butcher blocks and platters of various shapes and sizes work well. If you want something unique, check out a vintage shop or borrow a board from a friend.
Add the Stars of the Show
A well-rounded cheese selection is key. Try a brie-style cow’s milk cheese like Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam and an aged cheddar or a gouda like Point Reyes's as versatile cheese options that work well with all kinds of flavors and pairings. Including a dairy-free option is always thoughtful. We like Napa Valley producer Nova Terra Creamery who make delicious plant-based alternatives. Your local grocer should have plenty of options.
For charcuterie, go with an aged prosciutto like La Quercia Prosciutto Americano. If you prefer Italian prosciutto, your local deli is a great place to find it. When ordering, ask for thin slices to enhance the texture and flavor.
Sprinkle on Some Flair
Clif Family Organic Savory Nut Mixes, like Organic Salt and Vinegar Nuts add a crunchy contrast. Arrange them artfully on the board or blend them with extra virgin olive oil to create a nut spread. This makes a tasty, protein-rich alternative to meat for vegetarian or vegan guests.
To fill in the gaps, add crostini and crackers. Gluten-free options, like Cult Crackers, work well too. Fresh fruit, such as pear or apple slices, or even lettuce leaves, can provide a refreshing crunch.
For a pop of color, fresh berries pair beautifully with Clif Family Organic Blueberry Jam. To finish, drizzle on some Solar Grown™ Hot Honey for a touch of sweetness.
Finishing Touches
Fresh flowers and herbs add texture and color. If you have a garden, pick a few sprigs from there. Otherwise, support local farmers by buying seasonal greenery at the farmers’ market.
Wine Pairings
Pairing the right wine enhances the flavors of your board. Higher-acid wines complement salty cheeses, while light-bodied aromatics pair well with soft-ripened varieties. Richly flavored cheeses shine alongside full-bodied whites. Meanwhile, medium-bodied reds match beautifully with semi-soft selections. For charcuterie, a high-acidity sparkling wine is a great choice.
Some of our favorite cheese-friendly Clif Family wines include Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, Bici Red Wine Blend or Kit’s Killer Cabernet Sauvignon.
Learn More!
For more wine country entertaining ideas, browse the Clif Family blog for recipes from Executive Chef Magnus Young.
And if you want an effortless way to create the perfect cheese board, check out our Mangia! By Clif Family food subscription box. It includes Clif Family artisan food products that pair beautifully with any cheese selection.
Now, gather your ingredients and start building a sustainable cheese board that will impress your guests!
