Let’s Talk Pickies

“Pickie- boards” and I go way back, ask anyone who knows me! The great thing about them is they’re easy to prepare, the bad thing about them, they can get expensive. I follow a few simple rules…first, this is usually a pre-dinner course so I don’t like to overload the board.

I’ve collected antique wood boards for years in all shapes and sizes, and I use single boards or multiple depending on whether it’s an intimate get-together or a larger party. I start by washing down the board with warm soapy water, dry it thoroughly with a cloth and set it out to dry fully. The final step is to seal it with butcher’s bees wax.

My tip for cheese selection is to offer a mix of hard cheese, semi-soft cheese and a soft cheese. My personal favorite is St. André, a french triple creme, which I always include. And, I will print out a menu for my guests to learn the type and origin of the cheese on the board.

Generally I don’t slice or cube the cheeses I serve, it’s more expedient, especially because I prepare my board just before my guests arrive and wrapping leftovers is quicker. A great set of cheese knives is a must- it’s no fun to struggle with a dull knife or trying to spread a cheese with a sharp knife. I’m careful to use a selection of crackers, breadsticks and thin sliced bread that compliment the flavors and textures of my cheese choices. (I rarely use a cheese flavored cracker, it seems bit too repetitive for me, unless I have a separate “meats board”, where the addition of a cheesey cracker would be welcome!)

I mix savory items like nuts, cornichons or olives with some sweet items like dried figs or cranberries. Fresh fruit like champagne grapes, green apples, blueberries or strawberries are always a nice (and colorful!) addition. Using small dishes on the board helps to contain goodies. Cured meats, in heaping piles is a nice balance to the cheese. I usually pick 2 that compliment every flavor on the board.

For larger crowds, I build multiple boards using cheeses from different countries, for example. A French board, and American Board, an Italian Board, and a Swiss board, using the same principles with products available in our area.

Setting the vibe is really important to make an intimate visit with friends. Find a cozy gathering area in your home, add some comfy pillows and throws and fresh flowers. Be sure to add small plates and/or cocktail napkins, put on some great music that fits the mood. Offer drinks that compliment the vibe, and candlelight is always lovely addition (DEFINITELY unscented candles near food). These are all important things to consider.

Enjoy your next pickies-session!

(click here for our Like to Know it post)

https://www.shopltk.com/explore/oldsilvershed/posts/d7c9cb5e-f9da-11ef-976e-0242ac11001b

XO,

Sandra