Are you a fan of blue cheese but unsure of what fruits to pair it with?
Look no further!
Blue cheese is a versatile cheese that can be paired with a variety of fruits to create a delicious and sophisticated flavor combination. From apples to pears, figs to cranberries, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll explore the best fruit pairings for blue cheese and provide some tips on how to create the perfect cheese platter for your next gathering.
So grab a glass of wine and let’s dive in!
What Fruit Goes With Blue Cheese?
Blue cheese is a bold and flavorful cheese that pairs well with a variety of fruits. Some of the best fruit pairings for blue cheese include:
– Apples: The crisp sweetness of apples complements the sharpness of blue cheese. Try pairing blue cheese with Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples.
– Pears: The delicate sweetness of pears pairs well with the tangy flavor of blue cheese. Bosc, Bartlett, and Anjou pears are all great options.
– Figs: The earthy sweetness of figs is a perfect match for blue cheese. Fresh figs are best when in season, but dried figs can also be used.
– Cranberries: The tartness of cranberries balances out the richness of blue cheese. Try pairing blue cheese with a cranberry and dried cherry sauce for a special treat.
– Berries: Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries all pair well with blue cheese. The sweetness of the berries complements the sharpness of the cheese.
– Grapes: Red grapes, in particular, pair well with blue cheese. The sweetness of the grapes balances out the tanginess of the cheese.
When selecting fruits to pair with blue cheese, it’s important to consider both the flavor and texture of the fruit. Fruits that are too sweet may overpower the flavor of the cheese, while fruits that are too soft may not provide enough contrast in texture.
The Basics Of Blue Cheese Pairings
Pairing blue cheese can be a bit tricky due to its bold and sharp flavor. However, when done correctly, it can result in a delicious and satisfying experience. Here are some basic guidelines to follow when pairing blue cheese:
– Wine: Blue cheese pairs well with red or sparkling wine. The tannins in red wine help cut through the richness of the cheese, while the bubbles in sparkling wine complement its sharpness.
– Dried fruits: Dried fruits such as apricots or raisins provide a sweet contrast to the salty and intense flavor of blue cheese.
– Fresh fruits: Fresh fruits such as figs and pears provide a delicate sweetness that complements the tangy flavor of blue cheese.
– Nuts: Nuts such as almonds and walnuts provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy texture of blue cheese.
– Meat: Blue cheese goes best with beef, preferably steak. The richness of the cheese complements the bold flavor of the meat.
It’s important to note that when pairing blue cheese, it’s best to have a variety of sweet and salty items to create a balanced pairing experience. Additionally, it’s important to consider the age of the blue cheese when selecting pairings. Aged blue cheeses tend to have a stronger flavor and pair better with bold flavors such as red wine and beef.
Apples And Blue Cheese: A Classic Combination
One of the most classic and beloved pairings for blue cheese is with apples. The crisp, juicy texture of apples complements the bold and tangy flavor of blue cheese perfectly. Whether you choose Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples, each variety brings its own unique sweetness to the pairing.
To take this classic combination to the next level, consider adding bacon to the mix. The smoky, salty flavor of bacon pairs well with both blue cheese and apples. For a fun twist, use cold, crisp Pink Lady apples as a “chip” to dip into blue cheese dressing or crumbled blue cheese.
If you’re looking for a more substantial dish, consider using apples and blue cheese in a salad. Combine mixed greens with sliced apples, crumbled blue cheese, and honey roasted almonds for a quick and flavorful side dish. Or use the combination as a base for grilled salmon or chicken.
When it comes to wine pairings, blue cheese and apples go well with a variety of options. Try pairing with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon. And of course, champagne or sparkling wine is always a great choice for any celebration.
Pears And Blue Cheese: A Match Made In Heaven
When it comes to pairing blue cheese with fruit, pears are a standout choice. The delicate sweetness of the pear complements the tangy flavor of blue cheese perfectly, creating a match made in heaven. The combination of pears, blue cheese, walnuts, and honey is a classic one that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether baked into a tart, sprinkled over pizza, or simply served on their own, pears and blue cheese are a winning combination.
When selecting pears for pairing with blue cheese, it’s best to choose a sweet variety that is not too tart. Red pears are a great option, as they tend to be sweeter than other varieties. If the pears you choose are on the harder side, simply cook them for slightly longer in the oven to soften them up. If they’re not very sweet, adding more brown sugar or honey to the filling can help enhance their sweetness.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy pears and blue cheese together, try making a pear and blue cheese tart. Simply layer thinly sliced pears and crumbled blue cheese on top of puff pastry, sprinkle with chopped walnuts and honey, and bake until golden brown. The result is a delicious and impressive-looking dish that is sure to impress.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory dishes, pears and blue cheese are a versatile pairing that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. So next time you’re looking for a tasty snack or appetizer, consider reaching for some pears and blue cheese – you won’t be disappointed!
Figs And Blue Cheese: A Sweet And Savory Delight
One of the most delicious pairings for blue cheese is figs. The earthy sweetness of figs perfectly complements the tangy flavor of blue cheese. This combination is often used in salads, such as the Fig, Pear, & Blue Cheese Salad mentioned above, which also includes candied walnuts and toasted hazelnuts for added texture and flavor.
Another way to enjoy this pairing is by roasting fresh figs with blue cheese and a drizzle of honey, as described in the recipe for Figs with Roquefort and Honey. This simple yet elegant dish is a perfect appetizer or dessert for any occasion.
For a quick and easy hors d’oeuvre, you can also make Blue Cheese Thumbprint Cookies with Fig Jam. These delicate, crumbly cookies are flecked with blue cheese and black pepper and topped with good-quality fig jam.
Cranberries And Blue Cheese: A Festive Pairing
With the holiday season fast approaching, cranberries and blue cheese make for a festive pairing that is both flavorful and visually stunning. The tartness of cranberries complements the sharpness of blue cheese, making it a perfect match for holiday gatherings and dinner parties.
One way to enjoy this pairing is by serving a Cranberry Pecan Salad with Blue Cheese. This salad features a mesclun salad mix topped with a light vinaigrette, crunchy pecans, dried cranberries, and blue cheese. It’s perfect for your Christmas or Thanksgiving table but also delicious all year round.
Another way to enjoy this pairing is by serving blue cheese with a cranberry and dried cherry sauce. This combination is sure to impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to any cheese plate. Simply serve with champagne or other sparkling wines, big reds, port, sherry, ice wines, or other dessert wines.
For those who prefer a more mild form of blue cheese, Cambozola is a great option. This creamy brie-blue blend cheese pairs beautifully with our Cranberry Orange and Cognac Chutney. Serve on fruit and nut crisps for a holiday pairing or add a small dish of toasted walnuts or candied pecans for an extra touch of sweetness.
In addition to salads and cheese plates, cranberry chutney with blue cheese can be used in other dishes as well. For example, try it on a grilled sirloin with crumbled Roquefort and a dollop of cranberry chutney or as a topping for a buttery puff pastry with blue cheese and candied walnuts.
Tips For Creating The Perfect Blue Cheese Platter
Creating the perfect blue cheese platter requires careful selection of both the cheese and the accompanying fruits. Here are some tips to help you create a delicious and visually appealing blue cheese platter:
1. Choose a variety of fruits: When selecting fruits to pair with blue cheese, try to choose a variety of flavors and textures. This will provide a range of options for your guests and make the platter more visually appealing.
2. Consider seasonality: Choosing fruits that are in season will ensure that they are at their peak flavor and freshness. In the winter, try sliced persimmons, pears, apples, and pomegranate quarters, along with dried fruits like apricots or cherries. In the summer, berries and stone fruits like plums or cherries are great options.
3. Don’t forget the crunch: Adding some crunchy elements to your blue cheese platter will provide a nice contrast in texture. Nuts like walnuts or almonds are a great option, as are whole grain crackers.
4. Use small bowls or ramekins: To keep things organized and prevent the different flavors from blending together, consider using small bowls or ramekins to hold the different fruits and nuts.
5. Add some visual interest: To make your blue cheese platter more visually appealing, try arranging the fruits and nuts in a pattern or using different colors and textures. You can also add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra pop of color.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and visually stunning blue cheese platter that is sure to impress your guests.
