Overhead of different cheeses on a rustic tabletop.

Cheese Spotlight

Welcome to your ultimate guide to cheese! Whether you’re a seasoned cheese connoisseur or just dipping your toes into the world of cheese, this guide is packed with everything you need to know. Discover the secrets behind the perfect charcuterie board, learn how to make cheese the star of the grill and get inspired to experiment with new textures and tastes! Let’s dive in!

What cheeses do I need for a charcuterie board?

Charcuterie board with deli meats, cheese, olives, bread sticks, jams and grainy mustard.

A well-curated charcuterie board is always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, whether it’s a dinner party or a cozy night in. To create a balanced and delicious board, focus on variety. Choose cheeses with different textures and flavours and don’t be afraid to incorporate cheeses made from different milks for a wider range of tastes. For example, pair a creamy brie with hard-aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Grana Padano, and add a crumbly Pecorino Romano for a salty kick. We recommend letting your cheeses sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance their flavours. For more charcuterie board tips and inspiration, check out our comprehensive charcuterie board guide!

A guide to Italian cheese

Italy is known for their architecture, history, and cheese! Italian cheeses are world renowned and offer a variety of flavours and textures.

Grana Padano: With origins in Northern Italy, this cheese has a nutty and slightly sweet flavour.
Parmigiano Reggiano: A popular cheese, this has bold and savoury flavours.
Pecorino Romano: Often made with sheep’s milk, it offers a buttery texture and tangy flavour profile.
Provolone Valpadana: A semi-hard cheese that originates from the Campania region in Italy and has a full bodied flavour with a hint of spice.

Understanding cheese classifications

Parmesan wheels on shelves stamped with a DOP designation.

Cheese classifications help us understand the wide variety of cheeses available. From texture and milk type to aging process and moisture content, there are many ways to classify cheese. These categories give us insight into the cheese’s origin and unique characteristics, making it easier to choose the right cheese for your needs. Understanding these distinctions is the first step in appreciating cheese like a true connoisseur.

What is the significance of PDO designation on cheese?

Protected Designation of Origin, or PDO, is a label given to certain European cheeses to certify their quality, tradition and origin. Cheeses with a PDO label are made in a specific region using traditional methods and ingredients unique to that area. For example, Parmigiano Reggiano can only be produced in certain provinces of Italy.

Tip: Look for DOP or Denominazione Di Origine Protetta in Italian and AOP or Appellation d’Origine Protégée in French.

Grilling cheese tips

Grilled halloumi on a pan drizzled with olive oil and cut cherry tomatoes

Grilling cheeses are in a category of their own, known for their ability to hold shape even when exposed to high heat. Unlike most cheeses, grilling varieties are lower in moisture and higher in protein, making them ideal for frying or grilling.

When grilling cheese, preheat your pan or grill to medium-high heat to prevent sticking. Avoid overcooking as grilling cheeses are best when they’re golden on the outside and soft, and gooey on the inside. Some popular grilling cheeses include halloumi, provolone, queso fresco and saganaki.