When it comes to entertaining, we could all learn a thing or two from the French. They produce of some of the most beautiful wines in the world, are masters of their famed cuisine, created Champagne (what would a celebration be without Champagne) and they do it all with effortless style and grace. Recently I traveled to Aix-en-Provence in the South of France where I sampled some of the most delicious wines and cheeses I have ever tasted (in one of the most beautiful settings I’d ever seen). This trip inspired me to re-think the traditional cheese and charcuterie plate I use for entertaining friends and take a cue from the French experts. So, pour yourself a glass of Rosé and enjoy this Provence inspired cheese plate perfect for entertaining all summer long.
TOOLS:
Olivewood cheese boards: I prefer to use various board sizes to keep my cheese, meats, and bread separate. Here’s a beautiful trio of olivewood boards: http://www.houzz.com/photos/13993494/Olive-Wood-Cutting-Board-Giant-rustic-cutting-boards
Small dipping bowls: Dipping bowls are great for serving snacks to accompany your cheese boards including: olives, cornichons and nuts. These bowls are the perfect size for all your little nibbles (and they’re pretty too): http://www.rosannainc.com/kitchen-tabletop/bowls/farmhouse-pantry-small-hobnail-bowls/
Jam Jars: Serve your jams, chutneys, mustards and honey in simple glass jam jars of various shapes. Use beautiful spreaders to add an elegant or rustic touch to your table. See some of my favorites here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/106897726/6-15/oz-mini-glass-jars-for-diy-wedding?ref=market
Spreaders
http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/34695189.jsp?
http://www.bambeco.com/flatware-and-serving-utensils/bambeco-olive-wood-set-of-four-spreaders
Honey Dipper
http://www.surlatable.com/product/PRO-1920404
CHEESE: When choosing cheese, I always aim for a variety of tastes and textures. Below are some of my favorite French cheeses that your guests are sure to love.
- Langres (Sheep)
- Roquefort (Sheep)
- Comté (Cow)
- Époisses de Bourgogne (Cow)
- Chèvre (Goat)
CHARCUTERIE: These salty French meats are the perfect compliment to any cheese plate.
- Jambon de Bayonne (French Prosciutto)
- Saucisson Sec (French Salami)
JAMS & CHUTNEYS: These Provence inspired jams, chutneys and honeys will transport your party guests right to the French countryside. Try your hand at homemade Lavender honey like this recipe from Martha Stewart: http://www.marthastewart.com/315494/lavender-honey
- Lavender honey
- Apricot Jam
- Quince paste
- Sour cherry preserves
- Carmelized onion chutney
- Maille traditional Dijon mustard
- Maille whole grain mustard
FRUITS & NUTS: Fresh fruit adds a pop of color and a bright note to any table. Try choosing seasonal fruits specific to your region like the below South of France favorites.
- Fresh Figs
- Cherries
- Almonds
SAVORY SNACKS: Small nibbles are a great way to keep guests eating and conversation flowing.
- Cornichons
- Picholine Olives
BREADS: Do as the French do and always choose a fresh baguette.
- French baguette
- Grissini (pencil thin breadsticks)
Enjoy!
*Photo from Pinterest
Colleen Kennedy Cohen is an event planner and certified health coach living in New York City with her husband, Daniel, and daughter, Charley.
Colleen has been planning luxury events throughout the U.S. and Europe for major fashion houses since 2006. She began her career as an intern at Vogue magazine before going on to manage events in-house for renowned brands such as Donna Karan, Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino and Cartier. After the birth of her daughter, Colleen launched Colleen Kennedy Events to bring her luxury brand experience to private clients
With a love for all things beautiful, coupled with an eye for design, Colleen brings a versatile and fresh approach to each project she takes
on with the hope of making every day a beautiful “event.”
Instagram: CKCohen Pinterest: Colleen Kennedy Events Website: www.ColleenKennedyEvents.com