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If you’ve ever stood in the cheese department confused about which cheeses would make a good assortment for your party, you are not alone.  You probably already know of at least a few cheeses that please your own palate, so start with those and add other selections with varying flavors and textures to give your guests a great assortment.  Here is a basic guide to get you started.
  

Select 3-5 different types of cheese, choosing one from each of the different categories listed below.  In terms of quantity, figure 4oz of cheese per person (e.g. 8 guests = 32oz or 4 different ½ lb. pieces).
 

Soft:                Brie, Camembert, St. André, Taleggio, Goat Cheese, Limburger

Semi-soft:       Havarti, Muenster, Monterey Jack, Colby, Fontina, Baby Swiss, Morbier

Firm:               Cheddar, Gouda, Jarlsberg, Swiss, Gruyere, Comte, Cotija, Provlone

Hard:              Asiago, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino, Manchego, Raclette, Edam 

Blue:               Roquefort, Stilton, Gorgonzola, Danish Blue 

  • Take your cheese out of the refrigerator one to two hours before you plan to serve it.  Serving cheese at room temperature allows you to taste the full flavor of the cheese.