PARTNER POST- Create the perfect fall cheese board spread with Castello’s selection of expertly crafted cheeses. Find inspiration here.
Create a cheese board that screams of comfort food and is loaded with blue and havarti cheeses.

It’s cold and blustery outside and it definitely feels like the holidays season is here. So not only am I in full holiday mode around here, but I’m also trying to bring all those foods that trigger comfort for me when I’m planning and preparing our holiday menu. For me, cheese is an all-around comfort food and everything else revolves around that. So of course when I’m creating holiday appetizers I want that comfort to be included and that means cheese is involved.

We like to put out a beautiful cheese spread with crackers and pickles, olives, wine and more for the family to snack on while they visit. Those times when you get to spend moments together with family over food are so cherished.
We used these Raincoast Crisps (Salty Date and Almond Crackers) from Lesley Stowe and also Veggie Flats (Beet and Balsamic Vinegar Flatbreads) as the base, then topped with salami, Castello Blue Cheese and an olive. Oh boy, I had a hard time not eating them all.

Even though blue cheese is our favorite, we also like to include a little Castello Havarti for those that prefer something a little more mild. It’s equally as delicious when paried with the salami and crackers.

Looking for more great ideas for your cheeseboard? Check out the video below and follow this link for the written recipe!

We always make sure to have plenty of good wine on hand when feeding a crowd.
For this, we served Napa Cellars Chardonay & Folie à Deux.
Print
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This comforting cheese board features a delightful mix of Castello Blue and Havarti cheeses, paired with salami, olives, and gourmet crackers, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 package Raincoast Crisps (Salty Date & Almond Crackers) or Veggie Flats (Beet & Balsamic Vinegar Flatbreads)
- 30 slices salami
- 1 wedge Blue Cheese
- 1 wedge Havarti Cheese
- 1 jar green or purple olives
- Optional: small pickles
- Optional: black olives
- Optional: mustard
Instructions
- Arrange the crackers or flatbreads on a large serving platter.
- Top each cracker with a slice of salami.
- Add a small piece of Blue Cheese on top of the salami.
- Place an olive on top of the cheese.
- For variety, substitute or add a piece of Havarti Cheese, a small pickle, or black olives.
- Serve immediately with a selection of wines, such as Napa Cellars Chardonnay or Folie à Deux.
Notes
For a more varied flavor, try adding small pickles or black olives. Havarti cheese offers a milder alternative to blue cheese. Serve with a selection of wines for an enhanced tasting experience. This cheese board is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared slightly in advance if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 30
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of crackers work best for the cheese board?
For this cheese board, Raincoast Crisps (Salty Date and Almond Crackers) and Veggie Flats (Beet and Balsamic Vinegar Flatbreads) are great choices that complement the cheeses well.
Can I substitute the Castello Blue Cheese with another type of cheese?
While Castello Blue Cheese is a key ingredient for its unique flavor, you can substitute it with another blue cheese if needed; just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change.
How should I arrange the cheese and other components on the board?
Arrange the Castello Blue Cheese and Havarti cheeses alongside the salami, crackers, and olives, ensuring there’s a balance of colors and textures for an inviting presentation.
