There is something inherently magical about autumn—a season that invites togetherness and celebrates the bounty of nature. Our Orchard Fresh Board is a perfect homage to this splendid season, blending the crispness of orchard fruits with the creamy delight of fine cheeses. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a special weekend treat, this board sets a cozy, festive tone, reminiscent of a stroll through an apple orchard on a brisk fall day.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 8

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

  • 2 crisp apples, sliced
  • 2 ripe pears, sliced
  • 1 bunch of grapes
  • 8 oz. creamy brie cheese
  • 8 oz. aged cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup marcona almonds
  • 2 tbsp honey

Instructions

  1. Begin by preparing your fruits. Slice the apples and pears thinly to showcase their beautiful colors and textures.
  2. Arrange the sliced apples, pears, and a small bunch of grapes on a rustic wooden board or platter.
  3. Cut the brie and aged cheddar into wedges or bite-sized pieces, placing them attractively among the fruit.
  4. Scatter the marcona almonds around the fruits and cheeses, adding a delightful crunch to your board.
  5. Drizzle the honey over the brie for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
  6. Garnish the board with a few fall leaves or small sprigs of herbs for a visually appealing autumnal touch.

Helpful Tips

  • Choose the Best Fruit: Select firm, crisp apples and ripe, juicy pears for the best flavor contrast.
  • Keep Cheese at Room Temperature: Let your cheeses sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Add Variety: For more variety, consider adding figs, dried apricots, or nuts like walnuts or pecans.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers, store sliced fruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cheeses can be wrapped in wax paper and then plastic wrap, kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pairings

This delightful board pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling apple cider. Fresh baguette slices or crackers also pair wonderfully with the cheeses and fruit.

Embrace the flavors of the season with our Orchard Fresh Board, and make every gathering a memorable one! We’d love to see how your boards turn out, so don’t forget to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Visit us at www.zynahz.com and leave your feedback. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and follow us on social media for more culinary inspiration. Happy grazing!

Last Update: November 28, 2024