Getting Cheesy: Choosing the Right Cheese for Every OccasionAfrim Pristine, the maître fromager of Toronto gourmet emporium Cheese Boutique, knows the power of cheese for impressing even the pickiest eater. His fun and easy to work with selection of showstopping cheeses will have you ready to wow guests no matter where your summer socials take you.
For Larger Groups: Emmental & Gruyère
Fondue is a fun and interactive way to feed a large group and try a few different types of cheeses at once. Afrim’s picks of emmental and gruyère pair well for a creamy and delicious combo.
For Outdoor Barbecues: Halloumi
Pairing well with summer-ripe vegetables like tomatoes and eggplant, halloumi can also be grilled on the barbecue for a delicious, smoky experience your guests won’t soon forget.
For Long Weekend Picnics: Cotija
The unofficial cheese of Mexico, cotija has a dry, savoury taste that practically begs to be incorporated into a fresh, chilled gazpacho to be enjoyed on picnics and summer outings.
For a Low-Key Night In: Burrata
The perfect choice for a classic and delicious charcuterie board, burrata pairs well with fresh tomatoes and sliced prosciutto and is a well-received cheese by all. Perfect for a low-key night in or a last-minute hostess gift.
Bonus Cheese for Health Nuts: Ricotta
For those trying to stay on track this summer without missing out, try adding the simple and sweet ricotta to your morning smoothie for an unexpected twist on a classic healthy breakfast. Raspberry makes for a perfect flavour pairing.
The Cheese Boutique is a gourmet emporium that has been supplying Toronto with succulent selections for over 48 years. Owner, maître fromager (cheese master) and author of national best-seller For the Love of Cheese: Recipes and Wisdom from the Cheese Boutique, Afrim Pristine is Canada’s premier cheese expert, with over 23 years of experience in the art of cheese making. From studying with some of the world’s greatest cheesemakers, as well as hands-on training from his father and world’s most renowned dairy farmers, Afrim’s passion and commitment stems from his father and family business.
Want more great food and drink inspiration? Visit our blog for recipe ideas, including Sunday Best Lasagna and Pasta Carbonara, as well as entertaining tips, such as how to host an intimate get-together.
Image courtesy of Saputo (smoothie).