Seasonal Cheese Pairings: What to Enjoy Each Season

Seasonal cheese pairing comes naturally if you think about it. Each season has its own set of classic tastes and textures that can be linked to specific cheeses. Knowing which ingredients complement which cheese helps you create an unforgettable experience.

Here’s a guide to cheese pairings that bring out the best of each season, with ideas to inspire your table year-round.

Spring: Fresh and Zesty

Spring is a time for renewal, and fresh flavors dominate as gardens burst to life. Soft cheeses like chèvre (goat cheese), ricotta, and mozzarella work beautifully with spring’s bounty. Chèvre’s tangy notes blend perfectly with ingredients like sweet, dried strawberries or fresh peas.

Pairing idea: A spring cheese board with chèvre, strawberries, sugar snap peas, mixed nuts, and a drizzle of honey. Add a handful of toasted almonds or a few sprigs of mint for added freshness. Pretty-up your board with edible spring flowers like nasturtiums.

For something more savory, layer ricotta or goat’s cheese on toast and top it with sliced radishes, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of sea salt. The peppery bite of radish against creamy ricotta creates a balanced flavor that screams spring.

Summer: Bright and Juicy

Summer’s bounty brings vibrant, juicy produce that begs to be paired with creamy, mild cheeses. Yogurt cheese and double cream gouda are excellent choices for hot-weather dishes. Yogurt cheese’s creamy, milky interior pairs beautifully with tomatoes and fresh basil. Gouda, on the other hand, is tastyb with rich, sun-ripened fruits like watermelon and peaches.

Pairing idea: Make a summery salad by tossing chunks of juicy watermelon, gouda, fresh mint, and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds.

For an extra touch, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top.

Alternatively, use yogurt cheese in a simple Caprese salad (instead of traditional fresh mozzarella) with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with crusty bread for a Mediterranean-inspired pairing perfect for balmy summer evenings.

Fall: Earthy and Warm

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, it’s time to embrace hearty, earthier flavors. Garlic cheddar, gruyère, and blue cheese all complement the cozy, nutty taste of fall produce. Apples, pears, figs, and nuts are natural companions to these cheeses, enhancing their rich, layered flavors.

Pairing idea: For a seasonal cheese board, pair the cheddar with apple butter, pumpkin butter, cinnamon almonds, and a dollop of fig jam. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors is autumn on a plate.

Another idea is to make a warm, gooey gruyère fondue with cubed roasted squash, mushrooms, and hearty bread on the side.

The earthy, caramelized flavors of the roasted vegetables add a rustic depth to the creamy cheese.

Winter: Rich and Indulgent

Winter calls for cheeses with deep, robust flavors that match the season’s indulgence. Provolone, camembert, and pecorino offer comforting richness that works well with winter fruits like pomegranates, citrus, cranberries, and dried figs.

Warming spices like cinnamon and cloves also add holiday charm to cheese pairings.

Pairing idea: Baked camembert topped with blackberry pecan syrup, toasted cashews, and a drizzle of honey is a classic winter dish that combines sweet, tart, and creamy textures. Serve with sliced baguette for a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.

Or, try a wedge of pecorino with blood orange slices, arugula, and a light vinaigrette for a simple yet luxurious winter salad that balances the cheese’s sharpness with citrusy brightness.

Bringing It All Together

Cheese pairings don’t have to be complicated—let the season’s ingredients guide you.

From fresh spring berries to hearty winter nuts and fruit, seasonal pairings allow you to enjoy cheese at its peak and celebrate the flavors of each season.

Experiment with local produce and some of our cheeses, and you’ll discover new combinations that make each season a little more delicious.