Cheese Knives

A lot of planning and preparation goes into organized social gatherings. One of the easiest hors d'oeuvres to prepare for a party or other social gathering is a cheese plate. Relatively little effort is required to prepare a plate that is both delicious and visually appealing to your guests. One element of presentation includes the cheese knives used to cut and serve the cheeses. Simple handles are the most elegant, provided they are of sturdy quality. The knife should not be able to shift within the handle when it is used to cut or spread food. If it does so, the item is not of quality construction.

Choosing cheese knives with the appropriate blade ensures that the visual accessory serves its proper function as well. Softer cheeses call for a flat blade that is similar to a butter knife in sharpness, and resembling the type used in bakeries to spread frosting in width and appearance. This allows for a smooth spread without tearing the bread or crackers on which the cheese is being spread. Firmer cheeses, such as those with a stiff rind, may require a sharper blade. Smaller cheese knives, with short, sharp blades, allow for cutting smaller and more precise pieces.

Catering to Your Guests

Smaller cheese knives, while allowing for precision, may be difficult for guests to use if they do not have the dexterity to handle a smaller utensil. These types of knives may also pose a risk for small children partaking in the fun. A simple solution is to swap your cheese knives for a wire cheese cutter. A thin piece of wire is pulled taught between two prongs of a sturdy handle shaped like a wishbone. The wire is not sharp to the touch, reducing the risk of injury. However, when pulled down through a block of most varieties of cheese, this alternative to cheese knives makes a smooth slice.

Another alternative to the "slice your own" approach is to precut your cheeses before placing them on the platter. This should be done within an hour of the party, because some cheeses can develop a hard skin when exposed to the air for too long. In this case, decorative toothpicks can be placed in each piece, allowing guests to pick and choose their favorite varieties from the cheese plate without the need to include cheese knives. Toothpicks now come in a wide variety of colors, some with decorative touches, so finding some to complement the rest of your party décor should be quite easy.

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