The Best French Appetizers to Serve with a Cheese Plate

When it comes to hosting a gathering or a cozy dinner, an exquisite cheese plate can set the tone for a delightful culinary experience. To elevate your cheese plate, consider serving it alongside some of the best French appetizers. Here are some fantastic options that will impress your guests and complement your selection of cheeses.

1. Charcuterie Board
A classic French charcuterie board is a must-have alongside your cheese plate. Featuring a variety of cured meats such as saucisson, pâté, and prosciutto, this ensemble adds a savory touch. Pair it with some fine olives, pickles, and mustard for a balanced flavor profile that enhances the richness of the cheeses.

2. Gougères
These delightful cheese puffs are made from choux pastry mixed with cheese—typically Gruyère. Gougères are light, airy, and bursting with cheesy flavor. They serve as a wonderful finger food and can be easily enjoyed while mingling.

3. Tapenade
A traditional Provençal spread, tapenade is made mainly from olives, capers, and anchovies. It’s the perfect dip for crusty French baguette slices or crackers. The bold flavors of tapenade beautifully complement soft and creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert.

4. Ratatouille Bites
Ratatouille is a classic French dish made of seasonal vegetables and herbs. Serve it as a cold appetizer in small cups or on toasted baguette slices. This colorful and flavorful dish adds a fresh touch that balances the richness of the cheeses.

5. Pissaladière
Originating from Nice, pissaladière is a savory tart topped with caramelized onions, olives, and anchovies. Its robust flavor pairs wonderfully with various cheeses while its flaky pastry provides a delightful crunch. Cut into small squares for easy serving.

6. Cruditès with Herb Dip
Add a refreshing element to your cheese plate with a platter of cruditès—an assortment of sliced raw vegetables. Serve them with a creamy herb dip made from crème fraîche, herbs, and garlic. This light, healthy option perfectly offsets the heavier cheese selections.

7. Brie en Croûte
Brie en croûte, or baked Brie wrapped in puff pastry, is a showstopper. This warm, gooey cheese is often served with a layer of fruit preserves or nuts inside the pastry. The melted cheese pairs perfectly with fresh fruits and crackers, enriching the overall taste experience.

8. French Onion Soup Bites
For a unique twist, serve mini bites of French onion soup. Use crusty bread to hold small servings of the caramelized onion and broth mixture, topped with melted cheese. These bites are sure to be a hit among your guests.

9. Escargots de Bourgogne
For the adventurous eater, escargots de Bourgogne (snails) prepared with garlic and parsley butter offer an authentic French touch. Serve them in their shells or in a small dish. This rich flavor pairs surprisingly well with creamy cheeses like Roquefort.

10. French Almond Cakes
Round off your appetizer selection with small almond cakes, or financiers, as a sweet complement to your cheese. Their moist texture and almond flavor provide a delightful contrast that sweetens the palate after savoring rich cheeses.

Creating a memorable cheese plate is all about balance and variety. By incorporating these delectable French appetizers, you’ll provide a stunning spread that highlights the distinct flavors of each component. Your guests will be delighted by this culinary journey through France, making your event unforgettable.