How to create a Killer Cheese Plate Using Only Trader Joe’s Items

I know i’m not alone in my LOVE for Trader Joe’s. My kids love their stuff, the prices are reasonable, and let’s be honest… their pre-prepared stuff is ALWAYS a good idea. We have been entertaining a lot lately (hello Holiday season) and cheese plates are one of my FAVORITE things to whip up in a hurry. I’ve been doing them a ton lately and thought I would share my tips on creating a killer cheese plate using only items from good ol’ Trader Joe’s!

I just love seeing people eyes light up when they walk into a room and there’s a killer cheese set up on display!  It’s always such a pleasant surprise and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. My theory is the more items the better! I love a huge variety and pairing different items together. Even my kiddos go nuts for a good cheese plate. So let’s dive right in and i’ll share my Trader Joe cheese plate staples….

The Goods!

A Variety of Crackers

On top of LOTS of cheese, TJ’s cracker selection is on point. A family favorite is the Fruit & Nut Crisps. They’re pretty to present, have lots of goodies inside, and are yummy. I like to have mine pre sliced and ready for grabbing 😉 If you’re looking for a one stop shop, their Variety Pack is the best. It has about five different varieties of crackers and is under $4! You seriously can’t be that. A classic baguette is always nice touch.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit and cheese is one of the best combos EVER, so I’ll include dried cherries, apricots, etc. They add a pop of color and some new texture to the board. This cheese plate I added some fresh blackberries and they were actually the first to go, so ill definitely be adding them to future plates as well.

A Spread

We’re obsessed with the fig jam from Whole Foods, but it is kind of pricey. I saw this Fig Butter at Trader Joes’ and had to try it.  I still like the Whole Foods fig jam better but this one is still delish and definitely more affordable. It’s really good under cheese, too. I also suggest snagging a thing of honey (you can put it in a smaller dish to make a prettier presentation). A cracker or baguette with parmesan and a little honey is my jammmm. I’m all about that salty and sweet combo.

Something Salty

If you’re trying to keep your cost down, the Greek Olive Medley is a great option. I’m not big on the kalamata olives so much so I picked out most of them for my plate in this post. I love the big green ones (I can’t remember the name off the time of my head but they sell them at Whole Foods too)

Something Crunchy

I could eat an entire bag of candied walnuts in one sitting, so obviously I add them to my cheese platters. They add a nice crunch, a different kind of sweet compared to the fruit, and hey, a little protein right?? I made the mistake of pairing them with my dark chocolate and it was HEAVENLY (needless to say I had way more of them then I should have 😉

I’ll add Marcona Almonds with Rosemary in case someone doesn’t like candied as well. I’ve also had the Truffled Macrona Almonds from Traders too. If you’re into truffled, they are SO good.

Cheese

And finally, the best part! I like to try different kinds, but some  go-to’s no brainers are goat, brie, and cheddar.

The Silver Goat Cheese is a little citrusy and super fresh, and I love any of their brie’s. For the kiddos, I cut cheddar string cheese into cubes. Everyone likes a little cheddar, and that way we have leftovers for the kids’ lunches.

And now I’m hungry lol! I hope this is helpful for your next get together. Any other TJ’s Favorites I should be adding to my list? please share! xo

and lastly i’ve rounded up some really great entertaining pieces at all price points for you girls….