Sun-Drenched Mediterranean Cheeseboard with Cauliflower Hummus

Build the Ultimate Mediterranean Cheeseboard: A Step-by-Step Guide with Easy Cauliflower Hummus Recipe

There’s an undeniable allure to a well-crafted cheeseboard. Whether it’s the centerpiece of a festive gathering or a relaxed evening snack, a vibrant platter brimming with delectable bites instantly elevates any occasion. I confess, when I spot a cheeseboard at a party, it’s my first destination. There’s simply nothing quite like savoring the diverse flavors and captivating textures – in fact, I often find myself making an entire meal out of the carefully selected cheeses, crunchy nuts, briny olives, fresh vegetables, sweet fruits, and flavorful dips. With a variety of crackers, artisan breads, and savory sauces, a cheeseboard truly offers something delightful for every palate.

This insightful guide is proudly sponsored by Paisley Farm. All opinions and culinary creations expressed herein are authentically my own. We appreciate your support for the brands and products that enable us to share delicious recipes and engaging stories on An Affair from the Heart.

Contents

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. Should you choose to make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support this blog, allowing me to continue bringing you creative recipes and engaging content. For a comprehensive overview of my disclosure policy, please CLICK HERE.

Unlock the Flavors of the Mediterranean: Why a Cheeseboard?

The beauty of a Mediterranean-inspired cheeseboard lies in its vibrant colors, diverse textures, and refreshing flavors, all echoing the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean. It’s an effortless way to entertain, allowing hosts to spend more time with guests and less time in the kitchen. When Paisley Farm introduced their exciting new line of products, now conveniently available at Kroger stores, my culinary imagination immediately sparked with ideas. Their new 24-ounce jars are packed with fantastic items like Sweet Cauliflower, Hot and Dilled Brussels Sprouts, and Asian and Southwest Bean Salad, complementing their existing favorites like Five Bean Salad and Sweet Pickled Beets. These products are a game-changer for easy entertaining, making it incredibly simple to create gourmet-quality dishes without extensive preparation. Just recently, I showcased their Hot Brussels Sprouts in a delightful Brussels Sprouts Gratin recipe. This time, I knew I wanted to create something truly special for holiday parties and family gatherings: a stunning cheeseboard.

Bringing a meticulously arranged cheeseboard to any social event is always a delight. Not only is it universally loved, but the visual presentation itself is often breathtaking, becoming an instant conversation starter. There’s a misconception that creating such a masterpiece requires professional skill or an artistic flair, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Just the other day, my aunt expressed her desire to build impressive cheeseboards, lamenting, “I wish I could build a cheeseboard like you do. Mine would never look like that.” I assured her – and I assure you – it’s genuinely simple, and I’m here to show you exactly how.

Beyond the Board: Creative Platters for Your Mediterranean Spread

You don’t need a fancy, high-dollar cheeseboard to create an out-of-this-world presentation. The secret lies in abundant ingredients and thoughtful arrangement, regardless of the surface. Here are several practical and stylish alternatives you can use to build your impressive platter:

A Sturdy Cookie Sheet: Ideal for larger gatherings, a clean cookie sheet provides ample space. Line it with parchment paper for an easy cleanup and a neutral background that makes your ingredients pop.
A Classic Cutting Board: Whether wood, bamboo, or marble, a large cutting board offers a rustic and inviting base. Choose one with a nice grain or unique shape to add character.
A Clean Blackboard: For a dramatic and modern touch, a large, clean blackboard makes an excellent canvas. You can even use chalk to label your cheeses or add decorative flourishes directly on the board.
A Grand Meat Platter: Often designed with raised edges, a large serving platter is perfect for containing all your delightful components and preventing any spills.
Round or Oval Larger Plates: For smaller, more intimate gatherings, an oversized decorative plate can serve as a charming mini-cheeseboard, making it easy to pass around.
A Simple Pizza Pan: Surprisingly versatile, a round pizza pan offers a great circular foundation. Its slightly raised edge helps keep everything neatly contained, making it both functional and appealing.

To add dynamic height and visual intrigue to your cheeseboard, incorporate an assortment of small bowls, ramekins, or even shot glasses. These can hold dips, olives, nuts, or small fruit portions, creating varied levels and preventing flavors from mingling prematurely. A few sprigs of fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, artfully tucked around your ingredients will instantly elevate the aesthetic, making your platter look professionally curated. Here, I’ve used a shot glass to artfully display pear slices, with grapes elegantly draped around its base, demonstrating how simple touches can make a big difference.

Before we embark on the exciting journey of assembling our magnificent Mediterranean-inspired cheeseboard, let’s first prepare a key component that will truly set it apart: our unique and incredibly flavorful Cauliflower Hummus.

Crafting Your Signature Cauliflower Hummus: A Game Changer

I have a culinary confession to make: for years, I never truly enjoyed traditional hummus. The primary reason? Chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, as some call them. It was a textural barrier I simply couldn’t overcome. Then, a revelation! I discovered that it’s entirely possible to make hummus *without* chickpeas, and a whole new world of delicious possibilities unfolded before me. For this exceptional recipe, I’ve opted for creamy white beans, specifically Great Northern Beans, and the star ingredient: Paisley Farm’s New Sweet Cauliflower. This pairing is absolutely perfect. Many hummus recipes rely on a tangy element, typically derived from lemon juice. Paisley Farm’s Sweet Cauliflower, however, brings its own delightful tanginess, naturally infused through their expert pickling process. This not only eliminates the need for extra lemon but also imparts a complex, subtly sweet, and tangy flavor that traditional hummus often lacks.

Essential Ingredients for Your Luscious Cauliflower Hummus:

Crafting this unique hummus requires just a handful of simple yet potent ingredients:

Great Northern Beans: These provide a wonderfully creamy base, replacing chickpeas for a smoother texture that many prefer.
Paisley Farm Sweet Cauliflower: The secret ingredient! It introduces a delicate sweetness and a perfectly balanced tang, eliminating the need for lemon juice.
Minced Garlic: Adds a foundational aromatic and savory depth that is essential to any great hummus.
Sesame Oil: Contributes a rich, nutty flavor that is characteristic of traditional hummus (tahini is often used for this, but sesame oil offers a convenient and equally delicious alternative).
Cumin: This warm, earthy spice is crucial for that classic Mediterranean taste profile.
Rosemary: Aromatic and slightly piney, rosemary beautifully complements the cauliflower and adds a sophisticated herbaceous note.
Salt & Pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors, adjusted to your personal preference.

Preparing this hummus couldn’t be easier. Simply combine all the listed ingredients – Great Northern Beans, Paisley Farm Sweet Cauliflower, minced garlic, sesame oil, cumin, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper – into your food processor or mini food chopper. Set it to puree, and in mere seconds, you’ll have a luxuriously smooth, flavorful hummus ready to enjoy. It’s that quick and straightforward!

This delectable Cauliflower Hummus is wonderful served simply with warm pita bread or a colorful array of crisp vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, and cucumber slices. Or, even better, let it be the star dip on your magnificent Mediterranean Cheeseboard!

^LOVE IT? Pin this Cauliflower Hummus recipe for easy access whenever you need it!^

Assembling Your Breathtaking Mediterranean Cheeseboard: A Step-by-Step Visual Guide

Does that not look utterly exquisite? The best part is, it came together in just minutes. I’m excited to walk you through the process of creating this stunning cheeseboard with simple, easy-to-follow steps. Feel free to replicate my exact arrangement or let it inspire you to select your own favorite Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

Key Ingredients for Your Mediterranean Cheeseboard Masterpiece:

Cauliflower Hummus: Our star homemade dip, as pictured and prepared above.
Pita Slices: Warm or toasted, essential for dipping into the hummus and pairing with cheeses.
Cheeses: A delightful trio like tangy Goat cheese, crumbly Feta, and smoky Gouda.
Fruits: Refreshing Grapes and crisp Pears add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Olives: Briny Kalamata olives and Spanish Queen olives, especially those stuffed with feta cheese, are a must.
Fresh Produce: Juicy Heirloom Grape Tomatoes and cool Cucumbers bring freshness and crunch.
Nuts: Earthy Pistachios, a classic Mediterranean favorite, for a satisfying crunch.
Paisley Farm Delights: Their distinct Sweet Cauliflower (perfect for adding directly to the board) and tangy Dilled Brussels Sprouts for a unique pickled element.
Crackers: Choose varieties that complement the flavors, such as Rosemary Triscuits for an aromatic crunch.

Step 1: Anchor Your Board with Dips and Breads

I began by using a wooden cheeseboard with a chalkboard inset, measuring approximately 17″ x 10″. Remember, you don’t need an enormous board; a thoughtfully arranged smaller platter can be just as impactful. First, place your freshly made Cauliflower Hummus in a small bowl, positioning it securely in one corner of your chosen board. This acts as an anchor. Next, gracefully arrange your pita bread triangles around the hummus, creating an inviting crescent shape that beckons guests to dip in.

Step 2: Introduce Sweetness with Fresh Fruits

Now, let’s infuse some delightful sweetness and vibrant color into our spread. For this board, I chose crisp pears, artfully sliced, and succulent grapes, which add both flavor and visual appeal. When selecting fruits for a Mediterranean theme, consider other fantastic options such as sweet figs, unique persimmons, jewel-toned pomegranates, or bright mandarines. Arrange your chosen fruits in clusters or flowing lines to create natural partitions and enhance the overall aesthetic.

Step 3: Curate Your Mediterranean Cheese Selection

No cheeseboard is complete without an enticing array of cheeses, and a Mediterranean selection offers incredible variety. I opted for a trio: a soft, creamy goat cheese, delicately flavored with garlic and herbs; crumbled feta, offering its signature salty tang; and for contrast, a firmer cheese like smoked Gouda, which brings a beautiful depth of flavor. Other excellent Mediterranean cheese choices include the grillable Halloumi, fresh and mild ricotta, sharp Pecorino, and nutty Manchego. Arrange your cheeses strategically, cutting some into wedges or cubes and leaving others whole, to invite guests to explore the different textures.

Step 4: Elevate with Olives and Briny Bites

One of my absolute favorite elements of any cheeseboard, especially a Mediterranean one, is the olives! Their briny, savory notes provide a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the cheeses and the sweetness of the fruits. I included both classic Kalamata olives, known for their deep, fruity flavor, and plump Spanish Queen olives, thoughtfully stuffed with creamy feta cheese, adding another layer of texture and taste. Place them in small bowls to contain their brine and arrange them strategically for easy access.

Step 5: Incorporate Healthy Nuts and Crisp Vegetables

To add crunch and a dose of healthy fats, I included pistachios, which are native to the Mediterranean region and boast a delightful, earthy flavor. Alongside these, I scattered vibrant heirloom grape tomatoes and refreshing cucumber slices, providing fresh, crisp elements. Other excellent Mediterranean choices for this section include thinly sliced zucchini, colorful bell peppers, tender broccoli florets, and a variety of other nuts such as almonds and walnuts. Fill in any remaining gaps on your board with these smaller items, ensuring a bountiful and appealing look.

Step 6: The Finishing Touches: Pickled Delights and Crackers

For the grand finale, I thoughtfully incorporated more of Paisley Farm’s exceptional products. Their Dilled Brussels Sprouts and the remaining Sweet Cauliflower add a fantastic tangy kick and a unique pickled crunch that beautifully complements the other flavors. Instead of traditional pickles often found on cheese platters, these pickled vegetables offer a sophisticated and distinct twist, truly rounding out our Mediterranean feast. Finally, strategically place your chosen crackers; I used rosemary-flavored Triscuits, whose herbal notes paired wonderfully with the cheeses and dips. Don’t forget to include small spreaders, spoons, and mini-forks for a civilized and hygienic serving experience, ensuring everyone can enjoy the spread with ease.

Paisley Farm Dilled Brussels Sprouts on a Mediterranean Inspired Cheeseboard

If you’re a fan of Brussels Sprouts, these Dilled Brussels Sprouts from Paisley Farm are an absolute must-try! Their zesty flavor and satisfying crunch are simply irresistible.

^LOVE IT? PIN IT NOW and share the Mediterranean deliciousness!^

At the heart of Paisley Farm, you’ll find a commitment to quality that dates back to its founder, J.W. Paisley. This enduring ethic means every Paisley Farm product is crafted from the freshest ingredients, ensuring a taste of authentic flavor in every single spoonful. Their dedication to fresh, delicious ingredients makes them a perfect partner for creating truly memorable culinary experiences.

My friends at Paisley Farm and I are always thrilled to share innovative and mouthwatering recipes with you! Discover ALL of My Paisley Farm Recipes Here, and be sure to visit the official Paisley Farm website for a full range of products, more inspiring recipes, and convenient store locations. Stay connected with Paisley Farm on FaceBook, Instagram, and Pinterest, where they consistently share fantastic new recipes and helpful product tips throughout the year!

Ready to impress your guests and delight your family? Let’s get cooking and build this beautiful Mediterranean-Inspired Cheeseboard, starting with our incredibly easy Cauliflower Hummus!

Cheers to delicious entertaining!

Cauliflower Hummus Recipe

LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!

Average rating: 5 out of 5 stars from 11 votes.

Print Recipe

Cauliflower Hummus Recipe – Plus a step by step guide to building the perfect Mediterranean inspired cheeseboard.

Hummus made without chickpeas. Made with white beans and sweet pickled cauliflower.

Prep Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 5 mins

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keyword: Cauliflower Hummus

Servings: 2 cups

Calories: 30 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Ingredients

¾ cup canned Great Northern Beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup Paisley Farm Sweet Cauliflower
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Sesame oil
¾ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon rosemary
Salt & Pepper to taste
Olive oil for serving

Instructions

Place all of the ingredients, except for the olive oil, into a food processor.
Puree until the mixture is completely blended and smooth.
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle lightly with olive oil just before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Any uneaten hummus should be placed in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days.

Notes

Ingredients Needed for Mediterranean Cheeseboard:

Cauliflower Hummus, As Prepared Above
Pita slices
Cheeses like Goat, Feta, and Smoked Gouda
Fruits like Grapes and Pears
Olives like Kalamata and Spanish Feta Stuffed
Fresh Produce like Heirloom Grape Tomatoes and Cucumbers
Nuts like Pistachios
Paisley Farm Sweet Cauliflower and Dilled Brussels Sprouts
Crackers like Rosemary Triscuits

Nutrition