On Valentine’s Day, let cheese create a special night

You can never go wrong with a mixed box of chocolates, and a warm bouquet of roses is always welcome amid the dreary cold of February.

Yet on a day set aside for romance and affection, why not step beyond the predictable? Think outside the chocolate box and incorporate cheese into your Valentine’s Day.

While it might sound, well, “cheesy,” the wide spectrum of textures and flavors opens vast possibilities – from fun to elegant -- when planning a special evening with your significant other. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Set up a wine and cheese pairing: Show your sophisticated side. Both cheese and wine carry exciting complexity and one can accentuate the other. Asiago, for instance, offers pungent and nutty flavors that pair wonderfully with red wines. Gouda pairs well with Riesling. Try a sharp cheddar with Pinot Noir. Click here to learn more about pairing suggestions.

Create a Valentine’s charcuterie board: The candlelight dinner isn’t the only romantic option for Valentine dining. Assemble a charcuterie board with a holiday theme featuring reds, pinks and whites. Go with white cheeses such as mozzarella and provolone. Take an extra step and cut your cheeses into heart shapes. Pair with strawberries and red grapes. Include some sausage, and for vegetables, use cherry tomatoes and red bell pepper slices. Get creative! Set it on the coffee table and snack away while cuddled on the couch with your favorite rom-com.

Make a heart-shaped pizza: There’s something romantic about cooking together. On Valentine’s Day, why not spend some time in the kitchen making something simple that both of you love? Homemade pizza is a fun activity, always delicious and you’ll share something you made as partners. Form your dough into a heart shape, pile it high with quality mozzarella and top it with your shared favorites.

Offer a cheese box: Just about everyone picks up a box of chocolates. Show your significant other how you stand out from the pack. Many specialty cheese shops assemble Valentine’s Day boxes, or you can assemble your own. Take your significant other’s tastes into account and put together a selection of favorites as well as something new. Pair it with a pun and attach a card: perhaps “Brie Mine” or “We’re Gouda Together.”

A fondue night for two: A fondue night makes for a classic romantic evening. Provide the sweet and savory. In one pot, offer melted chocolate with fruits and cookies for dipping. In another, bring together a variety of cheeses and serve with brioche cubes, vegetables and meats.

Cheese is a staple food around the world because it’s wholesome, delicious and comforting. It’s the perfect food to share with those we love.

Agropur is a North American dairy industry leader, producing more than 1 billion pounds of high-quality cheese every year. Our cheeses continually earn top honors at the world’s most prestigious contests. Click here to learn more about Agropur cheese.