While we're on the topic of goodies you might find in a cheese shop, let me add a few more that you might want to try. We all know that fruit (sliced apples and pears, grapes, figs, etc..) are a nice addition to a cheese plate but if you want to try something slightly new think about serving a fruit spread. Especially during winter when fresh fruit is scarce, I like to serve these Five Fruit Spreads with cheese.

Cheese stores are full of interesting and sometimes hard-to-identify garnishes for cheese. Most garnishes tend to be sweet (think fruit spreads and honey) and are meant to contrast the salty flavor of cheese. The popularity of Spanish cheeses has brought with it a number of tasty garnishes imported from Spain, including these three most commonly sold Spanish cheese garnishes.

Many cheese stores buy these three garnishes in bulk and package them in the store. This means you can often ask for a specific amount, whether it be a $5 piece of quince paste or a $15 piece.

While these garnishes are uniquely Spanish, they often pair well with other cheeses too, like Gouda, Cheddar and fresh goat cheese.

Over the past five years or so Drunken Goat may have singlehandedly introduced more people to goat cheese than any other cheese out there. I have absolutely no market research to prove this, it's just a hunch based on how many people I've heard ask for it over the years in cheese shops.

Drunken Goat is indeed a crowd pleaser. It has a lovely purple rind, somewhat soft texture and is not at all "goaty". The flavor is more mild than strong with a slight hint of fruitiness from the wine. I like eating it with cured meats from Spain - chorizo, serrano jamon, etc. - and a glass of red wine from Spain.

Tired of serving the same appetizers to guests all the time? Or forget about the guests, are you tired of the same old food and flavors all the time? This year, resolve to expand your palate with easy little dishes like Feta with Oranges and Pistachios. This type of appetizer can be served at brunch, in the evening or even after a meal instead of dessert.