Cheese 101

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Anna Williams

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It’s a satisfying snack and an easy appetizer. Here’s what you need to know about choosing, storing, serving, and sampling cheese.

Cheese VarietiesA primer on the basic varieties, plus a few delicious examples of each type.
How to Store CheeseFollow these tips to keep fromage fresh.
The Perfect Cheese PlatterWhat to buy―and how much―to create a delightful and delicious spread.

Dinner Party Checklist

Table set, flowers arranged, music ready? Yes, yes, and yes. Coat closet cleared? Err. A step-by-step to-do list lays out the details for you, eliminating last-minute hostess frenzy.

Choose a theme, if you want one. Decide whether it will be an elegant soiree or a cozy supper, then think about a theme in terms of season, occasion, and guest list. Make, buy, or borrow any related decorations you might need.
Extend invitations. Mail, phone, and e-mail invites are all acceptable; the more formal the dinner, the more appropriate a written invitation, perhaps tied into the theme. Include such details as the date and time (typically 7 p.m., which allows an hour for cocktails, appetizers, and mingling), the deadline to RSVP (a week before party day), your address, and suggested attire if formal.
Plan the menu. Keep it fairly simple, including make-ahead dishes if possible (so you don’t spend too much time running in and out of the kitchen), and take the weather into consideration.

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How To: Open a Bottle of Wine

There are plenty of corkscrews loaded with bells and whistles out there, but don’t fall for them: A simple, classic waiter’s corkscrew―the type used in most restaurants―is really all you need. Here’s how to use it properly.