How to Make Ossau-Iraty Platter (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Ossau-Iraty is one of France’s most celebrated sheep’s milk cheeses, hailing from the picturesque Basque and Béarn regions in the southwest. Protected with AOP status, this cheese is crafted using time-honored methods, lending it a creamy, nutty flavor and a subtle, grassy aroma. Traditionally enjoyed as a side dish or part of a cheese course, Ossau-Iraty is a staple on French tables, often paired with fresh fruits, rustic bread, and a touch of local black cherry jam for balance. This healthy Ossau-Iraty platter highlights the cheese’s natural goodness while keeping calories in check. By combining wholesome accompaniments like seasonal fruit, whole-grain bread, and crunchy vegetables, you create a nutrient-rich, authentic French side that’s simple, yet refined. Perfect for entertaining or as a light lunch, this dish brings a taste of France’s pastoral landscapes to your table and embodies the country’s appreciation for high-quality, artisanal foods.
Ingredients
- 120g Ossau-Iraty cheese (cut into thin slices)
- 4 slices Whole-grain baguette (pain complet)
- 2 Fresh figs (quartered)
- 1 Red apples (thinly sliced)
- 2 tsp French black cherry jam (confiture de cerises noires)
- 2 tbsp Mixed nuts (unsalted, preferably walnuts or hazelnuts)
- 1/2 cup Carrot sticks (fresh, for crunch)
- 1/2 cup Baby arugula (roquette, for garnish)
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Slice the Ossau-Iraty cheese into thin
Slice the Ossau-Iraty cheese into thin, even slices for easy serving and optimal flavor release.
Step 2 · Wash and quarter the fresh figs
Wash and quarter the fresh figs. Core and thinly slice the apple. Arrange fruit attractively on a serving platter.
Step 3 · Cut the whole-grain baguette into slices and lightly toast if desir...
Cut the whole-grain baguette into slices and lightly toast if desired for extra crunch.
Step 4 · Arrange carrot sticks and baby arugula on the platter for color and...
Arrange carrot sticks and baby arugula on the platter for color and freshness.
Step 5 · Add mixed nuts to the platter
Add mixed nuts to the platter, distributing them evenly for texture and healthy fats.
Step 6 · Spoon a small amount of black cherry jam onto the side of the platter
Spoon a small amount of black cherry jam onto the side of the platter.
Step 7 · Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper over the chee...
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper over the cheese and arugula, if desired. Serve immediately.
Why this recipe is healthy
By pairing moderate portions of authentic Ossau-Iraty with fiber-rich whole grains, fresh produce, and unsalted nuts, this platter offers sustained energy and supports healthy digestion. The recipe avoids excessive saturated fats and added sugars, making it suitable for most diets. Its simple, whole-food ingredients promote satiety and fit well into calorie-conscious and nutrient-focused meal plans.
A note on tradition
Ossau-Iraty cheese is a symbol of the Basque and Béarn regions, with roots tracing back hundreds of years to traditional shepherding practices in the Pyrenees. Often served as part of a cheese course or as a side at family gatherings, it is especially prized during local festivals celebrating regional foods. Combining it with fruit and nuts is a beloved French custom, highlighting both the cheese’s quality and the bounty of the region.