All posts by Natural Pastures

5 Snow Day Recipes for Natural Pastures Ricotta

Check out these 5 Recipes to get you excited about having a day home making the coziest meal for tonight on this snow day!

We’ve got something fresh and delicious waiting for you at the Natural Pastures Cheese Company—our fresh ricotta is in stock this week! Made with care right here in Courtenay, BC. It’s light, creamy, with a slight caramel finish and perfect for adding a touch of indulgence to your favorite dishes.

Swing by our Artisan Cheese Shop on McPhee at 6th, open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, to pick up a tub of this freshly made goodness. Need some culinary inspiration? Keep reading for 5 easy and mouthwatering recipe ideas that showcase just how versatile fresh ricotta can be!

Items in the recipe you can also pick up while you are at the shop.
Natural Pastures Pacific Parmesan, Natural Pastures Cultured Churned Butter, and Jenny’s Crackers

5 Irresistible Ricotta Recipes to Elevate Your Culinary Creations

Ricotta cheese, with its creamy texture and mild flavor, is a versatile ingredient that can transform both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer, a comforting main course, or a delightful dessert, ricotta is your go-to ingredient. Here are five irresistible ricotta recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure.

1. Whipped Ricotta with Honey and Fresh Herbs
Perfect as an appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh herbs (like thyme, basil, or mint), finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whip the ricotta with a hand mixer until light and creamy.
  2. Drizzle in the olive oil and honey, then fold in the fresh herbs.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a delightful, creamy spread.

2. Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A comforting, cheesy classic.
Ingredients:

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture.
  5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish, arrange the stuffed shells, and top with remaining sauce and mozzarella.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

3. Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Fluffy, zesty, and perfect for brunch or breakfast for dinner!
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs, separated
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Butter for cooking

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, combine ricotta, milk, egg yolks, lemon zest, and juice.
  3. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the batter.
  5. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Pour batter to form pancakes and cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
  6. Serve with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

4. Ricotta Gnocchi
Light, pillowy gnocchi with a delicate flavor.
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
  2. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, divide into portions, and roll into ropes.
  4. Cut into 1-inch pieces and lightly dust with flour.
  5. Boil salted water and cook gnocchi until they float to the surface (2-3 minutes).
  6. Serve with your favorite sauce, like brown butter and sage or marinara.

5. Ricotta Cheesecake
A creamy, slightly tangy dessert that’s lighter than traditional cheesecake.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, beat ricotta and sugar until smooth.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
  4. Stir in vanilla, lemon zest, and flour.
  5. Pour into a greased springform pan.
  6. Bake for 50-60 minutes until set and lightly golden.
  7. Cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Ricotta cheese isn’t just for lasagna—its versatility shines in sweet and savory dishes alike. Try these recipes and discover new ways to enjoy this creamy, delightful ingredient. What’s your favorite ricotta recipe?
Post it to Instagram with #Findnaturalpasturescheese so we can check out your creations!
Have a great snow day Comox Valley!

The perfect 7 cheeses for your cheese board

A Guide to Balanced Flavors and Pairings – by Anyssa Jane

When crafting the ultimate cheese board, achieving a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and visual appeal is key. A well-thought-out selection can elevate any gathering, delighting your guests with each bite. Our suggested lineup of 7 cheeses, perfectly packaged in a catering pack, includes a mix of aged, creamy, smoky, and spicy options that cater to a variety of palates. And to top it all off, we’ll add a velvety Camembert for that extra touch of indulgence. Paired with local artisan jam, pickled grapes, and gourmet crackers, this board is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details. (Order your 8 pack to pick up in THE Artisan Cheese Shop in Courtenay!)

The Perfect Cheese Selection

  1. Aged Farmhouse – With its nutty, complex flavors and crumbly texture, this cheese provides pair wonderfully with artisan jam. pair wonderfully with artisan jam. This Bourenkaas style cheese has been aged for 2 years to compete with the flavor crystals and stone fruit finish of a similar aged cheddar. Strong, sweet and crumbly it is perfect with wine or whiskey. 
  2. Boerenkaas – Dutch for ‘Farmer’s Cheese,’ award-winning Boerenkaas has a sweet nutty flavor and bold, tangy finish. A ripened cheese, it is superb in soups, salads, omelettes, and it also shines on a cheese board alongside pickled grapes.
  3. Smoked Boerenkaas – A smoky twist on the classic Boerenkaas, this cheese offers a bold, savory flavor that contrasts beautifully with the delicate creaminess of Camembert. Smoked from local apple trees right here in the Comox Valley it pair with honey, beer and coffee easily.
  4. Courtenay Cheddar – The ‘terroir’ is the sense of place of a cheese or a wine that is conveyed by the distinctive flavors of its geographical location and the environment in which it is ‘grown.’ Salty ocean air. Our cheddar embodies the essence of the lush Comox Valley. It’s creamy texture and a balanced tanginess, making it perfect for melting or adding depth to sandwiches and casseroles. Pair it with crisp crackers for a satisfying crunch.
  5. Pacific Pepper Verdelait – Vibrant, sassy cheese with the inferno finish of local Paper Lantern habañero peppers and premium, black pepper. Brilliant on it’s own, but it also shines on nachos, grilled on soup  and great with a robust red wine or full-bodied beer.
  6. Amsterdammer –  A favorite with Comox Valley locals. A perfect cheese for cooking, melting and sandwiches. It has a buttery creamy, mild, and fights with no one. Good on a sandwich, with a glass of wine, whisky or coffee. 
  7. Camembert – Soft and creamy, with a bloomy rind and earthy undertones, Camembert adds an element of indulgence. Serve it warmed slightly, with a dollop of jam or a sprinkling of fresh herbs.  We also make a triple cream camembert at Christmas and Mothers day! 

Building the Perfect Pairings

To complement the cheeses, we love to quote Brenda from 40 Knots Winery, “What grows together – Goes together”

Somethings to include!

  • Local Artisan Jam – The sweet and tangy flavors enhance the creamy and sharp profiles of the cheeses. Look for seasonal options like blackberry or fig.
  • Pickled Grapes – These provide a unique burst of tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
  • Gourmet Crackers – A mix of plain, seeded, and flavored crackers adds texture and variety to your board.
  • Charcuterie from Powell River’s Brut Charcuterie – The rich, savory flavors of artisan meats from Brut Charcuterie complement the cheeses perfectly, adding an additional layer of indulgence and variety to your board.

Balancing and Contrasting Flavors

Each cheese brings something unique to the board, creating a delightful balance. The sharpness of Courtenay Cheddar plays against the creaminess of Camembert, while the smoky notes of Smoked Boerenkaas enhance the nutty undertones of Aged Farmhouse. Pacific Pepper Verdelait’s subtle heat is tamed by the sweetness of artisan jam.

Presentation Tips

  • Arrange cheeses in a clockwise pattern, starting from mild to bold.
  • Add small bowls of jam, local honey, mustard, and pickled grapes for easy serving.
  • Scatter crackers around the board for a cohesive and accessible display.
  • Include Natural Pastures Water Buffalo Cream Cheese for spreading or create a “Butter Board” with Natural Pastures Cultured Churned Butter to delight your guests with unique options.

This carefully curated selection, complete with thoughtful pairings, transforms any gathering into an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether it’s a cozy dinner party or a grand celebration, these eight cheeses and their accompaniments promise to impress every guest. So, grab a catering pack, add a Camembert, and let the feasting begin!

(Order your 8 pack to pick up in THE Artisan Cheese Shop in Courtenay!)

Natural Pastures Baked Brie

Baked Brie Party Trick!

A Crowd-Pleasing Delight with Comox Baked Brie

There’s nothing quite like the warm, gooey perfection of a baked Brie. If we had a party trick, this would be it!

Whether you’re serving it as a show-stopping appetizer at a dinner party or indulging in a cozy treat, baked Brie is versatile, decadent, and easy to make. At Natural Pastures Cheese Company, we’re proud to offer our award-winning Comox Brie, crafted with care from locally sourced cow’s milk on Vancouver Island. It’s the star ingredient for this indulgent dish.

Curious about the difference between Brie and Camembert? While both are soft-ripened cheeses with creamy textures, Brie has a milder, buttery flavor, while Camembert tends to be earthier and more intense. Our Comox Brie offers a smooth, approachable profile that pairs beautifully with sweet and savory accompaniments.

Where to Find Baked Brie or Make Your Own

If you’re in the Comox Valley, you can pick up pre-made Baked Brie at The Butcher’s Block, Hot Chocolates, or at The Artisan Cheese Shop at Natural Pastures Cheese Company. Located at 635 McPhee Avenue at 6th Street in Courtenay, BC, we offer finished, frozen Baked Brie ready for you to enjoy. For a DIY adventure, making baked Brie at home is simple and rewarding. All you need is a round of Comox Brie, puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), and optional toppings like fruit preserves, nuts, or honey. To get notified of sale and deals or new blog posts sign up for sms notifications here! https://mailchi.mp/naturalpastures/fkgku2e75u

Just want the Comox Brie or Comox Camembert straight up? You can find it at many British Columbia grocery stores from Save on Foods, Quality Food, IGA / IGA Market Place, Old Farm Market, Co-Op’s, The Root Cellar in Victoria, Country Grocer, Loblaws, Safeway, Stong’s Sunterra Markets, Thrifty Foods, Whole Foods Markets and Your Independent Grocer, Edible Island Grocery ( and more!)

Perfect Puff Pastry Recipe

If you’re feeling ambitious, try making your own puff pastry from scratch. The flaky, buttery layers will elevate your baked Brie to gourmet levels.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup Unsalted Cultured Natural Pastures Butter, cold and cubed
  • 2/3 cup ice water

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  2. Add the cubed butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter chunks remaining.
  3. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.
  4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a rectangle. Roll it out, fold it into thirds (like a letter), and turn it 90 degrees. Repeat this process 4-5 times, chilling the dough for 30 minutes between folds.
  5. Once the pastry is smooth and layered, chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour before using.

How to Make Baked Brie

Ingredients:

  • 1 round of Natural Pastures Comox Brie
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • Optional toppings: fruit preserves (fig, apricot, or cranberry), chopped nuts, honey, or fresh herbs
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out the puff pastry into a square large enough to wrap your Brie. Place the Brie in the center.
  3. Spread your desired toppings on top of the Brie.
  4. Wrap the pastry around the Brie, folding and pinching the edges to seal. Brush with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  5. Place the wrapped Brie in a Brie baker or a dish with edges and a lid. Alternatively, cover it with parchment paper to prevent over-browning.
  6. Freeze the wrapped Brie for min 2 hours before baking. This ensures the pastry remains flaky and crisp and brie melts slowly while the exterior bakes..
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
  8. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Pair with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit.

Whether you pick up a pre-made baked Brie or craft your own masterpiece, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the creamy, buttery goodness of Comox Brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry, and savor the joy of sharing good food with great company! Visit our Instagram for the full video!

40 knots fondue with Natural Pastures Cheese

Fondue at 40 Knots Winery in Comox Valley

Elevate your Fridays with the enchanting experience of Fondue at 40 Knots Winery! Picture yourself surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of our vineyard, nestled in the warmth of their glass-enclosed Aurora Vineyard Terrace. Immerse yourself in the indulgence of Fondue Fridays as they proudly showcase a delectable spread featuring the finest local ingredients.

Owners Layne and Brenda Craig are dedicated to producing clean, ethical wines that reflect the terroir of Vancouver Island. Their commitment to sustainability and quality has made 40 Knots a beloved destination for both locals and visitors, offering a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy exceptional wines and the serene vineyard setting.

Dip into our exquisite Natural Pastures Fondue cheese blend, accompanied by a selection of local delights:

  • Honey Grove Bakery baguette
  • The Pretzel Guyz pretzels
  • Conscious Crackers (GF/Vegan)
  • Tart Granny Smith apples
  • Sweet bell peppers
  • 40 Knots pickled grapes
  • The Butcher’s Block cured meats

At 40 Knots, they embrace the philosophy that “what grows together goes together.” This approach highlights the harmony between our locally crafted cheeses and the bounty of Vancouver Island’s produce. The fondue night features Natural Pastures Cheese Company’s artisan fondue, made right here in the Comox Valley using milk from Vancouver Island cows. This commitment to local sourcing ensures a fresh and flavorful experience that truly embodies the essence of our region.

Here are some HELLO’s and intro’s from the staff! Photos to come I hope! Check back!

Edna is our Event and Decor Specialist at 40 Knots. She is your go to person for booking and helping with your celebration here at our Vineyard. She can be found decorating our beautiful venues or assisting with a wedding in progress and always with a smile on her face.

Hey I’m Kelem, I am the winemaker here at 40 Knots. The synergies of working at 40 Knots Winery and being located where we are on Vancouver Island coincides with my personal beliefs of living a pure life symbiotically with nature and all the beauty it has to offer, including grapes of course.

Hi! I’m Tara. I’m a chef and have had several opportunities to make meals at 40 Knots Winery.  Successful wine pairing will enhance the dining experience- potentially enhance the dining experience- potentially heightening flavours, textures and qualities in the food.  I like to encourage our customers to be more adventurous with their meal planning by providing confidence that their selections will work well together, creating a more memorable experience. Our wines will change how you perceive the taste of your food and your food will change how you perceive the wine!

Hey, I’m Kat. You will find me in the tasting room conversing with our guests, doing lot’s of tastings,and eating lots of Natural Pastures cheeses. I am lucky to be able to work in such a beautiful place and I am grateful for the opportunities to interact and meet new people.

Join 40 Knots Winery for Fondue Fridays and savor the perfect pairing of local flavors in a setting that celebrates the beauty and bounty of our community.

2024 prices are as follows – click to book! Seats are limited.

Unveiling the Charcuterie Wedding Cake Trend: An Inside Look at Spoon & Spade

By Anyssa Jane

 In recent years, the traditional wedding cake has met its match: the charcuterie wedding cake. This delightful trend is capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of couples looking to make their big day uniquely memorable. At the forefront of this delicious movement are Toni and Katie, the dynamic duo behind Spoon & Spade, a small female-owned charcuterie business based in Victoria, Vancouver Island. Their commitment to “farm to table” principles ensures that each charcuterie board not only tastes amazing but also supports local producers and promotes sustainability.

Gone are the days when a multi-tiered, sugar-laden cake was the only option for a wedding centerpiece. Today, many couples are opting for charcuterie wedding cakes, which offer a delectable array of aged and fresh cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet accompaniments. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards celebrating food that is both artisanal and aesthetically pleasing.

One of the primary benefits of a charcuterie wedding cake is its versatility. Unlike traditional cakes, which cater to those with a sweet tooth, charcuterie cakes can appeal to a wide range of palates. They can be customized to include a variety of flavors, from creamy Natural Pastures Comox Brie, as found beside other local artisanal delights in the cake above, to spicy salami and savory prosciutto.  This ensures that every guest finds something they love. Additionally, these cakes are perfect for pairing with wine, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the celebration.

Founded in 2020 by Toni and Katie, Spoon & Spade has quickly become the go-to gourmet charcuterie company in Victoria, Vancouver Island. This female-owned business prides itself on creating beautifully crafted charcuterie boards that elevate any occasion, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. They each bring unique skills to the business: Toni with her Culinary Arts diploma and Katie with her artistic touch and a joint passion for florals and design, making them stand out in the event business.

At Spoon & Spade, the belief is that food brings people together. Their gourmet grazes and event tables include custom-made spreads, jams, jellies, and mustards, all made with the finest ingredients. As more couples embrace the charcuterie wedding cake trend, businesses like Spoon & Spade are at the forefront, offering delicious and visually stunning alternatives to traditional wedding cakes. Toni and Katie’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and local products makes their charcuterie creations a perfect reflection of today’s cultural values.

Natural Pastures Cheese Strikes Gold at the Royal Winter Fair 2023 with Bufetta – A Water Buffalo Milk Delight

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COURTENAY, BC, CANADA — January 9, 2024

Natural Pastures Cheese, a renowned artisanal Canadian cheese producer located in Courtenay, British Columbia, is thrilled to announce its recent triumph at the prestigious Royal Winter Fair in Toronto. The esteemed competition, held in 2023, saw Natural Pastures Cheese’s Bufetta, a delectable water buffalo milk product, clinch the Gold Medal in recognition of its exceptional quality and flavor. Since November 1922, Toronto has held the annual Royal Agricultural Winter Fair which is a tribute to Canadian agriculture. Held annually at the Canadian National Exhibition grounds, it has been considered the world’s largest indoor agricultural, horticultural and equestrian fair.

Bufetta, crafted with precision and care, exemplifies Natural Pastures Cheese’s commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and employing traditional cheese-making techniques. Made with non-GMO, grass-fed water buffalo milk, and “BC Dairy” cow milk (made with 70 % Water buffalo milk and 30% Cow milk) Bufetta boasts a distinct profile that sets it apart from your average feta. The rich, creamy texture and unique flavor have made it a sought-after choice among chefs and food enthusiasts.

The heart and soul behind Natural Pastures Cheese’s success lie in the expertise of its master cheese maker, Paul Sutter, of Swiss descent. With many years of dedicated service to the company, Paul Sutter has played a pivotal role in developing and perfecting the water buffalo products that have now earned them the prestigious Gold Medal at the Royal Winter Fair.

“We are truly honored and delighted to receive the Gold Medal at the Royal Winter Fair for Bufetta,” said Doug Smith – Operations Manager at Natural Pastures Cheese. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, particularly our master cheese maker, Paul Sutter. His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in creating exceptional water buffalo milk products. We extend our gratitude to the Royal Winter Fair for providing a platform to showcase the best in Canadian cheese.”

The Royal Winter Fair is renowned for its rigorous judging process, making Natural Pastures Cheese’s Gold Medal win a significant achievement. This accolade further solidifies the company’s standing in the Canadian cheese industry and highlights its dedication to producing exceptional artisanal cheeses.

For more information about Natural Pastures Cheese and its award-winning Bufetta, please visit [website link].

About Natural Pastures Cheese: Natural Pastures Cheese is a distinguished artisanal cheese producer located in Courtenay, British Columbia, Canada. Committed to crafting high-quality cheeses, the company focuses on using the finest ingredients and traditional cheese-making techniques to deliver exceptional flavors. Distribution is available through Lekker Food Distributors, Gordon Foods Services and select distributors across Western Canada and Ontario.

Media Contact: Media Contact Person’s Anyssa Jane – General Manager, Natural Pastures Cheese cheese@naturalpastures.com 250-334-4422

https://www.assistexpo.ca/results/rawf/5/803

For other results:

2023 Goat, Sheep, Water Buffalo & Mixed Variety Cheese Competition
Show Results – The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair – 2023 (assistexpo.ca)

It has won Gold/ 1. Place in the category of Feta or Feta Style – Natural with or without brining

Soup recipes from Natural Pastures Cheese

Amsterdammer Cheese Bliss: Elevating Natural Pastures Cheese with Eric Akis’ Apple and Parsnip Soup a new winter favorite

Inspiration Behind the Recipe

Renowned culinary expert Eric Akis has always been a source of inspiration for food enthusiasts, and his recipe for “Apples and Parsnips” is no exception. The ingenious combination of sweet apples and earthy parsnips creates a harmonious blend of flavors, making it a delightful soup for the colder months.

Natural Pastures Cheese: Elevating the Dish

Eric incorporated our very own Amsterdammer Cheese. Handcrafted by our Swiss Cheese makers here in Courtenay, BC with precision and care, our cheese adds a creamy and savory dimension to the soup, elevating it to a whole new level of indulgence. The distinct flavor profile of our cheese complements the sweetness of apples and the nuttiness of parsnips, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate.

The Natural Pastures Difference

What sets Natural Pastures Cheese apart is our commitment to using only the finest, locally sourced ingredients Vancouver Island Canadian milk. Our cheese is crafted with passion and expertise, ensuring that each bite is a testament to the quality and dedication we pour into our products. From the lush pastures of Vancouver Island, we bring you a taste of nature’s bounty in every slice.


Cooking Instructions

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 parsnips, peeled and chopped
  • 2 apples, cored and chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup Natural Pastures Amersterdammer Cheese, shredded (or choose your favorite variety)
  • Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
  2. Add parsnips and apples, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer until parsnips are tender.
  4. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth.
  5. Stir in Natural Pastures Cheese until melted and well combined.
  6. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chives, and serve hot.

Acknowledging Eric Akis

We extend our sincere gratitude to Eric Akis for inspiring this mouthwatering recipe. His culinary expertise and dedication to creating memorable dishes align seamlessly with our values at Natural Pastures. For the original recipe and more culinary inspiration, visit Eric Akis’ Apples and Parsnips Recipe.

At Natural Pastures, we believe in the power of exceptional ingredients to transform a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece. Join us on this journey of flavor and indulge in the richness of our handcrafted cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, our cheese is sure to elevate your culinary creations. Try Eric Akis’ inspired soup recipe, and let the symphony of tastes created by Natural Pastures Cheese leave you craving more. Cheers to savoring the finest flavors nature has to offer!

charcuterie board

Thanksgiving Cheese Sampler Selection

This Thanksgiving, savor the exquisite flavors of Natural Pastures Cheese products, knowing that your holiday feast would lack its essential touch without a sumptuous platter showcasing the likes of Bourenkaas, Aged Farmhouse, Courtenay Cheddar, Amsterdammer, and Cracked Pepper cheeses and Brie!

Its our pleasure is to curate an opulent selection of artisanal cheeses and complementary condiments for you, your beloved family, and cherished friends.

Our cheese selection encompasses a delightful diversity of options, but do note that some, such as Cracked Pepper, are available in limited quantities. Therefore, we recommend making your choice promptly to ensure you secure these rare treasures.

When your Thanksgiving day arrives, all that remains is for you to plate up your delightful cheese assortment on a beautiful board. Display them elegantly at your holiday table, and let the festivities begin!

This Thanksgiving, let the star of your feast be a captivating cheese platter that brings family and friends together. Secure your order today, and we have it ready for pick up in Courtenay for you Thanksgiving celebration.

Your Thanksgiving Sampler promises an extraordinary culinary journey:
$145 – pick up price ( shipping is extra )

  • A generous selection of 5 cheeses, featuring the rich flavors of Bourenkaas, the rustic charm of Aged Farmhouse, the bold character of Courtenay Cheddar, the nuanced sophistication of Amsterdammer, and, if you’re lucky, the limited edition delight of Cracked Pepper. -+200 grams
  • 2 Jars of Saltspring Kitchen Co. Candied Jalapeno Relish and Apple Fig & Fennel.
  • As YOU Like It – Mango Chutney 125 ml
  • Ladjager bites from Grimm’s 125G
  • 2 bags of Jenny Marie’s Crackers 100 g each
  • 1 tin of Wild Spring Salmon 160 g
  • 1 Bulb of Garston’s Garlic ( we recommend roasting to have with Brie on crackers)
  • Big D’s 50 grams of charcuterie honey
  • Cheese Knife
  • Additionally, you’ll receive a fact sheet detailing the cheese descriptions and suggested pairings with 40 Knots Wine.
  • You may upgrade and add on as needed
    recommended addon’s 200 G Natural Pastures Butter , Natural Pastures Fondue, Cheese Flight 6 mixed cheese rolls

Please bear in mind that we dispatch wedges of cheese approx 200g and while the exact cheese selections in your Sampler sizes may vary, rest assured that we will make every effort to include Bourenkaas, Aged Farmhouse, Courtenay Cheddar, Amsterdammer, and, Cracked Pepper. In the event of limited availability, we reserve the right to substitute any item with a product of equal or greater value. Your Thanksgiving celebration is our priority, and we want it to be a cheese-filled success!
This offer expires November 1, 2023 call for updates.