Selection: Serve at least three cheeses with different consistencies and flavours. choose a mix of textures, from soft (goat cheese) to semisoft (oka) to firm (cheddar), and a variety of milks (goat, cow, sheep, buffalo).

Portion Size: Plan on 1 to 1 1⁄2 oz (30 to 45 g) of total cheese per person.

Perfect Pairing: Pair cheeses with fresh or dried fruits that are easy to pick up, such as dried apricots, raspberries, figs and small clusters of grapes. Complement certain cheeses with condiments (such as goat cheese drizzled with honey, or Brie topped with fig jam).

Temperature: Make sure to take cheese out of the refrigerator about one hour before serving.

For more tips and recipes discover how to plan the ultimate outdoor party!

This piece was originally a part of "Take It Outside!" in the June 2013 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!