Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé is Back! Delicious Recipes and Serving Suggestions

Trader Joe’s enthusiasts, rejoice! The beloved Fromage Pavé is back on shelves, and if you haven’t experienced its creamy, tangy goodness, now is your chance. This delectable French cheese, resembling a small cobblestone (pavé in French), boasts a unique flavor profile that makes it incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, Fromage Pavé can elevate your appetizers, salads, main courses, and even desserts. This guide will explore everything you need to know about Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, from its flavor profile and serving suggestions to a collection of mouthwatering recipes that will inspire you to create culinary masterpieces.

## What is Fromage Pavé?

Fromage Pavé is a soft-ripened cheese originating from France. Its name, meaning “paved cheese,” refers to its distinctive rectangular shape, reminiscent of cobblestones. Made from cow’s milk, Fromage Pavé is known for its creamy, smooth texture and tangy, slightly salty flavor. The rind is typically bloomy, adding a subtle earthy note to the overall taste experience. Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé is particularly popular due to its exceptional quality and affordable price point, making it accessible to cheese lovers of all budgets.

## Flavor Profile

Fromage Pavé offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The cheese is incredibly creamy and smooth, melting effortlessly in your mouth. The dominant flavor is tangy and slightly salty, with a hint of earthiness from the bloomy rind. Some palates may also detect subtle notes of mushrooms or nuts. The overall flavor profile is complex yet approachable, making it a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a wide variety of ingredients.

## Serving Suggestions

Fromage Pavé is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some popular serving suggestions:

* **As part of a cheese board:** Include Fromage Pavé alongside other cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, and goat cheese. Pair it with crackers, crusty bread, fruits (grapes, apples, pears), nuts, and honey or jam.
* **Spread on crackers or bread:** Simply spread Fromage Pavé on your favorite crackers or a slice of crusty bread for a quick and delicious snack.
* **Melted on sandwiches or toast:** Add a layer of Fromage Pavé to your sandwiches or toast for a creamy and flavorful upgrade. It melts beautifully and adds a tangy kick.
* **Crumbled in salads:** Crumble Fromage Pavé over your favorite salads for a burst of flavor and creaminess. It pairs particularly well with green salads, fruit salads, and salads with nuts.
* **Used in sauces:** Fromage Pavé can be melted into sauces to add richness and tanginess. It works well in pasta sauces, cream sauces, and even dips.
* **Baked in pastries:** Incorporate Fromage Pavé into pastries, such as tarts, quiches, and croissants, for a decadent and flavorful treat.
* **Grilled or pan-fried:** Slice Fromage Pavé and grill or pan-fry it until slightly softened and browned. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze.
* **With wine:** Pair Fromage Pavé with white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or light-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir.

## Recipes Featuring Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé

Now, let’s dive into some exciting recipes that showcase the versatility of Fromage Pavé. These recipes range from simple appetizers to more elaborate main courses, offering something for every skill level and taste preference.

### 1. Fromage Pavé and Fig Jam Crostini

This simple appetizer is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. The creamy Fromage Pavé pairs perfectly with the sweet and fruity fig jam, creating a delightful flavor combination.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, softened
* 1/4 cup fig jam
* Fresh thyme leaves (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
2. Spread softened Fromage Pavé on each toasted baguette slice.
3. Top with a small spoonful of fig jam.
4. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

### 2. Fromage Pavé and Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts

This refreshing salad is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy. The creamy Fromage Pavé complements the crisp apples and crunchy candied walnuts, creating a delightful texture and flavor profile.

**Ingredients:**

* 5 oz mixed greens
* 1 apple (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, crumbled
* 1/4 cup candied walnuts
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apple, and crumbled Fromage Pavé.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with candied walnuts.
5. Serve immediately.

### 3. Fromage Pavé and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

This elegant main course is surprisingly easy to make. The creamy Fromage Pavé and spinach filling adds a burst of flavor to the chicken breast, making it a restaurant-worthy dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, softened
* 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Balsamic glaze for serving

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through.
2. In a medium bowl, combine softened Fromage Pavé, chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the Fromage Pavé and spinach mixture.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken breasts on both sides until lightly browned.
5. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (optional) and serve.

### 4. Fromage Pavé and Mushroom Tartlets

These savory tartlets are perfect for appetizers or a light lunch. The earthy mushrooms and creamy Fromage Pavé create a harmonious flavor combination that will tantalize your taste buds.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
* 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
* 1 shallot, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, crumbled
* Fresh thyme leaves
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut puff pastry into 9 equal squares. Press each square into a mini muffin tin to form a tartlet shell.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and minced shallot and cook until softened and lightly browned.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon mushroom mixture into each tartlet shell.
5. Top with crumbled Fromage Pavé and fresh thyme leaves.
6. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with beaten egg (egg wash).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until puff pastry is golden brown and filling is heated through.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

### 5. Fromage Pavé Pasta with Roasted Vegetables

This simple pasta dish is a healthy and flavorful weeknight meal. The creamy Fromage Pavé sauce coats the pasta and roasted vegetables, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, softened
* 1/2 cup pasta water
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chopped bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, minced garlic, and softened Fromage Pavé.
4. Add pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

### 6. Fromage Pavé and Caramelized Onion Grilled Cheese

Elevate your grilled cheese game with this gourmet version. The creamy Fromage Pavé and sweet caramelized onions create a decadent and satisfying sandwich.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 slices sourdough bread
* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, sliced
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Caramelize the onions: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes, or until onions are golden brown and caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread remaining butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Layer with sliced Fromage Pavé and caramelized onions. Top with remaining slices of bread, butter-side up.
3. Grill the sandwiches: Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted and gooey.
4. Serve immediately.

### 7. Baked Fromage Pavé with Honey and Walnuts

This warm and gooey appetizer is perfect for a cozy night in. The creamy Fromage Pavé melts beautifully in the oven and is topped with sweet honey and crunchy walnuts.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped
* Crackers or crusty bread, for serving

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place Fromage Pavé in an oven-safe dish.
2. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is softened and slightly melted.
3. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
4. Serve immediately with crackers or crusty bread.

### 8. Fromage Pavé and Pear Tart

This elegant dessert is a showstopper that is surprisingly easy to make. The creamy Fromage Pavé and sweet pears create a delightful flavor combination that is perfect for any occasion.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
* 2 pears, thinly sliced
* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, crumbled
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon butter, melted
* Cinnamon (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
2. Transfer puff pastry to a baking sheet. Arrange pear slices in a decorative pattern on top of the puff pastry.
3. Sprinkle with crumbled Fromage Pavé and brown sugar. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon (optional).
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puff pastry is golden brown and pears are tender.
5. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

### 9. Fromage Pavé Dip with Crudités

This creamy and flavorful dip is perfect for parties or gatherings. The Fromage Pavé is blended with herbs and spices to create a delicious dip that pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, softened
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
* 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Assorted crudités (carrots, celery, cucumbers, bell peppers), for serving

**Instructions:**

1. In a food processor or blender, combine softened Fromage Pavé, sour cream, chives, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Transfer dip to a serving bowl.
3. Serve with assorted crudités.

### 10. Mini Fromage Pavé Quiches

These bite-sized quiches are perfect for brunch or appetizers. The creamy Fromage Pavé filling is baked in flaky pastry shells, creating a delicious and satisfying treat.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
* 4 oz Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé, crumbled
* 2 eggs
* 1/4 cup milk
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Cooked bacon or ham, chopped
* Optional: Chopped vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, onions)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut puff pastry into small squares and press each square into a mini muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in crumbled Fromage Pavé, and optional ingredients like bacon/ham and chopped vegetables.
3. Pour egg mixture into each puff pastry-lined muffin tin.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until quiches are set and golden brown.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.

## Tips for Working with Fromage Pavé

* **Softening:** For many recipes, it’s best to soften Fromage Pavé before using it. Simply leave it at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, or until it’s easily spreadable or crumbled.
* **Storage:** Store Fromage Pavé in the refrigerator, wrapped in its original packaging or in an airtight container. It’s best consumed within a week of opening.
* **Rind:** The rind of Fromage Pavé is edible and adds a subtle earthy flavor. However, if you prefer, you can remove the rind before using the cheese.
* **Substitutions:** If you can’t find Fromage Pavé, you can substitute it with other soft-ripened cheeses, such as brie or Camembert. However, the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

## Conclusion

Trader Joe’s Fromage Pavé is a versatile and delicious cheese that can elevate your culinary creations. Its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and affordable price point make it a must-have for cheese lovers. From simple appetizers to elegant main courses and decadent desserts, the possibilities are endless. So, head to Trader Joe’s, grab a few blocks of Fromage Pavé, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure! These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and create your own unique dishes featuring this incredible cheese. Enjoy!