One of our favorite things about finely crafted cheese — and believe us, our list of favorite things about finely crafted cheeses is a long one — is how ably they act as a canvas for other flavors and sensations. Take Trader Joe’s Triple Cream Brie Cheese with Green Peppercorns, for instance. Buttery, soft-ripened Triple Cream Brie is a delight on all its own, but by adding in the piquant pop of Green Peppercorns (i.e., black peppercorns before they’re blanched and dried), our supplier, an expert cheesemaker based in Germany, has created something entirely unique: a cheese that’s rich, creamy, zesty, and even just a touch spicy, all at once.

Ideal for cheeseboards and charcuterie plates, great on a grilled cheese or patty melt, and a wonder when simply enjoyed out of the fridge, this plush-yet-peppery Brie is truly something to behold. Try melting it over a flatbread with prosciutto and chopped figs for an elevated appetizer, or stuffing into a flattened chicken cutlet before breading and pan-frying for a first-rate cordon bleu. We find that its full flavor and delicate spice combine especially well with sweeter flavors: try pairing it with sliced pears, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of your favorite fruit preserves.