If you only have room in your refrigerator for one cheese, let it be Gruyère. This mountain cheese has a rich, complex flavor that's nutty, buttery, fruity and even tinged with nutmeg. Yet it's mild enough to complement almost any food without overpowering it. Gruyère melts beautifully (it's well-known as a fondue cheese), but it's firm enough to easily be grated.

Try these serving ideas:

--To bring out the natural sweetness in vegetables, grate some on roasted cauliflower or carrots.
--Sprinkle a handful over a bowl of vegetable soup.
--Top a casserole or gratin (like Mashed Potato-Pumpkin Gratin).
--Grate it over a salad.
--Serve it as a meal finale with fresh fruit, especially pears and apples.
--For a touch of class, add it to "melty" comfort-food classics, from macaroni and cheese to tuna melts and grilled cheese sandwiches.