Save A festive and flavorful appetizer featuring creamy goat cheese logs coated with sweet dried cranberries and crunchy nuts, beautifully arranged with accompaniments for a stunning board presentation.
This appetizer has been a favorite at our holiday gatherings, always impressing guests with its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- Cheese Logs: 2 (150 g each) goat cheese logs
- Cheese Logs: 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- Cheese Logs: 1/3 cup pistachios or pecans, finely chopped
- Cheese Logs: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup seedless red grapes
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup seedless green grapes
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup assorted crackers (gluten-free if needed)
- Board Accompaniments: 1/2 cup toasted baguette slices
- Board Accompaniments: 1/4 cup honey
- Board Accompaniments: 1/4 cup roasted almonds or walnuts
- Board Accompaniments: 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers
- Board Accompaniments: 1/4 cup sliced radishes
- Board Accompaniments: Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, chopped nuts, and parsley (if using).
- Step 2:
- Roll each goat cheese log in the cranberry-nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly.
- Step 3:
- Place the coated goat cheese logs on a large serving board.
- Step 4:
- Arrange grapes, crackers, baguette slices, almonds or walnuts, cucumber slices, and radishes around the cheese logs.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle honey over the logs or serve on the side.
- Step 6:
- Garnish the board with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to spread cheese on crackers or bread with accompaniments.
Save This recipe always sparks joyful moments as family and friends gather around the board, sharing stories and savoring each bite together.
Notes
Add dried apricots, olives, or apple slices for more variety. Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling rosé.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, small bowls for toppings, serving board or platter.
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (goat cheese), Tree nuts (pistachios, pecans, almonds, walnuts), Wheat (if using regular crackers or baguette). For gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers and bread. Always check product labels for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Save This appetizer’s blend of textures and flavors makes it perfect for any festive occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What nuts can I use for coating the cheese logs?
Pistachios, pecans, almonds, or walnuts work well, offering a crunchy texture and rich flavor to complement the creamy cheese.
- → How should I serve the goat cheese logs?
Place the coated logs on a large board surrounded by grapes, crackers, sliced vegetables, and drizzle honey on top or serve it on the side.
- → Can I make this dish nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the nuts and increase the amount of dried cranberries or substitute with pumpkin seeds for a crunchy alternative.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavor and presentation?
Fresh rosemary sprigs add a festive aroma and visual appeal, while parsley offers a fresh herbal note in the coating.
- → How long does preparation take?
The entire assembly takes about 15 minutes, making it a quick and elegant choice for gatherings.