Set the stage to party with tasty tidbits
(NC) Make it look like you pulled out all the stops this holiday season by adding savoury grape bites to your appetizer lineup. No matter whether you’re the party host or bringing an appetizer to a potluck gathering, these little canapés look impressive, but they’re simple to make. Grapes and cheese are a perfect pair and the toasted nuts add just the right finish.
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup crumbled Roquefort or other blue cheese, at room temperature
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon chopped tarragon
20 red seedless California grapes
1/3 cup finely chopped toasted pistachios or toasted walnuts
Line a small baking sheet with waxed or parchment paper. Set aside.
In a small food processor (or mix by hand), combine the cream cheese, Roquefort, heavy cream and tarragon until well mixed. Transfer to a medium bowl and stir in the grapes. Put the nuts in a small bowl. With a tablespoon, scoop up a grape and gently coat in the cheese mixture. Roll in the nuts and place on the prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate 2 to 3 hours and serve.
Goat Cheese Variation: Substitute 1/4 cup soft goat cheese for the Roquefort and 1/4 cup finely cut chives for the tarragon and 1/4 cup toasted chopped pecans for the pistachios.
Nutritional analysis per canapé: Calories 42; Protein .9 g; Carbohydrate 1.4 g; Fat 4 g; 79% Calories from Fat; Cholesterol 9 mg; Sodium 34 mg; Potassium 30 mg; Fibre .2 g.
