Cheese and Grape Appetizer: A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

If you’re looking for a sophisticated yet simple appetizer that will impress your guests, Cheese and Grape Appetizer is the perfect choice. This delightful dish combines the richness of cream cheese and blue cheese with the natural sweetness of seedless grapes, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The added crunch of sliced almonds brings texture to each bite, while the fresh parsley enhances the overall freshness of this dish.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving a delicious snack, this appetizer will surely be a hit.

For additional appetizer ideas, check out Epicurious’ Easy Appetizer Recipes or explore creative ways to use cheese in appetizers on Delish’s Appetizer Recipes.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Cheese and Grape Appetizer: A Savory and Sweet Party Snack

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 12-16 servings (approximately 24-30 grapes) 1x

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Description

This elegant and easy-to-make Cheese and Grape Appetizer combines the creamy richness of cream cheese and blue cheese with the natural sweetness of fresh grapes. The almonds add a delightful crunch, and the fresh parsley brings a pop of color and flavor. Perfect for any party or gathering, this appetizer is a sweet and savory bite on a skewer or toothpick.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 ounces sliced almonds (about 1 cup)
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 2 ounces crumbled blue cheese, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, room temperature
• Appetizer skewers or toothpicks
• 1 to 1-1/4 pounds seedless red or green grapes, rinsed and patted dry

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cheese mixture:
   In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled blue cheese, and heavy whipping cream. Using a hand mixer or a spoon, mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in the minced fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

2. Prepare the almonds:
   Place the sliced almonds in a shallow dish or plate. This will be used to coat the grapes and cheese mixture.

3. Assemble the appetizer:
   Take a grape and dip it into the cheese mixture, covering the grape evenly with the creamy cheese blend. Roll the coated grape in the sliced almonds, pressing gently to ensure the almonds stick to the cheese.

4. Skewer the grapes:
   Once the grape is coated in the cheese and almonds, carefully skewer it with an appetizer skewer or toothpick. Repeat the process with the remaining grapes, cheese mixture, and almonds.

5. Serve:
   Arrange the finished cheese and grape appetizers on a serving platter. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

• You can substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese or any other soft cheese you prefer for a milder flavor.
• If you prefer a sweeter contrast, drizzle a little honey over the finished appetizers just before serving.
• For an extra touch, you can add a few fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the cheese mixture for added depth of flavor.
• If you don’t have appetizer skewers, toothpicks work just as well for easy serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None (chill if desired)
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook, Assembly
• Cuisine: American, Appetizer

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2-3 skewers (2-3 grapes each)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Cheese and Grape Appetizer Recipe

Instructions:

1. Toast the Almonds:

• In a small skillet, toast the sliced almonds over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Be sure not to burn them. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, crumbled blue cheese, fresh parsley, and heavy whipping cream. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend everything until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more cream until you reach a spreadable consistency.

3. Assemble the Appetizer:

• Take each grape and gently insert a toothpick or appetizer skewer into the center.
• Using a spoon or your fingers, carefully dip each grape into the cheese mixture, ensuring it is well-coated.
• Roll the cheese-coated grape in the toasted sliced almonds, pressing slightly so the nuts adhere to the cheese mixture.

4. Serve:

• Arrange the cheese and grape skewers on a platter. You can garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of almonds for added visual appeal.
• Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving.

Advanced Techniques

While the basic Cheese and Grape Appetizer recipe is delicious on its own, there are several ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Flavor Variations

Experiment with different types of cheese to tailor the flavor to your preference. For instance, you can replace the blue cheese with goat cheese for a milder taste, or use cream cheese and cheddar for a more classic combination. You can also experiment with adding a little honey or fig jam to the cheese mixture for a touch of sweetness.

Infuse the Cream Cheese

To add extra depth of flavor, consider infusing the cream cheese with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives. Simply chop the herbs finely and mix them into the cream cheese before combining it with the blue cheese and whipping cream.

Adding Fresh Fruit

While grapes are the star of this appetizer, you could also use other fresh fruits like apple slices or sliced pears for variation. These fruits will pair nicely with the rich and tangy flavor of the blue cheese.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the Cheese and Grape Appetizer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The grapes should stay fresh, and the cheese mixture will remain creamy.

Freezing

Freezing this appetizer is not recommended due to the delicate texture of the cream cheese and the freshness of the grapes. The almonds may also lose their crunch if frozen.

Reheating

Since the appetizer is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Just take it out of the fridge 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature, which will enhance the flavor and texture of the cheese.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

For those with dietary restrictions, here are a few adaptations and substitutions you can make:

Dairy-Free Option

To make this appetizer dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative, and use a dairy-free blue cheese for the crumbled cheese. There are several plant-based cheese options available at most grocery stores.

Nut-Free Version

If you’re making this for someone with a nut allergy, simply omit the toasted almonds and replace them with a nut-free alternative like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. These options still provide a nice crunch without the risk of an allergic reaction.

Low-Carb/ Keto-Friendly Version

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, Cheese and Grape Appetizer is already quite close to keto-friendly. Simply reduce the amount of grapes (as they contain sugar) and substitute them with cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for a savory bite.

FAQs About Cheese and Grape Appetizer

1. Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese-coated grapes up to 1 hour in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate the skewers until you’re ready to serve. Be sure to roll them in the almonds just before serving to maintain their crunch.

2. Can I use frozen grapes for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh grapes for this appetizer as frozen grapes can become mushy when thawed, affecting the texture of the dish.

3. Can I make this appetizer without the almonds?

Yes, if you or your guests have nut allergies or simply don’t like almonds, you can omit them and still enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavor of the grapes. You could even try coating the grapes with crushed crackers or panko bread crumbs as a substitution.

4. What types of blue cheese work best for this recipe?

You can use any type of blue cheese that you prefer. Some of the more popular options include Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Stilton. Choose a variety that matches your flavor preferences, whether it’s a milder or stronger blue cheese.

5. Can I use green grapes instead of red grapes?

Yes, you can use either red grapes or green grapes in this recipe, depending on your preference or what’s available at your local grocery store. Both varieties will pair well with the creamy cheese and toasted almonds.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Cheese and Grape Appetizer is an elegant and simple dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a delightful mix of sweet grapes, tangy blue cheese, and crunchy almonds, this appetizer is sure to please. It’s quick to prepare, and its balance of flavors makes it a standout choice for both casual and formal gatherings.

The versatility of this appetizer also means that you can customize it to fit various dietary needs and preferences. So, next time you’re in need of a unique and delicious starter, try this recipe, and watch your guests enjoy every bite.