Description
This easy and elegant Grape Appetizer features juicy seedless grapes coated with a creamy cheese mixture and rolled in crunchy chopped nuts and fresh herbs. Combining sweet and savory flavors, these bite-sized treats are perfect for entertaining, wine nights, holiday gatherings, or as a sophisticated starter that requires no cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups seedless grapes (red or green)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coating
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley (minced)
For Serving
- Toothpicks for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the grapes: Wash the seedless grapes thoroughly and pat them completely dry to ensure the cheese mixture adheres well.
- Make the cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Coat the grapes: Using a small spoon or your clean hands, spread a thin, even layer of the cheese mixture around each grape, covering them completely.
- Roll in nuts and herbs: Roll each cheese-coated grape in the chopped pecans or walnuts mixed with minced fresh chives or parsley, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.
- Chill to set: Place the coated grapes on a platter and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to allow the coating to firm up slightly.
- Serve: Insert toothpicks into each grape bite for easy handling and arrange them attractively on a serving platter.
Notes
- Substitute pecans or walnuts with crushed pistachios or crispy bacon bits for different flavors and textures.
- For a sweeter variation, add a little honey to the cream cheese mixture and roll grapes in crushed graham crackers instead of nuts.
- Ensure grapes are thoroughly dried to prevent the cheese mixture from slipping off.
- This appetizer is best served chilled and consumed within a few hours of preparation for optimal freshness.
