Cheese And Strawberries
A creamy cheese and strawberry preserve appetizer with crunchy nuts and a hint of onion, perfect for entertaining or special occasions with crackers or bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except strawberry preserves.
- Refrigerate the mixture.
- One hour before serving, form the mixture into a ring mold.
- Fill the center of the ring with strawberry preserves.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese instead of sharp cheese, or blend in some Greek yogurt. If you want to add a bit of sweetness, a touch of honey can enhance the flavor. Feel free to substitute walnuts for the nuts if you prefer. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be made ahead of time. Browse more vegetarian recipes for additional ideas.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is ideal as an appetizer for parties or family gatherings. Serve it with an assortment of crackers or toasted baguette slices for a delightful crunch. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a charcuterie board. Consider offering a selection of cheeses alongside for a more varied tasting experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheese mixture can last up to three days, while the strawberry preserves should be consumed within a week once opened. To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a microwave, but it’s best served cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Strawberries contains roughly 545 calories, with 19g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value) and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2359mg per serving (103% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just make sure to mold it and add the strawberry preserves right before serving to maintain its shape and freshness.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. Just ensure they are well-grated for easy mixing.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves?
Yes, fresh strawberries can be used, but you'll want to macerate them with a little sugar to draw out their juices and create a similar sweet flavor profile. This will add a fresher taste to the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).