These Red Cheese Spears are a sophisticated and refreshing appetizer that balances the natural bitterness of Belgian endive with the rich creaminess of soft cheese. The dish features crisp endive leaves filled with a smooth mixture of chèvre or whipped cream cheese, topped with a sprinkle of chopped salted pistachios for a delightful textural contrast. The vibrant green hue of the endive pairs beautifully with the white cheese and green nuts, making for an visually appealing presentation. Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or as a light starter to a larger meal, these spears are easy to assemble and offer a burst of fresh flavor in every bite. They are particularly popular in autumn and winter menus when endive is in season.
Red Cheese Spears
Description
These Red Cheese Spears are a sophisticated and refreshing appetizer that balances the natural bitterness of Belgian endive with the rich creaminess of soft cheese. The dish features crisp endive leaves filled with a smooth mixture of ch&# 195;¨vre or whipped cream cheese, topped with a sprinkle of chopped salted pistachios for a delightful textural contrast. The vibrant green hue of the endive pairs beautifully with the white cheese and green nuts, making for an visually appealing presentation. Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or as a light starter to a larger meal, these spears are easy to assemble and offer a burst of fresh flavor in every bite. They are particularly popular in autumn and winter menus when endive is in season.Ingredients
Directions
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Trim the base of the endive heads to separate the large outer leaves.
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Save any extra small leaves for other uses, such as mixed salads.
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In a small cup or bowl, prepare your cheese filling.
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Place about 1 teaspoon of the chèvre or cream cheese into the cup of each endive leaf.
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Sprinkle the cheese with the chopped salted pistachios.
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Arrange the filled endive leaves on a serving tray.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 48
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 9.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 12.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 2.2g1%
- Dietary Fiber 1.1g5%
- Sugars 0.7g
- Protein 0.7g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The endive leaves serve as natural cups, so select leaves that are sturdy enough to hold the filling but tender enough to eat easily.
For a vegan version, ensure the chèvre or cream cheese alternative is plant-based.
Pistachios add a nice crunch and saltiness, but you can substitute with other nuts like almonds or walnuts if preferred.
Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the endive leaves.
