The holiday season is upon us and for most of us that means an endless gathering of friends and family! I love this time of year because it’s a great time to reconnect with loved ones and friends that you don’t often see. As a ‘foodie’ I also love this time of year because I think that sharing food with friends is a great way to encourage fun times and good conversation. The next time that you are looking for an appetizer to bring to a party or if you’re hosting one in your own home then I recommend trying out my recipe for Blue Cheese with Date and Olive Tapenade!
Coming from the daily state, cheese tends to be the centerpiece of most appetizer tables. I’m a big fan of the classic cheese and cracker or a good cheese ball but sometimes you crave something with a more complex flavor. Using a Simply Artisan Reserve Blue Cheese Center Cut as the base for my appetizer, I mixed up somewhat of a tapenade topping to enhance the flavor. I love how the rich and buttery texture of the blue cheese compliments the salty, briny olives and the topping is kissed with the sweetness of the honey. This is honestly like a party in your mouth.
This appetizer is best served with crackers or bread and goes well with grapes or apple wedges. You can make the topping ahead of time and add it to the wheel of cheese before serving. I recommend serving the entire appetizer at room temperature to maximize the flavors.
It’s time to deck the halls and invite your friends over for a glass of wine and Blue Cheese with Date and Olive Tapenade. I promise they will all want the recipe to bring to other parties this holiday season!