Fresh Cheese Christmas Tree with Cranberries & Walnuts
This festive and playful recipe transforms simple fresh cheese into an elegant creation, perfect for brightening up your holiday tables. No-cook and quick to make, it combines the mildness of herbed cheese, the tartness of ruby cranberries, and the crunch of golden walnuts. A fresh appetizer that will amaze your guests with its originality and delicate flavor. Easy to customize, it adapts to all tastes and becomes the centerpiece of any festive buffet. Its make-ahead preparation makes it a precious ally for party planning.
Double Compartment 9L Air Fryer – 8-in-1
€69.99
Pros:
- Two independent baskets for simultaneous cooking
- Smart Finish technology for synchronized cooking end time
- Intuitive touchscreen with automatic programs
Con:
- Takes up more countertop space
- 1
In a bowl, mash the fresh cheese with a fork if it's firm. Add olive oil, salt and pepper. Mix vigorously until smooth and homogeneous.
- 2
Incorporate the chopped dill and rosemary. Mix gently to distribute evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 3
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions (about 65-70g each). Lightly oil your hands.
- 4
Take one portion, form a ball then shape into a regular cone with a wide base and a tip. Using the back of a knife, gently make 2 or 3 slanted horizontal cuts all around to create the tree layers.
- 5
Press whole cranberries onto all sides of the tree. Insert walnut pieces between the cranberries, pressing slightly. Optionally sprinkle with edible glitter.
- 6
Place each tree on a plate or dish with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (ideally 30) to firm up.
- 7
When serving, insert a small rosemary sprig at the base of each tree. Add a pinch of fleur de sel on top. Serve chilled with crackers, toast or vegetable sticks.
- Fresh goat cheese for firm hold and pronounced flavor, Philadelphia for milder taste and easier shaping. If mixture is too soft, add a tablespoon of herbed spreadable cheese.
- Oil your hands for clean shaping without the cheese sticking.
- If cranberries are too hard, soak them for 5 minutes in warm water, then pat dry.
- Can be made the day before, keep covered in the fridge. Add glitter at the last minute.
- Variations: replace walnuts with pistachios and cranberries with dried figs; add caramelized bacon; incorporate truffle oil; vegan version with cashew 'cheese'.
- Serving: serve with red onion confit or apple jelly as a dip. Wine pairing: Sauvignon Blanc or Brut Champagne.
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