Description
This elegant appetizer features sweet roasted red grapes infused with balsamic vinegar and fresh rosemary, paired with a creamy whipped feta and cream cheese spread. Perfect for serving with pita chips or toast, it’s a sophisticated, flavor-packed recipe that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Grapes
- 4 cups Red California Grapes
- 1/3 cup Balsamic Vinegar
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Whipped Feta
- 8 oz Fresh Block Feta, softened at room temperature
- 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened at room temperature
- Juice from 1 Lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F to prepare for roasting the grapes evenly.
- Prepare grapes: Spread the red California grapes on a baking sheet. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and olive oil over them, then sprinkle with chopped fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat all grapes evenly.
- Roast grapes: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the grapes for 30 minutes until they become soft, wilted, and caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Make whipped feta: In a food processor or blender, combine the softened feta, cream cheese, and lemon juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Serve: Arrange the roasted grapes alongside the whipped feta on a serving platter. Add pita chips for dipping or spread the whipped feta on toast and top with roasted grapes for a delightful bite.
Notes
- Ensure the feta and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easy blending and a smooth texture.
- You can substitute fresh rosemary with thyme or oregano for a different herbal note.
- For a sweeter touch, add a drizzle of honey over the roasted grapes before serving.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm roasted grapes and cool, creamy whipped feta.
- Use seedless grapes for easier eating and better texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
