Crispy Cucumber-Pomegranate Goat Cheese Bites
These delightful crispy bites combine the refreshing crunch of cucumber, the sweet burst of pomegranate, and the creamy tang of goat cheese for a perfect appetizer. Inspired by Padma Lakshmi's 'TANGY TART HOT & SWEET', this modern take transforms traditional open-faced tea sandwiches into vibrant toasts that are perfect for festive gatherings or casual brunches. The combination of colors—green from the cucumber, red from the pomegranate, and white from the cheese—makes these bites not only tasty but visually stunning. Additionally, the recipe allows for personalization with creamy cream cheese balancing out the goat cheese's distinct flavor. Whether you're entertaining during the holidays or simply looking for a fresh snack, these bites are sure to impress your guests with their flavor and presentation.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
White bread or French bread
10 slices (toasted or grilled on both sides)
Olive oil
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Goat cheese
2 ounces (softened)
Dried dill
1 - 1.5 teaspoons (or fresh dill (2 - 3 teaspoons))
Pomegranate seeds
1/2 cup (fresh)
Seedless cucumber
1/2 - 1 (cut into about forty 1/8-inch slices)
Instructions
1
If desired, combine olive oil with softened goat cheese or cream cheese in a small bowl and mix until smooth.
2
Spread the mixture evenly onto each slice of toasted bread, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
3
Lightly sprinkle dill weed over the cheese spread for added freshness and color.
4
Next, arrange approximately 4-6 slices of cucumber on top of the cheese spread, depending on the size of the bread.
5
Carefully sprinkle the fresh pomegranate seeds over the cucumber slices, gently pressing them into the cheese to help them adhere.
6
To finish, cut each slice diagonally to create triangles, enhancing the visual appeal.
7
Serve these toasts open-faced on a platter, allowing guests to appreciate their colorful presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Crispy Cucumber-Pomegranate Goat Cheese Bites.
What inspired this dish?
It was inspired by Padma Lakshmi's 'TANGY TART HOT & SWEET'.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian.
What type of bread should I use?
You can use either white bread or French bread for this recipe.
How should the bread be prepared?
The bread should be toasted or grilled on both sides.
What kind of cheese is needed?
The recipe uses goat cheese, though cream cheese can also be used as a substitute or balance.
How much goat cheese is required?
You will need 2 ounces of softened goat cheese.
What is the role of olive oil in the recipe?
Olive oil is optional and can be mixed with the cheese to make it smoother.
How much olive oil should be used?
The recipe suggests 1/4 teaspoon of olive oil.
Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?
Yes, you can use 2 to 3 teaspoons of fresh dill instead of 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of dried dill.
What type of cucumber is recommended?
Seedless cucumbers are recommended for this recipe.
How many cucumber slices are needed in total?
You should prepare about forty 1/8-inch slices from half to a full cucumber.
How much pomegranate seeds do I need?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of fresh pomegranate seeds.
How many slices of bread does the recipe call for?
The recipe uses 10 slices of bread.
How many cucumber slices go on each piece of bread?
Arrange approximately 4 to 6 slices of cucumber on top of the cheese spread per slice.
How should the toasts be cut for serving?
Cut each slice diagonally to create triangles for better visual appeal.
How do you ensure the pomegranate seeds stay on?
Gently press the seeds into the cheese spread to help them adhere.
What are the primary colors of this appetizer?
The dish features green from the cucumber, red from the pomegranate, and white from the cheese.
Is this dish good for holiday parties?
Yes, the festive colors and fresh taste make it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Can these be served at a brunch?
Absolutely, these vibrant toasts are a great addition to any casual brunch.
How should the bites be presented?
Serve them open-faced on a platter to showcase their colorful presentation.
Is the cheese spread before or after the dill?
The cheese is spread first, then the dill is sprinkled on top.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 6 ingredients required for this recipe.
Does the recipe require any cooking?
The only cooking involved is toasting or grilling the bread.
What is the texture of this bite?
It is described as having a refreshing crunch and a creamy tang.
Is this considered a snack or an appetizer?
It can be served as both an appetizer and a snack.
How thick should the cucumber slices be?
The cucumber slices should be approximately 1/8-inch thick.
Can I mix cream cheese with goat cheese?
Yes, combining them can help balance the goat cheese's distinct flavor.
Is this a modern version of a traditional dish?
Yes, it is a modern take on traditional open-faced tea sandwiches.
Should the goat cheese be cold when mixing?
No, the goat cheese should be softened for easier mixing and spreading.