Savory Apricot and Blue Cheese Canapés
Indulge in these delightful Savory Apricot and Blue Cheese Canapés, which combine the sweetness of dried apricots with the rich, tangy flavor of blue cheese. This sophisticated appetizer is perfect for gatherings, impressing guests with its unique taste and elegant presentation. The addition of toasted nuts and fresh parsley elevates each bite, making them not only delicious but visually appealing as well. Serve them at your next party or as a tasteful addition to any cheese platter—these canapés are sure to be a hit!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pecans or Walnut Halves
64 (Toasted)
Cambozola Cheese or Gorgonzola
1 cup (Softened)
Cream Cheese
2 (3 ounce) packages (Softened)
Fresh Ground Pepper
1 teaspoon (Freshly ground)
Dried Apricot Halves
1 pound (Uncut)
Fresh Parsley
1/2 cup (Minced fine)
Instructions
1
Preheat your frying pan over medium heat. Add the pecans or walnut halves and toast them for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once they are golden and fragrant, remove them from the pan and allow them to cool.
2
In a small mixing bowl or food processor, combine the softened Cambozola or Gorgonzola cheese with the cream cheese and freshly ground pepper. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3
Take each dried apricot half and spread an equal amount of the cheese mixture onto the cut side.
4
Carefully press a toasted nut onto the cheese-covered apricot, allowing it to adhere.
5
Gently press the cheese side of the apricot down into the minced parsley, coating it evenly for added flavor and a pop of color.
6
Arrange the apricot canapés cheese-side up on a serving platter and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Apricot and Blue Cheese Canapés?
They are a sophisticated appetizer that combines the sweetness of dried apricots with tangy blue cheese, cream cheese, and toasted nuts.
What kind of blue cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using either Cambozola for a creamier taste or Gorgonzola for a bolder, more pungent flavor.
How do I toast the nuts for the canapés?
Preheat a frying pan over medium heat, add the nuts, and toast for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, the recipe specifically suggests using either pecan or walnut halves depending on your preference.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 6 primary ingredients: pecans or walnuts, blue cheese, cream cheese, ground pepper, dried apricots, and fresh parsley.
Is this apricot appetizer vegetarian?
Yes, these canapés are vegetarian-friendly as they consist of fruit, cheese, nuts, and herbs.
Can I make these canapés in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate them on a platter until you are ready to serve.
What is the purpose of the fresh parsley?
The minced parsley provides a pop of color and a fresh herbal flavor when the cheese-covered side of the apricot is pressed into it.
Should the cheese be at room temperature before mixing?
Yes, the recipe specifies using softened Cambozola and cream cheese so they blend into a smooth mixture.
How many dried apricots should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of dried apricot halves, which typically equates to around 64 pieces.
Do I need a food processor to make the cheese filling?
A food processor is optional; you can also use a small mixing bowl and a spoon to combine the ingredients until smooth.
Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
Dried apricots are preferred for this recipe because they provide a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness that holds the cheese topping well.
What makes this recipe 'gourmet'?
The combination of high-quality blue cheese, toasted nuts, and elegant presentation makes it a gourmet-level finger food.
Is the black pepper necessary?
Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle spice that balances the sweetness of the fruit and the richness of the cheese, but it can be adjusted to taste.
How long does it take to toast the nuts?
It takes approximately 4 minutes of stirring over medium heat to achieve a golden, toasted finish.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
While the specific serving size isn't listed, 1 pound of apricots yields enough for a medium to large party gathering.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
You can use Neufchâtel or even a mild mascarpone as a substitute, though cream cheese provides the best consistency for spreading.
How do I assemble the canapés?
Spread the cheese mixture on the apricot, press a nut on top, then dip the cheese side into minced parsley.
What kind of texture can I expect?
These canapés offer a delightful contrast between the chewy apricot, creamy cheese, and crunchy toasted nut.
Can I add other herbs?
While parsley is standard, you could experiment with fresh thyme or chives for a different flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cheese fresh and the nuts from getting soft.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, with only a few minutes of toasting and simple assembly, it is considered a quick and easy recipe.
Should the apricots be cut?
The recipe uses uncut dried apricot halves as the base for the cheese and nut topping.
Can I use salted nuts?
Unsalted nuts are generally preferred to avoid making the appetizer too salty, especially since blue cheese is already quite savory.
What is Cambozola cheese?
Cambozola is a triple cream cheese that is a cross between Camembert and Gorgonzola, offering a mild and creamy blue cheese flavor.
How do I prevent the nuts from burning?
Stir them frequently and remove them from the pan immediately once they become fragrant and golden.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The listed ingredients (apricots, cheese, nuts, parsley, pepper) are naturally gluten-free, but always check your cheese labels.
What is the best way to serve these?
Arrange them cheese-side up on an elegant serving platter, perhaps as part of a larger cheese board.
Can I use pre-toasted nuts?
Yes, but freshly toasting them adds a superior aroma and crunch to the final appetizer.
How much cheese mixture goes on each apricot?
Apply an equal amount to each apricot half, roughly enough to cover the surface and hold the nut in place.