Preparing for a gathering can be such a joyous occasion, especially when you have a delicious dish to tantalize your guests’ taste buds. One of the easiest and most delightful appetizers to serve is a Festive Ham and Cheese Spread. Combining the rich flavors of ham, creamy cheeses, and a touch of herbs, this spread is sure to become a favorite at any party or gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cozy evening with friends or planning a festive celebration, this recipe is a must-try.
Festive Ham and Cheese Spread
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced ham
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend the ingredients together until well combined and smooth.
2. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more garlic powder or black pepper for a bolder flavor.
3. Once the spread is well mixed and seasoned to your liking, transfer it to a serving dish. You can shape it into a ball or a log for a more elegant presentation, or simply spread it in the dish for a casual look.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the spread for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. This step also helps the spread to firm up slightly for easier spreading.
5. When you’re ready to serve, take the spread out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to spread on crackers or slices of baguette.
6. Arrange your choice of crackers or sliced baguette on a platter next to the ham and cheese spread. Add a small spreading knife for easy serving.
7. Invite your guests to dig in and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in this Festive Ham and Cheese Spread. Watch as the creamy cheese, savory ham, and aromatic herbs come together to create a mouthwatering appetizer that everyone will love.
8. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy the spread on sandwiches or simply spread on toast for a quick and tasty snack.
Festive Ham and Cheese Spread is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Whether you serve it at a holiday party, a game night with friends, or simply as a treat for yourself, this flavorful spread will surely be a hit. So, get ready to impress your guests with this delicious appetizer that brings together the comforting flavors of ham and cheese in a delightful spread!
