Cheese and herb cups

Cheese and Herb Baskets

Welcome to the culinary universe of holidays, where every meal becomes a special occasion to savor exquisite dishes! Today, I invite you to explore a simple and delicious appetizer recipe - cheese and herb baskets. This dish was the star of our Christmas table, providing a pleasant contrast to heavier treats and enriching the feast with a fresh note.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 9 baskets

Ingredients:
- 1/2 package of frozen dough (one package contains 2 sheets, so we use only one)
- 300 g fresh cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Pepper, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- Basil, to taste
- 1 bunch of green onion
- 1/2 bunch of parsley
- 1/2 bunch of dill
- Poppy and sesame seeds (optional)

Recipe history:
Cheese baskets are a versatile and refined choice in kitchens around the world, perfectly suited for festive occasions. These appetizers are often associated with moments of conviviality, where family and friends gather to enjoy delicious dishes. Over time, each culture has added a personal touch, and our recipe combines the simplicity of the dough with the richness of flavors from fresh cheese and herbs.

Step by step:

1. Thawing the dough: Start by thawing the dough at room temperature. This is an essential step, as the dough needs to be pliable for easy rolling.

2. Preparing the shape: Roll out a sheet of dough on the working surface using a rolling pin. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out 9 circles from the dough. If you want to make baskets, gently press the dough around the edges of muffin tins.

3. Preparing for baking: It is important to prick the dough in 2-3 places with a fork to prevent puffing during baking. Place parchment paper in each mold and add a few beans or rice (this will act as a weight to maintain the shape).

4. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven at low heat (180°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the dough turns lightly golden. I advise against opening the oven door too often to prevent heat from escaping.

5. Cooling the baskets: After baking, remove the baskets from the molds and let them cool on a rack. This step is essential to prevent moisture from accumulating inside.

6. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the fresh cheese with sour cream, salt, sweet paprika, pepper, oregano, and basil. Add the finely chopped herbs: green onion, parsley, and dill. This mixture will add a vibrant flavor and creamy texture.

7. Filling the baskets: Using a spoon, fill each dough basket with 2-3 teaspoons of the cheese and herb mixture.

8. Decorating: For a more attractive appearance, you can sprinkle poppy or sesame seeds on top of the baskets and add a few parsley leaves for a splash of color.

Useful tips:
- Choose quality fresh cheese, as it will influence the final taste of the dish. Opt for cottage cheese or ricotta, which provide a creamy texture and delicate flavor.
- If you want a lower-calorie option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- These baskets can be prepared a day in advance, and the filling can be stored in the refrigerator. Fill the baskets just before serving to maintain their crisp texture.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use puff pastry? Yes, puff pastry will give a fluffier texture, but make sure to follow the same baking steps.
2. What other fillings can I use? You can experiment with meat, vegetable, or even chocolate cream fillings for a sweet version.
3. How can I store the baskets? They can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispness.

Serving:
These baskets are ideal as appetizers at parties, family gatherings, or other festive occasions. They pair perfectly with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade, adding a touch of flavor to the meal.

Possible variations:
Try adding olives or roasted peppers to the cheese filling for an extra kick. You can also use various fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro, to change the flavors.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to get cooking! Cheese and herb baskets are ready to be enjoyed, bringing a touch of joy and flavor in every bite. Enjoy your meal!