Cheese paste

Cheese and stuffed vegetable appetizer: a quick and delicious recipe

Welcome to the culinary world! Today I present you with a simple yet extremely tasty recipe: a cheese and stuffed vegetable appetizer. It is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you are hosting a party or want to impress your family at dinner. This appetizer is not only tasty but also full of colors and textures, and its preparation will take no more than 30 minutes. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 appetizers

Ingredients:

- 350 g feta cheese (or cottage cheese if you prefer a milder taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons sour cream (choose quality sour cream for a creamier taste)
- 75 g soft butter (leave it at room temperature to make it easy to mix)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (you can use sweet or spicy paprika, depending on your preference)
- 1/4 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt (to taste)
- 5 medium tomatoes
- 5 cucumbers

Ingredient details:

Feta cheese is the main ingredient of this recipe, being rich in protein and calcium. It provides a salty taste and creamy texture, perfect for stuffing. Sour cream adds a touch of finesse, while butter makes the mixture softer and more delicious. Paprika will give the dish a hint of color and a slightly smoky flavor. Tomatoes and cucumbers are not only healthy but also bring a unique freshness to the appetizer.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the cheese: Start by crumbling the feta cheese in a bowl. You can use a fork or a hand mixer to achieve a fine texture.

2. Mixing the ingredients: Add the sour cream, soft butter, paprika, and finely chopped onion to the bowl with cheese. Mix everything with a spatula or wooden spoon until the ingredients are well combined. Taste the mixture and add a little salt if necessary.

3. Preparing the tomatoes and cucumbers: Wash the tomatoes and cucumbers well. Cut the tomatoes in half and scoop out the insides with a spoon. Sprinkle a little salt inside the tomatoes to help drain the water. Leave them upside down on a paper towel for 15 minutes.

4. Preparing the cucumbers: Like the tomatoes, cut the cucumbers in half and scoop out the insides. This will help with easier stuffing. Place them upside down for 15 minutes as well, but do not sprinkle with salt as they will become mushy.

5. Stuffing the vegetables: After the vegetables have drained, fill each half of the tomato and cucumber with the cheese mixture. Use a spoon or a piping bag to make this easier.

6. Decorating: If you have time, you can garnish the appetizer with slices of ham, olives, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley. These will not only add a pleasant appearance but also a fantastic taste.

7. Serving: Arrange the stuffed vegetables on a flat plate and serve them immediately or refrigerate them for a while before serving. This appetizer is delicious both at room temperature and cold.

Chef's tip:

If you want to personalize the recipe, you can add chopped olives, bell peppers, or spices like oregano to the filling, which will bring Mediterranean flavors. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta or mascarpone, for a creamier texture.

Pairings and suggestions:

This appetizer pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as a fruit cocktail or a glass of white wine. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for a light and healthy lunch.

Nutritional information:

Each serving of the appetizer contains approximately 150 kcal, being rich in protein due to the feta cheese. Tomatoes and cucumbers provide a considerable amount of vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of cheese, but keep in mind their taste and texture.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using vegan cheese and plant-based butter.

3. How long can I keep the appetizer?
It is recommended to consume the appetizer on the same day it was prepared to enjoy the freshness of the vegetables.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is for you to start cooking! This cheese and stuffed vegetable appetizer will surely become your and your loved ones' favorite. Enjoy your meal!