The penguin on the plate

Penguin on a Plate - A Fun and Delicious Appetizer

If you want to bring a smile to your guests' faces, this amusing and easy-to-make appetizer, called 'Penguin on a Plate', is the perfect choice. Not only does it look spectacular, but it is also simple to prepare, making it ideal for parties or festive meals. Let's get started!

Preparation time:
- Active time: 15 minutes
- Cooling time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 boiled egg
- 2 large black olives
- 50 g goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese with sour cream
- A few red currants (or pomegranate seeds as an alternative)
- 1 thin green onion stalk
- 2 slices of carrot

A bit of history:
Over time, dishes that combine creativity with taste have become very popular in gastronomy. The Penguin on a Plate is a perfect example of how we can transform simple ingredients into culinary works of art. This appetizer is not only a visual delight but also a way to teach children to appreciate cooking and healthy food.

Step by step:

1. Boil the egg: Start by boiling the egg. Place it in a pot with cold water and let it boil for 10-12 minutes. Once boiled, place it under cold running water to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.

2. Peeling the egg: Once the egg has cooled, carefully peel it, taking care not to damage its shape. It is recommended to do this step under cold water to remove the shell more easily.

3. Preparing the base: Cut a little off the bottom of the egg so that it stands stable on the plate. This is an essential detail, as an unstable penguin won't look very good!

4. Creating the wings and head: Use the two black olives to form the wings and head of the penguin. Cut each olive in half and secure them onto the egg using toothpicks. Make sure each wing is well attached so that it doesn't come off.

5. Preparing the beak and feet: From the two slices of carrot, cut a small portion to create the beak. For the penguin's feet, slightly notch the two carrot slices so that they look like flippers. Place them under the egg, ensuring they are well secured.

6. Mixing the cheeses: In a small bowl, combine the goat cheese with the cream cheese with sour cream. Mix well until you achieve a smooth consistency. This mixture will be the delicious base you will use to 'support' the penguin.

7. Adding the final details: Finely chop the green onion to sprinkle over the cheese mixture and add the red currants (or pomegranate seeds) for a splash of color and freshness.

8. Assembling the penguin: Place the penguin on a platter or in a plate, centering it in the middle of the cheese mixture. Now you have a fun and tasty appetizer, perfect for impressing everyone!

Serving suggestions:
This appetizer can be served alongside toasted bread or crackers, but it can also be combined with a fresh green salad to create a pleasant contrast. Additionally, a refreshing drink or a light white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Practical tips:
- If you don't have red currants, feel free to use pomegranate seeds - they add a sweet-tart flavor and a crunchy texture.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or cottage cheese, to vary the taste.
- Make sure the egg is well boiled to avoid the risk of salmonella. A hard-boiled egg is ideal for this recipe.

Nutritional benefits:
This appetizer is not only fun but also healthy. The egg is an excellent source of protein, while goat cheese is rich in calcium and vitamins A and D. Olives and vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use quail eggs? Yes, quail eggs can be used, but the proportions will need to be adjusted. They also have a distinct flavor and can add a touch of originality.

- How can I make the penguin more colorful? Add colorful vegetables, such as red or yellow bell peppers, to create additional details.

- Is this appetizer suitable for a children's party? Absolutely! Not only will it elicit laughter, but it will also encourage children to eat vegetables and cheese.

Now that you know how to prepare this fun and delicious appetizer, all that's left is to try it! Involve your family or friends in its preparation and enjoy the wonderful moments spent together. Bon appétit!