Cheese-Nut Pâté

Cheese-Nut Pâté Recipe with Cream Cheese and Cheddar

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cheese-Nut Pâté is a delicious and creamy appetizer that is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a snack. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cream cheese, cottage cheese, and cheddar with the nutty crunch of ground walnuts. Topped with creamy ricotta and garnished with olives and parsley, this pâté is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

The origins of Cheese-Nut Pâté are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in Europe, where cheese and nuts have long been popular ingredients in savory dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a favorite among those who enjoy rich and flavorful appetizers.

Ingredients

3 tbsp butter
1 cup finely minced onion
8 oz (227 g) cream cheese
1 lb (454 g) cottage cheese
1 cup ground almonds and walnuts combined
0.5 tsp salt
lots of black pepper
0.5 tsp dill
2 tsp prepared mustard
2 to 3 tsp fresh lime or lemon juice
2 cups grated cheddar

Topping

1 cup ricotta
a few walnut halves, whole almonds and whole or chopped olives
radishes, cucumber slices and parsley sprigs

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
Grease a standard loaf pan with 2 tbsp of butter.
In a separate pan, sauté the onions in the remaining butter until soft, about 4 minutes.
Using a food processor, combine the cream cheese, cottage cheese, ground nuts, salt, pepper, dill, mustard, lime juice, and cheddar until the mixture is uniform.
Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour.
Allow the loaf to cool completely in the pan, then chill it for at least several hours before turning it onto a serving platter.
To decorate, spread ricotta cheese all over the loaf as if frosting a cake.
Place garnish over the loaf as desired.
Serve the loaf with dark bread or crackers.

Variations

Add chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a fresh and flavorful twist.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
Substitute different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly combine the ingredients in a food processor to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Be sure to chill the pâté for several hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a unique flavor profile.

- Serve the pâté with a variety of crackers, bread, and fresh vegetables for a delicious and satisfying appetizer spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cheese-Nut Pâté with dark bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a delicious and satisfying appetizer spread.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to combine the ingredients for a smooth and creamy texture.

- Bake the pâté in a loaf pan for easy slicing and serving.

- Chill the pâté before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute almonds or pecans for the walnuts for a different flavor profile.

- Use different types of cheese, such as feta or gouda, for a unique twist.

- Swap out the ricotta for sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter topping.

Make Ahead Tips

Cheese-Nut Pâté can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving. Simply cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and chill until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate the pâté with olives, parsley sprigs, or additional nuts for a beautiful and appetizing presentation. Serve on a platter with crackers, bread, and fresh vegetables for a stunning appetizer spread.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Cheese-Nut Pâté with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for a perfect pairing. The creamy texture of the pâté pairs well with the acidity and fruitiness of the wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pâté in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pâté in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cheese-Nut Pâté contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cheese-Nut Pâté contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cheese-Nut Pâté contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cheese-Nut Pâté contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheese-Nut Pâté is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese, cottage cheese, cheddar, ricotta) and nuts (walnuts), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Cheese-Nut Pâté is a rich and creamy appetizer that is high in fat and protein. It is a good source of calcium and vitamins A and B12, but may not be suitable for those with dairy or nut allergies.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a chilly autumn evening and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Cheese-Nut Pâté caught my eye and I knew I had to try it.

I had always been a lover of cheese and nuts, so the combination of the two in a pâté was intriguing to me. The recipe called for a blend of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, chopped nuts, and a hint of garlic and herbs. It seemed simple enough, but I knew that the real challenge would be in getting the flavors just right.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, carefully measuring out each one as I went. I grated the cheddar cheese, softened the cream cheese, and chopped the nuts into fine pieces. As I mixed everything together in a bowl, a savory aroma filled the kitchen and I could hardly wait to taste the finished product.

After shaping the mixture into a smooth pâté, I placed it in the refrigerator to chill for a few hours. The anticipation was almost too much to bear as I waited for it to be ready. Finally, the time came to take it out and serve it up.

I spread the Cheese-Nut Pâté onto thin slices of crusty bread and topped it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. As I took my first bite, a wave of flavor washed over me. The tangy cheddar cheese blended perfectly with the creamy texture of the cream cheese, while the nuts added a satisfying crunch. It was a culinary masterpiece, if I do say so myself.

As I savored each bite, I thought back to how I had come to discover this delicious recipe. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, with a wealth of knowledge on all things culinary.

One day, as I sat at her feet watching her work her magic, she pulled out a worn recipe card from an old tin box. It was for her famous Cheese-Nut Pâté, a dish that had been passed down through generations in our family. She explained that she had learned it from a dear friend many years ago and had since perfected it to her own taste.

I was fascinated by the story behind the recipe and begged my grandmother to teach me how to make it. She smiled and handed me the card, telling me to study it well and practice until I got it just right. And so began my journey to master the art of Cheese-Nut Pâté.

Over the years, I made the pâté countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own preferences. I added a dash of paprika for a bit of heat, swapped out the herbs for ones that I grew in my own garden, and experimented with different types of nuts for added crunch.

Each time I made the Cheese-Nut Pâté, it brought back memories of my grandmother and the days we spent together in the kitchen. She had taught me so much about cooking and instilled in me a love for trying new recipes and creating delicious dishes for my own family.

And now, as I sit here enjoying a slice of the pâté that I have made so many times before, I feel a sense of pride in carrying on the tradition that was passed down to me. The Cheese-Nut Pâté may have originated from a dear friend many years ago, but it has become a beloved recipe in my own family, thanks to the guidance and wisdom of my grandmother.

As I finish the last bite of my pâté, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the memories and stories that are woven into this simple dish. It may just be a recipe, but to me, it is a piece of my family history, a connection to the past that I will always treasure. And as I close the cookbook and put it back on the shelf, I know that I will continue to make Cheese-Nut Pâté for years to come, sharing its delicious flavors and the stories behind it with those I love.