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Basil Cheese Loaf Recipe ๐ง๐ฟ
Overview:
This Basil Cheese Loaf recipe is a delightful combination of creamy cheeses, vibrant herbs, and savory sun-dried tomatoes, all layered into a loaf for a stunning presentation. Perfect for spreading on crackers or bread, this loaf is a showstopper at any gathering. With a prep time that includes chilling for 24 hours, it’s a make-ahead wonder that will have your guests coming back for more!
Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
8 oz | Cream cheese |
4 oz | Roquefort cheese |
1 | Fresh spinach leaves |
3/4 cup | Fresh parsley |
1/4 cup | Basil leaves |
1 | Garlic clove |
1/4 cup | Parmesan cheese |
1/4 cup | Sun-dried tomatoes |
1/4 cup | Walnuts |
Olive oil |
Instructions:
-
Prepare Cheese Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese and Roquefort cheese.
- Mix until smooth and well incorporated. Set aside.
-
Make Pesto Mixture:
- In the bowl of a food processor, combine the spinach, parsley, basil, and garlic.
- With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the food tube.
- Continue processing until the mixture is smooth and vibrant green.
- Transfer the pesto mixture to a separate bowl and add the walnuts and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix well to combine.
-
Layer in Loaf Pan:
- Line a 5-ยฝ x 2-ยฝ inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving extra wrap to hang over the sides.
- Spread 1/3 of the cheese mixture evenly onto the bottom of the pan.
- Next, spread half of the pesto mixture over the cheese layer.
- Arrange a layer of sun-dried tomatoes on top of the pesto.
- Repeat the layers: cheese, pesto, tomatoes, until ingredients are used, finishing with the remaining 1/3 of the cheese mixture.
-
Chill:
- Wrap the loaf pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the loaf to set.
-
To Serve:
- Remove the loaf from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Carefully invert the loaf onto a serving platter, using the plastic wrap to assist.
- Provide a cheese-slicing knife for easy serving.
- Serve alongside a basket of crackers and bread for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 2250
- Total Fat: 214.7g
- Saturated Fat: 86.8g
- Cholesterol: 373.5mg
- Sodium: 3439.2mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30.7g
- Dietary Fiber: 8.6g
- Sugar: 7.9g
- Protein: 64.9g
Tips:
- For a twist, try adding a layer of thinly sliced prosciutto or cooked bacon between the cheese and pesto layers.
- Customize the herb mixture to your taste by adding other fresh herbs like cilantro or dill.
- This loaf can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as pine nuts or almonds, for added texture and flavor.
Indulge in the creamy, herbaceous goodness of this Basil Cheese Loaf, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion!