Two Appetizers for Your Holiday Gatherings

Roasted Red Pepper and Basil Crostini

Make these delicious crostini by Leslie Dabney @thevineyardmomliving for a rustic-but-elegant holiday appetizer. They are easy to assemble, full of vibrant color and texture, and evoke holiday cheer.

Serves 4–6

1 baguette cut into ¼-inch slices (10-12 slices)

½ cup finely chopped roasted red bell pepper

1 clove garlic, minced

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

4 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil

1/8 teaspoon each salt and pepper

Small leaves of basil for garnish

 

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Brush both sides of the bread slices with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Place slices on a baking sheet. Bake for 7-10 minutes or until crusty and brown.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine chopped red peppers, garlic, remaining extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, basil, salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Top each crostini with a teaspoon of the red pepper and basil mixture. Garnish with a small basil leaf. Serve immediately.

Livermore Valley wine pairing suggestions: Bernardus Vineyard 2023 Pinot Noir and 2016 Deer Hill Vineyards Sangiovese

 

Whipped Goat Cheese with Pistachios and Cranberries

Crunchy pistachios and sweet-tart cranberries make this a festive, effortless holiday appetizer by Leslie Dabney @thevineyardmomliving. The creamy texture and bright pops of color bring elegance and seasonal flavor to any gathering.

Serves 4-6

10 ounces goat cheese, room temperature

4 ounces cream cheese

2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

¼ teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

½ cup chopped dried cranberries

¼ cup chopped pistachios

1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary

Place goat cheese, cream cheese, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper into a mixing bowl and mix until smooth and creamy. You may want to use a hand mixer or food processor.

Spoon goat cheese mixture onto a serving platter or bowl and decorate the top with the chopped dried cranberries, pistachios, and rosemary. Drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil over the top. Serve with bread or crackers.

Store in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Livermore Valley wine pairing suggestions: Wente Vineyards Brut Sparkling and Steven Kent Winery 2023 Cabernet Franc