This is the time of the year when I start
thinking about holiday food — dips, snacks, side dishes, mains. I’m interested
in trying things that I’ve never made before so that I can offer something fresh
and new to my guests. I spotted this recipe in Bon Appétit. I was attracted to
it by virtue of the fact that I had all of the ingredients on hand, including
the giardiniera that I had bought during the summer to use in a sandwich
recipe, and never used it again. Bon Appétit had you stirring together all of
the ingredients with the exception of the giardiniera, using it on top, with
the oil from the relish drizzled overall. That didn’t particularly appeal to me
for two reasons. First of all, I didn’t like the idea of the oil drizzled on
top. Ew. Second, once that top layer containing the giardiniera is eaten away,
you end up with basically just cream cheese at the bottom. Seasoned cream
cheese, sure, but cream cheese, nonetheless. So I decided to put everything
into the food processor to ensure that the bold taste of the spicy relish was
enjoyed in every bite. It worked! This is a snack that you can make one to two
days ahead (maybe more, if I’m honest), and pull it out when you need it. After
all, during the holidays, you just never know who’s going to happen by. It’s
great on chips and crackers, even wavy potato chips work here because this
tends to be on the creamy side. Me? I loved it with Fritos.
Adapted from Bon Appétit
8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
½ c. finely grated Parmesan
½ c. sour cream
Kosher salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 c. well drained, coarsely chopped, oil-based giardiniera
Process cream cheese, Parmesan, and sour cream in a food processor until combined and smooth; season with salt and pepper (to taste) and pulse until incorporated but dip is not completely smooth. Add giardiniera and pulse until combined.
Transfer dip to a small bowl and serve with the dippers of your
choice. This can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.
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6 comments:
I too like to find new and interesting appetizers for the holidays. This is totally new to me. I've never heard of giardiniera before. The recipe sounds wonderful and especially with your redesign of it.
I would definitely eat it with Fritos! I've never had giardiniera, is it anything like pickled pepperoncini? Whatever, I know I'd like it!
Yummy!
You know, I don't think I have ever had that relish before, altho I have seen it in the store. I'm a Fritos gal, too and they just seem to do so much better with dips than potato chips. Let the holiday entertaining begin!
Linda, I’ve never had pickled pepperoncini so I can’t really say. Having this on hand, certainly makes for a quick and easy dip that people will think you’ve labored over.
Looks Good!!
hugs
Donna
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