Imagine a sophisticated appetizer that combines the crisp, slightly bitter notes of endive with the creamy richness of herbed cheese and the sweet, caramelized warmth of apples. This French-inspired recipe is not just a dish; it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant, mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your guests asking for seconds before they've finished their firsts!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 endive heads, halved
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 2 apples, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and let soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.
- Wash endive heads thoroughly under cold water, pat dry with clean kitchen towel, and carefully halve each head lengthwise.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with finely chopped fresh chives and dill. Mix until herbs are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Wash and core apples, then slice them into thin, uniform half-moon shapes approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter. Once butter is melted and slightly bubbling, add apple slices.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over apple slices and cook for 4-5 minutes, gently turning occasionally, until apples are golden brown and caramelized.
- Remove caramelized apples from heat and let cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each endive half with herbed cream cheese mixture.
- Top each filled endive with 2-3 caramelized apple slices.
- Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately at room temperature.
Tips
- Choose fresh, crisp endive heads with tight, pale leaves for the best texture and presentation.
- Allow cream cheese to soften naturally at room temperature to ensure smooth, easy mixing with herbs.
- When caramelizing apples, use a non-stick skillet and watch carefully to prevent burning - golden brown is what you're aiming for.
- For a professional touch, use a piping bag to fill endive halves with cream cheese for uniform, elegant presentation.
- Serve immediately after preparation to maintain the contrast between cool cream cheese and warm caramelized apples.
- For added depth, consider using a mix of apple varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for complex flavor.
- If preparing in advance, keep components separate and assemble just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
