Basil Parmesan Spread (Red, White, and Green Christmas Appetizer)

This spread recipe layers red sun-dried tomatoes, green pesto, and white cream cheese for a festive make-ahead Christmas appetizer.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Calories: 287 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
• ¼ cup finely chopped walnuts
• ¼ cup olive oil
• salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon chopped garlic
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup loosely packed, coarsely chopped fresh spinach
• 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
• 1 (4 ounce) log Montrachet goat cheese, at room temperature
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Line a 3-cup bowl with plastic wrap, leaving a 4-inch overhang.

Step 2

Combine spinach, basil, and garlic in a food processor and chop finely. Add Parmesan cheese and process until almost smooth. Keep processor running while pouring in oil; process until a smooth paste forms. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3

Mix cream cheese and goat cheese together in a bowl.

Step 4

Spread 1/3 of the cheese mixture in the bottom of the prepared bowl. Spread 1/2 of the spinach mixture on top. Top with 1/2 of the walnuts. Add 1/2 of the sun-dried tomatoes. Repeat with remaining cheese mixture, spinach mixture, walnuts, and tomatoes, ending with cheese mixture. Fold plastic overhang on top and gently push down to compress layers.

Step 5

Refrigerate for 8 hours, or up to 3 days. Unfold plastic top and invert bowl onto a serving plate. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.