Pairing Cream Cheese with Wine- A Guide to Hosting the Perfect House Party

Introduction

Cream cheese, a velvety and versatile dairy delight has always held a cherished place in the world of party appetizers. Its smooth texture and tangy taste make it an excellent base for a range of flavors making it suitable for both savory and sweet dishes. The art of combining cream cheese with wine takes gatherings to culinary experiences, enabling hosts to impress their guests effortlessly. In this article, we will explore several recipes that expertly combine the richness of cream cheese with the notes of different wines, creating impeccable pairings for your upcoming house party.

Recipe 1: Classic Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon Canapés with Chardonnay

Ingredients:

- 1/2 pound sliced smoked salmon

- 8 ounces softened cream cheese

- 1 tablespoon chopped dill

- Sliced and toasted French baguette

- Capers and lemon zest for garnish

Steps:

1. Combine the cream cheese with the chopped dill.
2. Generously spread the mixture, on each slice of baguette.
3. Top it off with smoked salmon, a few capers and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay complements the smoky salmon and rich cream cheese.

Tips and Tricks: Use room-temperature cream cheese for easy spreading. Add thin cucumber slices for an extra crunch.

Side Dish Suggestion: A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can be served with this dish.

Recipe 2: Herbed Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Pinot Noir

Ingredients:

- 16 large mushrooms, with the stems removed

- 8 ounces of softened cream cheese

- 2 tablespoons of chopped mixed herbs (such as parsley, thyme and chives)

- 1 minced garlic clove

- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Steps:

1. Start by removing the stems from the mushrooms.
2. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, chopped mixed herbs (such as parsley, thyme and chives) and minced garlic clove.
3. Fill each mushroom cap generously with the herbed cream cheese mixture.
4. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a touch of flavor.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
6. Bake in an oven at 350°F (180°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and lightly browned.
7. Once cooked, remove from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Pairing suggestion: Enjoy these stuffed mushrooms with a glass of Pinot Noir wine.

Tips and Tricks: To make stuffing easier, use a spoon or a piping bag.

Side Dish Suggestion: Enjoy it alongside a Caesar salad.

Recipe 3: Cream Cheese and Fig Crostini with Merlot

Ingredients:

- 8 oz of softened cream cheese

- Sliced and toasted baguette

- Fresh figs (1 cup) sliced

- Honey and crushed walnuts for garnishing

Steps:

1. Spread cream cheese on each slice of crostini.
2. Top it off with slices of figs drizzle some honey and sprinkle crushed walnuts.

Wine Pairing: Enhance the sweetness of the figs with a fruity Merlot.

Tips and Tricks: For a kick add a dash of pepper as a finishing touch.

Side Dish Idea: Serve it alongside olives and nuts.

Recipe 4: Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese Spread with Sauvignon Blanc

Ingredients:

- Softened cream cheese (8 oz)

- Minced garlic (2 cloves)

- Finely chopped basil, chives and parsley (1 tablespoon each)

- Serve with crackers or crusty bread

Instructions:

1. Blend the cream cheese with minced garlic and chopped herbs.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for an hour before serving it alongside crackers or crusty bread.

Wine Pairing: Enhance the herb flavors by pairing this spread with a Sauvignon Blanc.

Tips and Tricks: For intense flavors allow the spread to sit overnight.

Side Dish: Accompany this dish with cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices.

Recipe 5: Chocolate Cream Cheese Truffles with Port Wine

Ingredients:

- Softened cream cheese (8 oz)

- Melted chocolate (1 cup)

- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup)

- Cocoa powder, for coating

Instructions:

1. Mix together the cream cheese, melted chocolate and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Chill the mixture, then shape it into balls. Coat them in cocoa powder.

Wine Pairing: The rich flavors of these truffles pair beautifully with a glass of Port wine.

Tips and Tricks: To prevent sticking, keep your hands wet when rolling the truffles.

Side Dish: Serve these truffles alongside strawberries and whipped cream.

Conclusion

Cream cheese has an ability to elevate simple ingredients into delectable party favorites. When paired with the right wine, these dishes create a symphony of flavors turning your house gathering into not only a social occasion but also a culinary journey. It's important to maintain balance in these pairings allowing both the cream cheese creations and the wine to complement each other harmoniously. Here's to an unforgettable gathering filled with delightful combinations! Cheers!