Stormy Sea Appetizer (Print Version)

Wavy charcoal crackers with creamy goat cheese and fresh dill create a striking sea-inspired appetizer.

# Components:

→ Crackers

01 - 18 to 24 charcoal or squid ink crackers, wavy-shaped preferred

→ Cheese

02 - 5.3 ounces fresh goat cheese (chèvre), softened
03 - 1 tablespoon heavy cream, optional for extra smoothness

→ Garnish

04 - Fresh dill fronds or edible flowers, optional

# Directions:

01 - Place the wavy grey crackers in overlapping rows on a dark blue slate or serving platter to simulate ocean waves.
02 - Whip the goat cheese with heavy cream, if using, until smooth and spreadable.
03 - Using two teaspoons or a piping bag, place small mounds of goat cheese on the crackers to form whitecaps.
04 - Add a sprig of dill or a small edible flower atop each cheese mound, if desired.
05 - Present immediately for optimal freshness and appearance.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's a conversation starter that takes just minutes to pull together, proving that impressive doesn't mean complicated.
  • The contrast of tangy, creamy goat cheese against crispy, earthy-tasting crackers hits every texture and flavor note at once.
  • You can prep everything ahead and assemble moments before serving, which means less stress and more time with your guests.
02 -
  • Goat cheese that's even slightly cold will fight you; take it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before you start, and you'll save yourself frustration.
  • The crackers will soften if they sit assembled for more than 20 minutes, so plate this as close to serving time as possible—or keep the crackers and cheese separate and let guests assemble their own.
03 -
  • If charcoal crackers are hard to find, specialty food stores often carry squid ink versions that deliver the same moody aesthetic with a whisper of oceanic flavor.
  • Whip your goat cheese in a small bowl with the cream just before serving; it stays silkier that way than if it sits mixed for hours.
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