Something from Nothing:
I’m often left with grapes that the family has deemed too soft and they are left to die a slow death at the bottom of the crisper drawer. I also frequently have remnants of recipe experiments gone bad lingering in the recesses of my fridge. This time I had a container of goat cheese and mascarpone cheese that did not work well in a dessert crostini experiment, but is delicious in these squares. Not one to waste, I decided to turn these ingredients into an appetizer for my Mom’s birthday party. She is the thriftiest person I know, so I knew she’d not only appreciate the recipe, but the backstory of its ingredients as well.
I have roasted grapes a few times before and I really love them! I have used them in a dessert tart and in a savory sauce. It’s a great way to use up grapes that are turning soft and wrinkly. The grapes are roasted with shallots and are delicious over the creamy cheeses and the crispy crescent dough crust. It makes for a savory and sweet appetizer that disappears quickly!
Bake the Crust:
Roast the Grapes & Shallots:
Mix & Spread the Cheeses:
Assemble:
I found it easier to cut the squares before drizzling with balsamic glaze and sprinkling with chives. It kept the glaze from getting smeared while being cut. A squeeze bottle is handy to drizzle the glaze, but a spoon works too!
Nancy
I usually just toss the grapes dying in my refrigerator. I’ll have to try roasting them! Your recipe looks delicious.
Christina Verrelli
Thanks Nancy!! I’m on a roasted grape kick!