A Duo of Delicious Spreads
If you’re entertaining, these simple and delicious spreads might be just what you’re looking for. Serve these wine-friendly spreads individually or as a colorful duo with a basket of flatbread crackers, crostini or pita crisps. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Sparkling Wine or Sparkling Rosé.
Ingredients:
Creamy Roasted Red Pepper and Feta
- 1 large roasted red bell pepper, skinned and seeded
- 6 ounces (scant 1 cup/180 g) feta
- 1 large garlic clove
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Hot red pepper and sea salt to taste
Spinach, Cilantro and Tahini Spread
- 1 cup (1.5 oz/45 g) packed baby spinach leaves (no stems)
- ½ cup (65 g) frozen peas (no need to thaw)
- 1 green onion, white and pale green part only, sliced
- 6 to 8 sprigs cilantro, no thick stems
- 1 small garlic clove, sliced
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) tahini
- Sea salt
- Lemon juice, as needed
Directions:
Creamy Roasted Red Pepper and Feta
In a food processor, puree all ingredients until fully blended. The mixture will be soft. Chill slightly to firm it.
Spinach, Cilantro and Tahini Spread
Put the spinach, peas, green onion, cilantro and garlic in a food processor and process until finely chopped. Add the tahini and a large pinch of salt and blend until smooth. Taste for salt and add a few drops of lemon juice if needed to brighten the flavor.
Suggested Pairings:
Callaway Winery ~ NV Sparkling Bella Rosé – Elegant in both color and flavor, this charming wine greets you with juicy peach aromas touched with spicy white pepper.
South Coast Winery ~ Extra Dry Brut – Delicate apple and berry with toasty yeast notes.
Thornton Winery ~ NV Brut – A blend of primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc, giving our wine exciting, crisp fruit characters while taking on a clean and straightforward yeast flavor from the lengthy tirage time.
Wilson Creek Winery ~ Rosé Sparkling Wine – Crisp, elegant and flavorful.
Recipe and photo courtesy of the Wine Institute of California.
