Description
This vibrant Snow Pea Holiday Wreath is a fresh and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Crisp-tender snow peas paired with juicy grape tomatoes surround a creamy, garlicky seasoned cream cheese dip, creating a visually stunning and flavorful centerpiece that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to display.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1/2 pound fresh snow peas, strings removed
- 2 cups grape tomatoes
Dip
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
Instructions
- Blanch the Snow Peas: In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add the snow peas and cook uncovered for 1-2 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are crisp-tender. Immediately drain and transfer the snow peas to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. Drain again and gently pat dry with paper towels.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Dip: In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and seasoned salt until smooth and well combined. Place this bowl in the center of your serving platter.
- Assemble the Wreath: Arrange the blanched snow peas in a circular wreath shape around the bowl of cream cheese dip. Fill in gaps and form the wreath by surrounding it evenly with grape tomatoes, creating a colorful and appealing holiday presentation.
Notes
- For best texture, do not overcook the snow peas; they should remain crisp with a bright color.
- Seasoned salt can be substituted with a pinch of sea salt and a dash of onion powder if desired.
- This recipe can be prepared a few hours in advance; keep the assembled platter covered and refrigerated until serving.
- To make it vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
- Adding fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley to the cream cheese can enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Snow pea wreath, holiday appetizer, cream cheese dip, festive appetizer, grape tomatoes, vegetable dip platter, easy appetizer
