Serengeti Sunset Appetizer (Printable Version)

Vivid layers of dried apricots and smoked gouda create a stunning orange-hued appetizer perfect for any occasion.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit

01 - 12 dried apricots

→ Cheese

02 - 7 oz smoked Gouda cheese, sliced thinly

→ Garnish

03 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
04 - 1 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds
05 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Lay a piece of parchment paper or serving platter on your work surface.
02 - Arrange a horizontal row of dried apricots with slight overlap to form the first band.
03 - Place smoked Gouda slices directly above the apricot band, ensuring edges touch and slightly overlap apricots.
04 - Continue alternating bands of apricots and smoked Gouda, aiming for at least three bands of each to create a vibrant horizon effect.
05 - Gently press each layer to keep the bands aligned and tidy for a striking presentation.
06 - Sprinkle chopped chives, toasted pumpkin seeds, and freshly ground black pepper over the top as desired.
07 - Serve immediately using a sharp knife for clean slices or cocktail picks for effortless serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours in the kitchen when you actually spent fifteen minutes, which is the kind of magic we all need.
  • The smoky sweetness combination is addictive, and somehow feels both elegant and completely unpretentious.
  • There's no cooking involved, so you can make this while chatting with guests or in your pajamas on a Sunday.
02 -
  • The moment you assemble this is the moment to serve it—it doesn't get better sitting around, and the cheese can dry out if left uncovered for too long.
  • Quality matters here more than anywhere else because there are so few ingredients, so find apricots that smell sweet and feel substantial, and don't settle for waxy or overly processed cheese.
03 -
  • Chill your cheese slices for fifteen minutes before assembling if your kitchen is warm, so they hold their shape and don't start softening into the apricots.
  • Use a very sharp knife or a cheese slicer to cut your Gouda, because a dull knife will tear the cheese and mess up your clean lines, which matters more than it should for something this simple.
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