I invited family over for dinner a while back and needed a hearty appetizer to serve. I knew they would want something to munch on while I was getting dinner on the table. Several complicated dishes were on the menu, so serving the meal was going to take a little time.
Sure enough, the first couple of guests arrived 20 minutes early. They couldn’t wait for the munchies to appear. Of course, I had built up their anticipation by sharing descriptions of my latest culinary delights.
Perfectly suited to the occasion, this ensemble hit the spot. My family happily shared stories and enjoyed each other’s company until dinner was served.
Fresh arugula flavors both the cheese and the crackers. Cashews and nutritional yeast add richness, while a garnish of marinated beets and carrots pairs beautifully with the other seasonings.
Arugula Ensemble
Ingredients:
1 cup cashews (soaked overnight)
1/4 cup filtered water
1/2 tbsp. lemon juice
1 tbsp. chopped shallots
1/2 tsp. fresh garlic
1/4 tsp. Himalayan pink salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
2 tbsp. nutritional yeast
1 tbsp. soy lecithin powder
1/4 cup finely chopped arugula
Directions:
Drain and rinse the cashews. Place them in a high speed blender with the water, lemon juice, shallots, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast. Blend until smooth and creamy.
With the blender running on low, gradually add the soy lecithin powder. Blend until fully incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Stir in the arugula until evenly distributed. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
Each serving is 3/4 cup.
Assembly:
This ensemble requires 2 more recipes to complete it. They are the Marinated Beet Garnish recipe and the Arugula Crackers recipe.
Place a cracker on the chopping block. Put a tsp. of Arugula cheese on top of the cracker. Then top with the marinated beets and sprinkle with some pine nuts to place the finishing touch on it. Just assemble as many as needed. The crackers, cheese, and garnish must be stored separately.
The cheese will last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored in an air tight container.
