This elegant appetizer is a perfect harmony of creamy, smoky, tangy, and herbaceous flavors, delicately arranged on crisp Belgian endive leaves. Endive with Whipped Goat Cheese, Smoked Trout, Pickled Onion and Dill offers a refined presentation and a burst of complex flavor in every bite. Ideal for holiday platters, cocktail parties, or any occasion where sophistication meets simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No cooking required: Quick and easy to assemble with minimal preparation.
- Elegant presentation: Visually stunning and perfect for formal entertaining.
- Flavor balance: Creamy goat cheese, smoky trout, tangy onions, and fresh dill deliver a delightful contrast.
- Light and low-carb: Naturally gluten-free and suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
- Versatile: Can be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Belgian endive, leaves separated and rinsed
- goat cheese, softened
- heavy cream or sour cream
- smoked trout, skin removed and flaked
- red onion, thinly sliced
- apple cider vinegar
- sugar
- salt
- fresh dill sprigs
- freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Directions
Make the Pickled Onions:
- In a small bowl, stir together apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
- Add the thinly sliced red onions and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a few hours for a deeper flavor.
Whip the Goat Cheese:
- In a bowl, combine softened goat cheese with heavy cream or sour cream.
- Using a hand mixer or whisk, whip until smooth, airy, and creamy.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
Assemble the Bites:
- Spoon a small dollop of whipped goat cheese into each endive leaf.
- Top with a few flakes of smoked trout.
- Add a ribbon of pickled onion.
- Garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill.
Serve:
Arrange the filled endive leaves on a platter or wooden board. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 16–20 pieces
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 0 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Citrus twist: Add a hint of lemon zest to the goat cheese for a bright accent.
- Swap the fish: Use smoked salmon or gravlax in place of trout.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle with crushed pistachios or toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
- Herb variation: Replace dill with fresh chives or tarragon for a different aromatic profile.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute with a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
Storage/Reheating
These appetizers are best assembled shortly before serving to maintain the crispness of the endive. However, components can be prepared in advance:
- Pickled onions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Whipped goat cheese: Can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
- Smoked trout and endive: Store separately and assemble just before serving.
Do not freeze or reheat.
FAQs
Can I make this appetizer in advance?
Yes, you can prep all components ahead and assemble just before serving for the freshest presentation.
What does endive taste like?
Endive has a mildly bitter, crisp flavor that pairs beautifully with rich and tangy toppings.
Can I use hot-smoked or cold-smoked trout?
Either works well. Cold-smoked is more delicate, while hot-smoked offers a flakier texture.
How long should I pickle the onions?
At least 30 minutes, but longer (up to a few hours) yields a stronger flavor.
Can I use cream cheese instead of goat cheese?
Yes, for a milder taste. Whip with a little cream to achieve the desired texture.
Is this appetizer suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I keep the endive from browning?
Store in a damp paper towel in the fridge and assemble shortly before serving.
What wine pairs well with this appetizer?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling rosé pairs beautifully.
Can I use vinegar other than apple cider?
Yes, white wine vinegar or rice vinegar are good alternatives with a milder taste.
How many can I serve per guest?
Plan for 2–3 pieces per person as part of an appetizer spread.
Conclusion
Endive with Whipped Goat Cheese, Smoked Trout, Pickled Onion and Dill is a visually elegant and flavorful appetizer that delivers a gourmet experience with minimal effort. Its balance of creaminess, smokiness, tang, and freshness makes it ideal for refined entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a holiday soirée or preparing an intimate dinner party, these delicate bites are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Print
Endive with Whipped Goat Cheese, Smoked Trout, Pickled Onion and Dill
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16–20 pieces
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This elegant Endive with Whipped Goat Cheese, Smoked Trout, Pickled Onion, and Dill appetizer delivers a refined combination of creamy, smoky, tangy, and herbaceous flavors. A perfect low-carb, gluten-free bite for holiday entertaining, cocktail parties, or sophisticated spreads.
Ingredients
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2 heads Belgian endive, leaves separated and rinsed
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4 oz goat cheese, softened
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2 tbsp heavy cream or sour cream
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4 oz smoked trout, skin removed and flaked
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1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
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1 tsp sugar
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1/4 tsp salt
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Fresh dill sprigs for garnish
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Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
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Make Pickled Onions:
In a small bowl, mix vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Add red onion slices and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or chill for a few hours for deeper flavor. -
Whip Goat Cheese:
Combine softened goat cheese with cream or sour cream. Use a whisk or hand mixer to whip until light and fluffy. Season with pepper if desired. -
Assemble the Bites:
Fill each endive leaf with a dollop of whipped goat cheese. Top with flaked smoked trout, a sliver of pickled onion, and a sprig of dill.
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Serve:
Arrange on a serving platter or wooden board. Serve immediately chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
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Pickled onions can be made a day ahead for convenience.
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Substitute smoked salmon for trout if desired.
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Use a piping bag for a more elegant cheese presentation.
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These bites are naturally gluten-free and low in carbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Modern European
Nutrition
- Calories: 80 kcal per piece
