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Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated dish with minimal effort. The warm, roasted grapes release their juices, creating a luscious sauce that complements the creamy Camembert. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, and the presentation is as impressive as the taste.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 cups red seedless grapes
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small wheel of Camembert cheese
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Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
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Crusty bread or crackers, for serving
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a baking dish, toss the grapes with olive oil to coat evenly.
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Roast the grapes for about 8 minutes, until they begin to burst and soften.
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Remove the dish from the oven and dot the grapes with pieces of Camembert cheese.
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Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
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Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 as an appetizer. Preparation time is approximately 5 minutes, with a total cooking time of about 10 minutes.
Variations
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Add a drizzle of honey over the roasted grapes before adding the cheese for extra sweetness.
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Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
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Use Brie cheese as an alternative to Camembert for a slightly different taste.
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Incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar with the grapes before roasting for a tangy twist.
Storage/Reheating
This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use green grapes instead of red?
Yes, I can use green grapes, but red grapes tend to be sweeter and provide a better contrast to the savory cheese.
Is it necessary to remove the rind from the Camembert?
No, I don’t need to remove the rind. The rind is edible and adds to the flavor and texture of the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
I can roast the grapes ahead of time, but it’s best to add and melt the cheese just before serving to ensure optimal texture and flavor.
What type of bread pairs well with this dish?
I recommend serving this with a crusty baguette, sourdough slices, or artisan crackers to complement the creamy cheese and sweet grapes.
Can I add herbs or spices to enhance the flavor?
Absolutely, I can add fresh thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of black pepper to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
Conclusion
Roasted Grapes with Camembert is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together the sweetness of roasted grapes and the creamy richness of Camembert cheese. Whether I’m entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please. With minimal ingredients and preparation time, it’s a go-to appetizer that never fails to impress.
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Roasted Grapes with Camembert
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 as an appetizer
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and gooey cheese appetizer that’s both effortless and impressive. Sweet roasted grapes meet rich Camembert for a crowd-pleasing bite served with crusty bread or crackers.
Ingredients
2 cups red seedless grapes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small wheel of Camembert cheese
Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Crusty bread or crackers, for serving
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place grapes in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
Roast grapes for 8 minutes, until softened and beginning to burst.
Remove from oven and dot with pieces of Camembert.
Return to oven for 2 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
Drizzle honey over the grapes before baking for extra sweetness.
Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Brie can be used in place of Camembert for a slightly milder flavor.
A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy twist.
Best served immediately after baking, but can be gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
