TEST Recipe Site

Category: Side Dishes

  • Turkey Charcuterie Board

    Turkey Charcuterie Board

    Gobble gobble your way to Thanksgiving dinner with the cutest turkey charcuterie board there ever was! Guests of all ages will love this fun way to enjoy a snack or appetizer full of meat, cheese, crackers, and lots of fruit!

    It’s so fun to have a themed snack board like this turkey charcuterie board in the shape of a turkey for the Thanksgiving holiday. If you’re looking for some more delicious appetizers to take to Thanksgiving dinner, I have you covered! Bring these brussels sprouts, this amazing strawberry pretzel salad, or the best sweet potato casserole.

    Overhead view of a turkey charcuterie board. Pumpkins and fall leaves are garnished around the wood board.

    Turkey Charcuterie Board

    I love a good charcuterie for any party or occasion. This turkey charcuterie board is my favorite thing to bring to Thanksgiving dinner! I love how fun and festive this board looks because it is shaped like a Turkey! Filled with fall colors and delicious cheeses, fruits, and meat… It’s going to catch the attention of each and every one of your guests! For more fun holiday charcuterie boards, try this Christmas charcuterie, this Valentine’s charcuterie, or my favorite Halloween charcuterie.

    The best part about this is that it’s SO simple to make but it looks like a million bucks! I have included the step-by-step instructions to take you through exactly what you need to do to make this for Thanksgiving or any day in the month of November. I love to make the board kid-friendly, but adults love the board just as much! There is no wrong way to make this so get creative and have fun!

    The Recipe Critic Recommendation

    Wood Charcuterie Board

    Belvedere Large Round Acacia Wood Cutting Board

    Circular shape and natural wood color, perfect for entertaining!

    CLICK HERE FOR THE LINK

    First Comes the Fruit!

    The start of your turkey charcuterie board will be the pear used for the turkey’s body. It is SO cute! The key to making this board turn out so festive are the colors from the fruits that you pick! I picked some bold colors to really pop on my board. It’s nice to have some juicy, fresh taste complementing all of the savory meats and cheeses! Here are the fruits that I used, but feel free to use any fruit you like!

    • Pear
    • Blackberries
    • Raspberries
    • Strawberries

    Cheese to Use For a Turkey Charcuterie

    If you love cheese and want to add in some more, feel free to do so! You could try parmesan, provolone, and pepper jack! You can’t go wrong with using more cheese! As I said, feel free to use whatever items that you want on your board! Here is the list of cheeses that I used on this board.

    • Spicy Buffalo Cheddar Cheese Trader Joes
    • Creamy Toscano Cheese Trader Joes

    Meats To Use On a Turkey Charcuterie

    I didn’t load up this board with too many meats because there will be real turkey on the table! But the beauty of these boards is that you can do whatever you want! Kids love when I use pepperoni, and adults love when I use prosciutto.

    • Salami
    • Pepperoni
    • Red Wine Artisan Salami

    Don’t Forget the Nuts, Crackers, and Cookies

    The other ingredients you add to this turkey charcuterie board add to the taste and texture! Because adding in the nuts, crackers, and cookies will set your board apart. I love the mixture of sweet and salty. Here are the nuts, crackers, and cookies that I used, but any kind will work!

    • Whole Almonds
    • Pumpkin Cranberry Crackers (From Trader Joes)
    • Pumpkin Joe Joe’s (From Trader Joes)

    Let’s Assemble it All Together! 

    Now that you’ve gathered all of the ingredients for this board, it’s time for the fun part! To put it together and make this turkey charcuterie board! It’s so pretty and delicious! It will definitely be the star of the party! 

    1. Place the Pear: Cut the whole pear in half, starting at the stem and cutting through to the bottom. Then, place the cut side down near the bottom of the board.
    2. Place the Blackberries: Add the blackberries by placing them around the pear.
    3. Add Salami and Cheese: Following the rainbow shape, assemble your board by adding the salami and cheese.
    4. Arrange the Nuts, Crackers, and Raspberries: Then, add in the nuts, crackers, and raspberries following the board shape.
    5. Add in the Rest of the Ingredients: Fill the board in the rest of the board by following the order in the pictures.
    6. Decorate the Turkey: Cut some cheddar cheese into a triangle for the beak and strips for the feet. Arrange them on the pear so it looks like a turkey!
    A close up view of the pear shaped turkey body. Fruit, salami, cheese, crackers, and nuts surround the turkey body.

    Make it Your Own!

    The best part about this turkey charcuterie board is that you can do whatever you want to make it your own! Here are some more ideas that you could use to make it festive and perfect for your get-together! Everyone is going to LOVE it no matter what you put on it!

    • Use shapes: I love using cookie cutters to make different shapes out of the cheeses! Then, I like to use a small leaf-shaped cookie cutter to cut the cheeses and salami. It really makes the board stand out!
    • Add Veggies: An excellent way to bring in some more flavor and nutrition are to add fresh vegetables. I love using carrots and small bell peppers to add to the fall colors of the board.
    • Make it Kid-Friendly: Sometimes, I’ll make one for the kids and one for the adults. Try adding goldfish, cheez-its, fruit snacks, or marshmallows. These are SO fun to make and then everyone is happy!

    Close overhead view of charcuterie ingredients. Strawberries, salami, cheeses, raspberries, crackers, and almonds are arranged on the board.

    Delicious Pumpkin Desserts

    Since we’re on the topic of Thanksgiving, here are some amazing pumpkin dessert recipes you have to try! Fall means pumpkin EVERYTHING, so here are some of my favorite pumpkin recipes. They are all so delicious!

    Print

    Turkey Charcuterie Board

    Gobble gobble your way to Thanksgiving dinner with the cutest turkey charcuterie board there ever was! Guests of all ages will love this fun way to enjoy a snack or appetizer full of meat, cheese, crackers, and lots of fruit!
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword turkey charcuterie board
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 15
    Calories 11kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Fruits:

    • Pear
    • Blackberries
    • Raspberries
    • Strawberries

    Cheese:

    • Spicy Buffalo Cheddar Cheese Trader Joes
    • Creamy Toscano Cheese Trader Joes

    Nuts:

    • Whole Almonds

    Meats:

    • Salami
    • Pepperoni
    • Red Wine Artisan Salami

    Crackers:

    • Pumpkin Cranberry Crackers Trader Joes

    Cookies:

    • Pumpkin Joe Joe’s Trader Joes

    Instructions

    • Cut the whole pear in half starting at the stem and cutting through to the bottom. Place the cut side down near the bottom of the board.
    • Add the blackberries by placing them around the pear.
    • Add the salami slices around the blackberries, followed by the cheese.
    • Then, add in the nuts, crackers, and raspberries following the same shape of the board.
    • Fill in the rest of the board by following the order of ingredients in the pictures.
    • To decorate the turkey, cut some cheddar cheese into a triangle for the beak, and strips for the feet. Arrange them on the pear so it looks like a real turkey!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 11kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.004g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 0.3mg | Potassium: 42mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 24IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.2mg
  • Easiest Bruschetta Recipe

    Easiest Bruschetta Recipe

    This bruschetta is easy to make with fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese and drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette over top of a French baguette. Bruschetta comes together quickly and easily!

    Bruschetta is always fun to make and tastes delicious! Try a couple more variations of bruschetta recipes like this easy strawberry bruschetta or creamy feta and bacon bruschetta.

    Bruschetta presented on a white plate.

    Easiest Bruschetta Recipe

    Bruschetta is originally from Italy and is a variation of tomatoes, vegetables, beans, cured meat, and cheese. It is mixed together, then rubbed the bread with garlic and brushed over the top of the bread. This bruschetta is one of my favorites during the year. It is light and filling at the same time. Every bite is zesty and flavorful! Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top and you have one amazing appetizer!

    The warm crispy, crunchy bread melts in the shredded mozzarella overtop the tomato mixture. Together this makes the perfect combination! Use up all your fresh tomatoes with this tried and true favorite. This appetizer is perfect for any occasion and great to use as an appetizer, party snack or light lunch. Because it is so light and tasty, everyone will want more!

    Bruschetta Ingredients

    This recipe uses simple ingredients to make a sweet and savory appetizer. Try it out over some delicious bread and then you won’t be able to stop! Check out the bottom of the post for all of the exact ingredient measurements.

    • Baguette: Slice the bread into thin, even slices.
    • Olive Oil: Brush the oil over the top of each slice of bread.
    • Roma Tomatoes: Freshly diced ripe tomatoes.
    • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded cheese lays smoothly over the top of the tomato mixture and softens with the warm bread.
    • Balsamic Vinaigrette: This is a very dark concentrate that is rich in flavor.
    • Olive Oil: The olive oil adds a rich flavor to the tomato mixture
    • Garlic Cloves: It is best fresh and minced. If you don’t have any fresh garlic cloves then you can use minced garlic from a jar. 1 garlic clove equals about ½ teaspoon of minced garlic.
    • Basil: Fresh basil is thrown in for color and flavor!
    • Salt and Pepper: These will enhance all of the flavors in the bruschetta.
    • Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle overtop the tomato mixture for a garnish and glaze.

    How to Create the Perfect Bruschetta

    This recipe is simple to make yet it packs a punch in looks and flavor. Your friends and family will ask you for the recipe because it’s so delicious!

    1. Prepare Bread: Slice a baguette and line it on a baking sheet. Then, brush the top with olive oil and broil it 2-3 minutes until brown. When it’s brown then you can remove from the oven.
    2. Mix Together: In a medium-sized bowl combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, balsamic, olive oil, garlic, basil and salt and pepper. 
    3. Top the Bread: Add the mixture to the top of the bread and then drizzle it with balsamic glaze.
    The process of making bruschetta in three photos starting with the brushing on the bread then making the tomato mixture and add it onto of each bread.

    Tips and Variations

    There are a few things that you can do to make sure that your bruschetta turns out perfectly! Here are a few tips to help you out.

    • Fresh: It is best to try using the freshest ingredients for the tomato mixture. Since fresh produce doesn’t last long then purchase it a day or so before to plan on making this appetizer.
    • Toasting Bread: Move your oven rack a few inches below the top of the oven. Then, broil the bread for a few minutes.
    • Cheese: Store-bought pre-shredded cheese has an extra coat of flour overtop, which is hard to blend together. I like to purchase a block of cheese and then shred it myself.
    • Add In: Try adding in nuts or sunflower seeds to add in a delicious taste and texture!

    Bruschetta toast on a white countertop garnished with cilantro.

    What Kind of Bread Should I Serve With It?

    Several slices of bread are best for bruschetta. A classic one is always the baguette. It is crunchy outside a soft and sweet inside. I also love using French bread or crostini. Even crackers or chips taste delicious with this classic and traditional bruschetta.

    How Long Does Fresh Bruschetta Keep?

    • Making Ahead: It is best to serve this right away but knowing to have it ready ahead of time will also work. Bruschetta can keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days. Stir it up when you are ready to eat it, and then top it on the toasted bread.
    • Leftovers: If you have any leftover bruschetta, then try adding it on top of baked or grilled chicken!

    More Delicious Appetizer Recipes

    I love trying out new appetizers! There are so many different things that you can make so there is always something for everyone! Try out some more of my favorite appetizers that can be made for any occasion!

    Print

    Easiest Bruschetta Recipe

    This bruschetta is easy to make with fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese and drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette over top of a French baguette. Bruschetta comes together quickly and easily! 
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine French
    Keyword bruschetta, bruschetta recipes
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes
    Servings 12 Slices
    Calories 85kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 Baguette
    • Olive Oil
    • 5 Roma Tomatoes diced
    • 1/4 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded
    • 1 tbs Balsamic Vinaigrette
    • 1 tbs Olive Oil
    • 2 Garlic Cloves minced
    • 1/4 cup Basil ribboned
    • Salt and Pepper to taste
    • Balsamic Glaze

    Instructions

    • Slice a baguette and line it on a baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil and broil it 2-3 minutes until brown. Remove from the oven.
    • In a medium sized bowl combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, balsamic, olive oil, garlic, basil and salt and pepper. Top the bread with the mixture and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

    Notes

    Originally Posted on May 24, 2020

    Updated on November 3, 2022

    Nutrition

    Calories: 85kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 144mg | Potassium: 84mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 257IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Dinner Roll Wreath

    Dinner Roll Wreath

    This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my privacy policy.

    Easy, delicious, and adorably festive, this Dinner Roll Wreath is perfect for holiday dinners! Warm and soft rolls arranged to look like a wreath are sure to spruce up your holiday dinner table.

    Bread is one of my favorite things to make. It is so satisfying to watch the dough rise, and come out of the oven golden and delicious. It also makes the house smell like a dream! If you love making bread or want to give it a try, you’ve got to try this Cinnamon Bread, or this perfect for fall Apple Bread, or one of my favorites, this Amish Friendship Bread.

    Dinner rolls arranged like a wreath with cranberries on top and rosemary sprigs to the side and red sparkly ornaments.

    Dinner Roll Wreath

    This just might be your new Christmas dinner tradition! It’s so simple to make and it turns out absolutely stunning. It’s easy to make ahead of time so that it’s ready for the big day. Not to mention how gorgeous it looks as a centerpiece for your table. It’s not a complicated recipe either. You don’t need to be a pro at making bread for these rolls to turn out perfectly soft, fluffy, and delicious.

    I love Christmas dinner, fit with a juicy Apricot Glazed Ham and tons of sides (mashed potatoes always make an appearance). If you are getting tired of repeats, or just want to start a new tradition this is the recipe for you. This dinner roll wreath saved my table and my holiday spirit. It is so fun to make and each year you can garnish or flavor it differently. This recipe will never get tired!

    Ingredients

    I bet you already have all of these recipes in your pantry! Well, you might have to go out and get some yeast if you aren’t a frequent bread maker. But other than that, you’ve got everything you need to make a new holiday tradition! For exact measurements, see the recipe card below.

    • All-Purpose Flour: It’s the easiest to work with for this recipe.
    • Granulated Sugar: A little sugar helps the bread to rise better and gives it a nice flavor.
    • Rapid Rise Yeast: You want to get rapid rise because we are only doing one rise for this recipe.
    • Salt: A little salt brings out all the great flavors in this bread.
    • Milk: Your milk should be warm, which means between 110 and 120 degrees. It should be warm to the touch but not hot.
    • Butter: You will want to use unsalted butter.
    • Italian Seasoning: This blend makes a great savory flavor in the bread.
    • Fresh Rosemary: This is for garnish around the rolls. It looks like a pine tree branch so it’s perfect for the season.
    • Fresh Cranberries or Pomegranate Seeds: These add a great pop of color, and awesome flavor too. Something red on your wreath is a must!
    Process photos showing ingredients being added to a stand mixer, the dough formed in the mixer, the dough divided into rolls on a counter top, and finally the dough shaped into a wreath with a glass bowl in the center.

    Dinner Roll Wreath Recipe

    If you haven’t made bread before, don’t be intimidated! You can totally make this dinner roll wreath, and I’ve written out each step with lots of details so that it will be easy to follow. You will be so happy with how it turns out!

    Make the Dough

    1. Prep Baking Station: Set the oven to warm, or as low as it will go if you don’t have a warm option (about 170℉). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray a small glass (oven-safe) bowl or storage dish with cooking spray and place upside down in the center of the baking sheet. Set aside.
    2. Mix Dough: In the bowl of a mixer, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast and salt. In another bowl, combine the warm milk and 6 tablespoons of melted butter.
    3. Knead: Using the dough hook attachment on low, slowly add the liquid to the dry ingredients. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is still very sticky and sticks to your fingers, add more flour 1-2 tablespoons at a time.
    4. Rest: Once you have achieved smooth dough, cover the bowl and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
    5. Divide Dough: Once the dough has rested, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide the dough into four even sections. Divide each section into 6 smaller, even sections so you have a total of 24. If you would like a precise weight, use a kitchen scale to measure your dough’s weight in grams before dividing it. Divide that number by 24 and then weigh 24 individual balls of dough with that weight.

    Shape, Let Rise, and Bake

    1. Shape: Shape each section of dough into a small ball and pinch the dough together at the bottom. Place 10 of the balls around the glass bowl to form the inner ring of the wreath. Use the remaining 14 balls to form the outer ring.
    2. Let Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen cloth and set in the warm oven to rise until doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes. I find it helpful to use a clean spray bottle to spray the sides and bottom of my oven with water to create steam. This will help accelerate the rising time.
    3. Bake: Remove the rolls from the oven once they have doubled in size and bump the oven temperature up to 375℉. Gently brush the rolls with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. As soon as the oven has reached 375℉, place the rolls back in the oven and bake for 16-18 minutes, until the tops are a deep golden brown.
    4. Cool and Garnish: Let the rolls cool before gently removing the glass bowl from the center. Serve on a large platter and garnish with sprigs of fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds. If desired, add a bowl of your favorite spread or dip right in the center!

    How to Make Dinner Roll Wreath by Hand

    If you don’t have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can still make this recipe! And it will take you about the same amount of time. I personally love making bread by hand because it feels like art. Here are some tips to adapt this recipe.

    • Get a Large Bowl: Instead of putting your dough ingredients in the mixer, put them in a large bowl. Use a hand whisk for the first step and then use a wooden spoon when you start adding wet ingredients.
    • Knead on the Counter: You will take the dough out of the bowl to knead it on a lightly floured surface. You will knead for 5-10 minutes. Your hands will help develop the gluten and warm the dough so it will combine quickly. If the dough is still really sticky and unmanageable, knead in 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until it is the right consistency.

    A close up of dinner roll wreath with a hand grabbing one of the rolls.

    Tips for Making a Dinner Roll Wreath

    Here are some simple tips to make the most out of this recipe!

    • Watch Temperatures: You’ve got to make sure the temperature of your milk isn’t too high when adding it to your yeast mixture. The sweet spot is about 100-110 degrees Fahrenheit. If you add liquids that are too hot, they will kill your yeast and you’ll have to start the whole process over.
    • Moisture Helps Rising Process: To create the best rising environment for your rolls, set the oven to “warm”, or 170℉, and place the covered rolls in the warmed oven. Use a clean spray bottle to spray water on the bottom and sides of the oven, shutting the door quickly to trap in the steam. This will help accelerate the rising process. You may need to check on the rolls sooner than the recipe suggests since it can speed things up significantly. Be sure to remove the rolls from the oven before increasing the temperature for baking.
    • Use Oven-Safe Glass Bowl: Be sure the bowl you use in the center of your rolls is oven safe. If you don’t have an oven-safe bowl, simply remove the bowl after the rolls have risen and bake without one. The center circle may shrink just a little, but it will still maintain a wreath shape!
    • Experiment with Decor: Dress the roll wreath up with fresh herbs, fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds, or even make a decorative bow out of holiday ribbon! You could also use additional herbs like parsley or thyme.

    Two hands ripping open a dinner roll with the full dinner roll wreath in the background.

    Storing Leftovers

    This Dinner Roll Wreath is great for making ahead of time because it stays good for 5 days. For the best tasting rolls on the big day, make them no more than 24 hours ahead of time.

    On the Counter: Cover your rolls with plastic wrap or put them in an airtight container and leave them on your counter. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. They dry out a little bit every day, so it’s best to eat them fresh!

    Other Holiday Recipes

    If you’re excited about trying new recipes for this holiday season, I’ve got so many to share with you! All of them are tried and true recipes that my family loves, and I know yours will too. I am a huge fan of saving time and making things simple in the kitchen, so all of these recipes will quickly become favorites!

    • Set the oven to warm, or as low as it will go if you don’t have a warm option (about 170℉). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray a small glass (oven-safe) bowl or storage dish with cooking spray and place upside down in the center of the baking sheet. Set aside.

    • In the bowl of a mixer, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast and salt. In another bowl, combine the warm milk and 6 tablespoons of melted butter.

    • Using the dough hook attachment on low, slowly add the liquid to the dry ingredients. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is still very sticky and sticks to your fingers, add more flour 1-2 tablespoons at a time.

    • Once you have achieved smooth dough, cover the bowl and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

    • Once the dough has rested, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide the dough into four even sections. Divide each section into 6 smaller, even sections so you have a total of 24. If you would like a precise weight, use a kitchen scale to measure your dough’s weight in grams before dividing it. Divide that number by 24 and then weigh 24 individual balls of dough with that weight.

    • Shape each section of dough into a small ball and pinch the dough together at the bottom. Place 10 of the balls around the glass bowl to form the inner ring of the wreath. Use the remaining 14 balls to form the outer ring.

    • Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen cloth and set in the warm oven to rise until doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes. I find it helpful to use a clean spray bottle to spray the sides and bottom of my oven with water to create steam. This will help accelerate the rising time.

    • Remove the rolls from the oven once they have doubled in size and bump the oven temperature up to 375℉. Gently brush the rolls with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. As soon as the oven has reached 375℉, place the rolls back in the oven and bake for 16-18 minutes, until the tops are a deep golden brown.

    • Let the rolls cool before gently removing the glass bowl from the center. Serve on a large platter and garnish with sprigs of fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds. If desired, add a bowl of your favorite spread or dip right in the center!

    Serves: 24

    Calories159kcal (8%)Carbohydrates24g (8%)Protein4g (8%)Fat5g (8%)Saturated Fat3g (15%)Polyunsaturated Fat0.3gMonounsaturated Fat1gTrans Fat0.2gCholesterol13mg (4%)Sodium226mg (9%)Potassium61mg (2%)Fiber1g (4%)Sugar3g (3%)Vitamin A161IU (3%)Vitamin C0.002mgCalcium28mg (3%)Iron1mg (6%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Bread

    Cuisine American

    Keyword Dinner Roll Wreath, dinner rolls, holidays

  • Fruit Charcuterie Board

    Fruit Charcuterie Board

    You will love the vibrant colors of all your favorite fruits beautifully displayed together on a fruit charcuterie board. Serve this as a perfect side dish or dessert alongside a creamy fruit dip at your next party!

    I love serving this show-stopping fruit charcuterie with any meal, but my favorite way to serve it is with breakfast. The fresh juicy fruit is always a crowd-pleaser in the morning for guests. It would be perfect alongside this breakfast casserole, these easy cinnamon rolls, and a side of bacon.

    Overhead view of the fruit charcuterie board. A tan kitchen towel and extra fruit is scattered around the board.

    What is a Fruit Charcuterie Board?

    I love a good charcuterie board because it visually draws in your guests! It’s the best mixture of sweet ripe fruit. Every bite is a different fruit, and every bite is sweet and juicy! The best fresh fruit charcuterie boards are made with fruit that is in season.

    Everyone loves charcuterie boards because they are bursting with so many different tastes and textures! There are endless possibilities, from citrus to berries to tropical fruits like pineapple and papaya. Any type of fruit you can get your hands on will work, be creative as you want. Serve your fruit charcuterie board with this fluffy fruit dip, this strawberry dip, or this incredible cheesecake dip.

    Fruit Ideas For Your Charcuterie Board

    Everyone LOVES this fruit charcuterie board! Feel free to use as many fresh fruits as you would like.  Here is a large list of ideas that you can choose from for your board. Your guests will keep coming back to the delicious fruit board because of all the perfectly ripe and tasty fruits!

    • Pineapple: Sliced in half and the rest cut into chunks.
    • Green and Red Grapes: I like to leave some whole and some still on the vine.
    • Mango: Cut into chunks or slice it up!
    • Blueberries: Left whole with stems removed.
    • Raspberries: Left whole with stems removed.
    • Kiwi: I love to cut kiwis in fun shapes!
    • Blackberries: Left whole with stems removed.
    • Strawberries: I like to serve some whole and some halved or sliced.
    • Star Fruit: The shape is perfect for fruit charcuterie boards.
    • Kumquat: The tart and sour flavor of the kumquat is fun to add to the sweet fruit.
    • Pink Dragonfruit: The prettiest color of fruit there ever was!
    • Oranges: Sliced or cut into wedges.
    • Fruit Dip: I love my fruit dip, but feel free to use yogurt or whipped cream.

    The Recipe Critic Recommendation

    Wood Charcuterie Board

    Belvedere Large Round Acacia Wood Cutting Board

    Circular shape and natural wood color, perfect for entertaining!

    CLICK HERE FOR THE LINK

    Let’s Make the Best Fruit Appetizer

    Making this simple fruit charcuterie board is so fun and easy! I like to display the fruit using different shapes and sizes to make it visually beautiful. Everyone loves the pineapple leaves left on it because it adds interest and texture. This board will be the star of our next party or get-together!

    1. Slice and Place the Pineapple: Slice a pineapple in half and scoop out the center. Set on a large round wood board or platter.
    2. Wash and Prepare the Fruit: Wash and dry the fruit, then slice, peel, or cut the fruit into desired shapes.
    3. Arrange the Fruit: Arrange the fruit around the pineapple and fill the pineapple with some fruit. Display the fruit in colorful sections and distribute it throughout the board. 
    4. Prepare the Dip: Make the fruit dip by following the linked recipe, then spoon it into a pretty bowl. I sprinkled it with cinnamon to make it even prettier. Place it onto the board and enjoy dipping!
    Close overhead view of the kiwi, pineapple, berries, starfruit, orange slices, and fruit dip on the charcuterie board.

    Charcuterie Board Variations

    The best part about making a fresh fruit charcuterie board is that there are so many different fruits to use! It’s fun to get creative because you can use any fruit you have access to. Here are a few ideas about how you can change it up to make it your own! 

    • Serve With Any Meal: Fruit charcuterie boards can be used for any occasion or meal. Make it a dessert by serving it with melted chocolate or chocolate fondue. I also love to add granola and yogurt to the fruit board and serve it at brunch.
    • Make It Festive For Any Occasion: You can make one for a holiday as I did with this Christmas wreath charcuterie! Simply arrange your fruit in a wreath shape and add some leaves and ornaments to make it festive. You can also scatter pomegranate seeds or cranberries for the holidays.
    • Shapes and Colors: When making a fruit charcuterie board, use a lot of different shapes, colors, and textures! Cut your fruit into shapes, or hollow out large melons or fruits to use as a bowl. You can see I did just that with the pineapple, but watermelon is also fun to use.
    • More Dip Ideas: Use yogurt or whipped cream for more dipping options.
    • Add Cheese Or Nuts: It’s fun to add cheeses and nuts to the board because it pairs so well with fruit.

    Close overhead view of the grapes, kumquat, dragonfruit, berries, pineapple, and orange slices on the charcuterie board.

    Storing Fruit

    This fruit charcuterie board is easy to prep the day before your event. Most fruits can be sliced, covered, and stored separately in the fridge up to 24 hours in advance.  Cut fruits like bananas and apples right before serving because they brown quickly.

    • In the Refrigerator: If you have any leftover fruit and dip, cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can make the dip a couple of days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give the fruit dip a stir before serving.

    Close overhead view of the sliced whole pineapple filled with pineapple chunks and berries. The rest of the fruit is scattered around the pineapple with fruit dip on the side.

    Charcuterie Boards For Holidays

    If you love this fruit charcuterie for summertime, you’ll love making them for every season.  It’s so fun to make charcuterie boards year round and for every holiday.  I have you covered for your next holiday party!

    Print

    Fruit Charcuterie

    You will love the vibrant colors of all your favorite fruits beautifully displayed together on a fruit charcuterie board. Serve this as a perfect side dish or dessert at your next party alongside a creamy fruit dip! 
    Course Appetizer, Dessert, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword fruit charcuterie, Fruit Charcuterie Board
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes
    Servings 20
    Calories 78kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Fruit:

    • Pineapple
    • Green and Red Grapes
    • Mango
    • Blueberries
    • Raspberries
    • Kiwi
    • Blackberries
    • Strawberries
    • Star Fruit
    • Kumquat
    • Pink Dragonfruit
    • Oranges
    • Fruit Dip

    Instructions

    • Slice a pineapple in half and scoop out the center. Set on a large round wood board or platter.
    • Wash and dry the fruit, then slice, peel, or cut the fruit in desired shapes.
    • Arrange the fruit around the pineapple and fill the pineapple with some fruit. Display the fruit in colorful sections and distribute it throughout the board.
    • Make the fruit dip by following the linked recipe, and spoon it into a pretty bowl. I sprinkled it with cinnamon to make it even prettier. Place it onto the board and enjoy for dipping!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cup | Calories: 78kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 15mg | Potassium: 192mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 194IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Tomato Basil Soup

    Tomato Basil Soup

    This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my privacy policy.

    Tomato basil soup is a healthy classic that’s simple to make from scratch and full of flavor! It only takes just over half an hour. The whole family will enjoy it as the temperatures drop and the evenings become crisper.

    It’s soup season! You may also like these yummy soups: Creamy Pumpkin Soup, Classic Italian Wedding Soup, Vegetable Detox Soup, or this Easy Cauliflower Soup.

    Top-down view of tomato basil soup, drizzled with cream and served with bread.

    Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

    I hope you’re all enjoying the fall weather! Even though I’m a warm weather girl at heart, I can’t resist soup season. Soups are some of my favorite things to make, and I know you’ll love this easy tomato soup recipe! Tomato soup has always been one of my favorites. Basil and a splash of cream take it to the next level of yumminess!

    We are well into fall now, but I can eat tomato soup all year. It’s such a classic! I always keep some fresh basil plants during the warmer months, and this soup is perfect for using it up if you have some. It adds the most amazing flavor and aroma! Really though, this is going to be some of the best soup you make this season. Pair your tomato basil soup with a grilled cheese for dipping and you have a winning combo on your hands.

    All Ingredients Needed

    The great thing about this tomato soup recipe is that is has such a short ingredient list. The one thing you want to make sure you don’t substitute are the San Marzano tomatoes! They give this soup the best flavor ever. Note: If you are looking for exact measurements, they can all be found in the recipe card below.

    • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing your onions in.
    • Butter: Adds rich, delicious flavor!
    • Onion: I love adding chopped onion because it will give your whole pot of soup the best savory taste.
    • Minced Garlic: You can never go wrong with garlic. Add some in for an extra pop of savory flavor and aromatics!
    • Italian Seasoning: Add a dash of Italian seasoning for another layer of flavor.
    • San Marzano Tomatoes: These are a high quality type of canned tomato that will make all the difference in the way your soup tastes!
    • Chicken Broth: Adjusts the consistency of the soup and also adds flavor. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
    • Heavy Cream: Makes your tomato basil soup extra creamy! You can also add a drizzle on top for a pretty garnish.
    • Fresh Basil: Fresh basil really takes the flavor of this soup to the next level. Because it can be tricky to find in the winter months, you can substitute it with dried basil. See my tips section below for more information and how much to use!
    • Salt & Pepper: Add to taste.

    What are San Marzano Tomatoes?

    San Marzano tomatoes are known as some of the best quality/tasting canned tomatoes available. They’re a variety of plum tomatoes that are grown in the San Marzano region of Italy, and various brands sell them (you should be able to find them fairly easily in most grocery stores).

    4-photo collage of tomato soup being prepared.

    How to Make Tomato Basil Soup

    Tomato basil soup is one of my favorite recipes for chilly days because it’s so easy to whip up! It’s such a delicious lunch and especially good served with bread (or a grilled cheese!) for dipping.

    1. Sauté Onions: Add the oil, butter, and onion to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes or until it’s lightly browned.
    2. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning, followed by the tomatoes and chicken broth. 
    3. Cook: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 8 minutes, covered, with the lid slightly ajar. 
    4. Blend and Garnish: Blend the soup (I like to use an immersion blender) until it’s smooth (you may want to let it cool a little bit first). Stir in the cream and basil and season with salt & pepper as needed.
    Top-down view of tomato basil soup in a blue pot, garnished with herbs and a dollop of cream.

    Tips and Serving Suggestions

    Whether you’re wanting to use dried basil or need some ideas on what to serve your soup with, I’ve got you covered! Here’s how to make your tomato basil soup extra tasty!

    • Can I Use Dried Basil? I recommend fresh for this soup if you can get your hands on it, but the rule is that 2 teaspoons of fresh basil = about 1 teaspoon of dried basil. I’d start with 1 teaspoon, taste the soup, and then add more if necessary.
    • Adjust Flavor: If you find the soup is a little too tart for your liking, add a little bit of sugar (it’s an old trick). Start with ½ teaspoon.
    • Serve With:  You can’t go wrong with some crusty bread (sourdough or French bread are my favorites), or try these Grilled Cheese Pull Aparts! A normal grilled cheese sandwich is delicious as well. Some fresh parmesan cheese grated over top would also taste heavenly.

    Closeup of a ladle filled with soup. There is a piece of basil in the ladle.

    How Long Does Homemade Tomato Soup Last?

    Here’s how to store your tomato basil soup so you can enjoy it for a tasty lunch throughout the week! I love it because it’s so easy to heat up and serve.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
    • In the Freezer: Store in a freezer bag for 4-6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

    Two black bowls filled with soup.

    Love Tomatoes? Try These Other Recipes!

    Tomatoes are so hearty, flavorful, and versatile! Here are just a few of my many favorite dishes to use them in. You can find my full list of tomato recipes here.

    • Add the oil, butter, and onion to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes or until it’s lightly browned.

    • Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning, followed by the tomatoes and chicken broth.

    • Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 8 minutes, covered, with the lid slightly ajar.

    • Blend the soup (I like to use an immersion blender) until it’s smooth (you may want to let it cool a little bit first). Stir in the cream and basil and season with salt & pepper as needed.

    • I recommend using the canned whole San Marzano tomatoes (it’s a variety of tomatoes available from different brands). They’re great for cooking with and have wonderful flavor.

    Serves: 6

    Calories134kcal (7%)Carbohydrates3g (1%)Protein1g (2%)Fat13g (20%)Saturated Fat7g (35%)Cholesterol37mg (12%)Sodium277mg (12%)Potassium42mg (1%)Fiber1g (4%)Sugar1g (1%)Vitamin A586IU (12%)Vitamin C2mg (2%)Calcium22mg (2%)Iron1mg (6%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Dinner, Main Course

    Cuisine American

    Keyword Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

  • Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread

    Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread

    This garlic parmesan pull-apart bread is soft, flavorful, and beyond easy to make! It’s filled with cheesy garlic flavor and is just the perfect size for dipping in all of your favorite sauces!

    Name a better duo than garlic and parmesan. I’ll wait. It just goes so well with so many different types of dishes! If you love this flavor combo as much as I do, you’ll have to try out these garlic parmesan chicken wings, zucchini spears, or roasted potatoes next. They’re all so irresistible!

    A piece of garlic pull-apart bread being picked up.

    Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Rolls

    This garlic parmesan pull-apart bread is one of my family’s all-time favorite sides. My kids are always requesting it! It’s soft, warm, cheesy, and has the best savory flavor. It tastes heavenly served up with some homemade marinara or alfredo sauce for dipping! However, the best part about this recipe is the fact that you only need a can of Grands biscuits and a couple other simple ingredients to whip it up. It really doesn’t get any easier than this!

    Garlic parmesan pull-apart bread makes dinner a breeze. I love that all I have to do is mix all of the ingredients together and then throw them in the oven! These rolls are the perfect side. They’re great paired with anything from pizza to pasta or just served as an appetizer! My family loves having them around to munch on for game days. I know they’ll be just as much of a hit at your house! You just really can’t go wrong with warm bread smothered in butter, cheese, and garlic.

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    Even though this garlic parmesan pull-apart bread uses Grands biscuits, it tastes homemade! I love that you only need a few simple ingredients to throw it together. It’s an inexpensive side that the whole family will go crazy over! Check out the recipe card below for exact measurements.

    • Grands Biscuits: I love working with Grands biscuits! They’re so versatile! I just used the regular kind here, not the flaky layers.
    • Butter: Adds flavor and helps your pull-apart bread turn out perfectly golden brown!
    • Garlic: I always like to go for fresh minced garlic with these rolls, but garlic powder will work too if you don’t have any on hand.
    • Parmesan Cheese: I love adding grated parmesan because it gives the tops of the rolls that delicious baked cheese effect. The flavor pairs perfectly with garlic, too!
    • Italian Seasoning: You can’t go wrong by adding some savory herbs! Use prepackaged Italian seasoning or make your own blend. You can find my full recipe here!

    How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread

    It’s so easy, anyone can do it! All you have to do is combine all of the ingredients and then bake! You’re going to be so amazed when you pull golden brown, cheesy goodness out of the oven.

    1. Preheat Oven, Melt Butter: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Throw the cold stick of butter in a bundt pan and let it melt in the preheating oven.
    2. Add Seasonings: While the butter melts, cut the Grands biscuits into quarters. In a bowl, toss the biscuit pieces, garlic, Italian Seasoning, and Parmesan cheese together.
    3. Combine: Once the butter is melted, add the biscuit mixture, sprinkling with any cheese and garlic that gets let behind in the bowl.
    4. Bake and Enjoy: Bake at 350 degrees for 20- 22 minutes until golden brown. Turn out on a dish and enjoy!
    4-photo collage of Grands biscuits being seasoned with parmesan cheese and herbs.

    Tasty Dipping Sauces

    This garlic parmesan pull-apart bread is absolutely delicious on its own, but even better served with tasty dips! These are a few of my family’s favorite dips. We can’t have breadsticks in my house without them! Whether you want some classic marinara, something garlicky, or packed with cheesy flavor, there’s a dip for every craving! Make some of these homemade sauces for your next pizza or pasta night! Your family is going to love them.

    What to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread With

    I always like to have these rolls with Italian-inspired dishes. They’re great for serving alongside pizza, pasta, or soup! Need dinner inspo? Try serving this pull-apart bread with this slow cooker Pasta e Fagioli, creamy bacon carbonara, or just some classic spaghetti! Any saucy pasta is great for dipping them in! Find more yummy Italian dishes here.

    Top-down view of baked rolls in a bundt pan.

    Storing Leftovers

    This delicious cheesy bread never lasts long at my house. In fact, I don’t think we’ve ever had leftovers! They’re always gone in a snap. If you’re lucky enough to have some left over, here’s how to keep them tasting fresh and delicious for a few days!

    • At Room Temperature: You’ll want to keep this garlic parmesan pull-apart bread covered so it doesn’t dry out as quickly. Wrap in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay good for 2 days.

    Closeup of garlic parmesan pull-apart bread.

    More Tasty Sides

    Serving bread or breadsticks with dinner is always a good idea. Here are a few of my favorite recipes to up-level the usual dinner roll. Your guests are going to love them! They’re the perfect addition to any hearty meal. Find more homemade roll recipes here.

    Print

    Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread

    This garlic parmesan pull-apart bread is soft, flavorful, and beyond easy to make! It's filled with cheesy garlic flavor and is just the perfect size for dipping in all of your favorite sauces!
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American, Italian American
    Keyword garlic parmesan pull apart bread recipe, garlic parmesan rolls
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 20 minutes
    Total Time 35 minutes
    Servings 8 Servings
    Calories 291kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Ingredients:

    • 1 can refrigerated Grands biscuits not the flaky layers
    • 1/2 stick butter
    • 3 cloves of garlic minced
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Throw the cold stick of butter in a bundt pan and let it melt in the preheating oven.
    • While the butter melts, cut the Grands biscuits into quarters. In a bowl, toss the biscuit pieces, garlic, Italian Seasoning, and Parmesan cheese together.
    • Once the butter is melted, add the biscuit mixture, sprinkling with any cheese and garlic that gets let behind in the bowl.
    • Bake at 350 degrees for 20- 22 minutes until golden brown. Turn out on a dish and enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 291kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 690mg | Potassium: 142mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 231IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 105mg | Iron: 2mg
  • Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

    Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

    These Instant Pot mashed potatoes are an easy side dish for any holiday or weeknight dinner! They are creamy and flavorful and come together in just 15 minutes.

    Potatoes are the bread and butter of any hearty meal. I love them in every form! A few more quick and recipes you need to add to the dinner lineup are these garlic butter hasselback potatoes, duchess potatoes, and classic scalloped potatoes!

    Mashed potatoes in an Instant Pot, seasoned with herbs.

    Mashed Potatoes in the Instant Pot

    Making mashed potatoes can sometimes be a bit of a hassle. First peeling potatoes, then chopping, boiling, draining, mashing and seasoning. (You’ll have to try my dad’s famous mashed potatoes if you have the extra time.) If you want to cut down on prep time but don’t want to compromise on flavor, these Instant Pot mashed potatoes are the answer. You’re going to love them because they’re so easy and delicious!

    Being a busy mom, I’ll admit I sometimes have a problem remembering that I have to make dinner some nights. Both my Instant Pot and air fryer are a life-saver! I love that I can make hearty, delicious meals for my family in a pinch. I think that’s why I love this recipe so much. Now mashed potatoes don’t have to be reserved for the holidays! You can easily make them for weeknight dinners because all it takes are a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes!

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    These Instant Pot mashed potatoes are perfect for Thanksgiving coming up because they’ll free up space on the stove and are totally hands-off. This way, you can actually enjoy your holiday dinner with your guests! Also, you only need a few simple things to make them. That’s what makes this recipe the best! Note: exact measurements can all be found in the recipe card below.

    • Potatoes: I used red potatoes, but you can definitely try out other types here! Yukon or Russet potatoes are both great options because they’re so nice and buttery!
    • Chicken Broth: I used low-sodium chicken broth because it adds extra flavor to these mashed potatoes and makes them nice and smooth.
    • Butter: Butter is a must for rich, creamy potatoes!
    • Kosher Salt: I always go for kosher salt over table salt because it’s not as bitter.
    • Italian Seasoning: If you’ve never tried adding herbs to your mashed potatoes, here’s your sign to! I love it because it adds extra flavor!
    • Garlic Powder: You can’t go wrong with garlic. Add some in for the best savory flavor!
    • Salt and Pepper: Add to taste!

    How to Make Mashed Potatoes in an Instant Pot

    Give your potatoes a quick chop, throw them into the pot with some chicken broth, pressure cook for 10 minutes, and mash. No draining necessary! This recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

    1. Add Potatoes to Instant Pot: Add the potatoes to the Instant Pot. (No need for a trivet!) Pour the chicken broth on top.
    2. Cook: Put the lid on, turn the valve to sealing, and set to Manual, high pressure, for 10 minutes. It will take about 5-10 minutes to come to pressure and start counting down.
    3. Release Pressure: When the cook time is over, turn the Instant Pot off and let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes and then open the valve to release remaining pressure.
    4. Mix In Remaining Ingredients: Next, add butter, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper. Mash everything together until smooth. Season to taste!
    4-photo collage of chopped potatoes being added to an Instant Pot with chicken broth and various seasonings. They are then mashed until smooth.

    Tips and Variations

    Here are a couple ways you can customize and perfect these Instant Pot mashed potatoes! I know you’re going to love them as much as I do.

    • Skip Peeling Your Potatoes: I don’t ever peel my potatoes because the skin packs in so many nutrients! The potatoes are so tender once the cook time is up. The skin easily mashes in and you hardly even notice it. It’s great because it cuts down on prep time even more!
    • Extra Mix-Ins: The chicken broth adds incredible flavor, but you can add whatever you like to season them after cooking! A little salt and pepper and butter is delicious and great for keeping things simple. Want to jazz things up a bit? Add in some browned butter or flavored cream cheese. Anything goes! Some of my go-tos are seasoning salt or Cajun seasoning for an extra boost of flavor.

    Closeup of Instant Pot mashed potatoes.

    Storing Leftovers

    Leftover mashed potatoes are the best! They’re great with leftover gravy or honestly just heated up on their own. I’m such a potato-lover, finding leftover mashed potatoes in the fridge is one of my favorite things!

    Mashed potatoes served in a brown bowl. There is a silver spoon in the bowl of potatoes.

    More Delicious Potato Sides

    Here are a few more potato side dishes that will complete any meal! They’re buttery, hearty, and filled with so much mouthwatering flavor! They’re perfect for the holidays and weeknight dinners as well. Find more tasty potato side dishes here!

    Print

    Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

    These Instant Pot mashed potatoes are an easy side dish for any holiday or weeknight dinner! They are creamy and flavorful and come together in just 15 minutes.
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword instant pot, Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes, instant pot mashed potatoes recipe, Mashed Potatoes
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 6 Servings
    Calories 142kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 5 pounds red potatoes, cut into 1.5" pieces
    • 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium
    • 1/3 cup butter
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
    • additional salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions

    • Add the potatoes to the Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker (no need for a trivet!) Pour the chicken broth on top of the potatoes.
    • Put the lid on, turn the valve to sealing, and set to Manual, high pressure, for 10 minutes. It will take about 5-10 minutes to come to pressure and start counting down.
    • When the cook time is over, turn the Instant Pot off and let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes and then open the valve to release remaining pressure.
    • Add butter, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper. Mash all of the ingredients together until smooth. Season to taste!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 142kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 398mg | Potassium: 719mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 127IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg
  • The Very Best Butter Board

    The Very Best Butter Board

    A butter board is the latest trend that you absolutely MUST TRY for your next gathering! This board is packed with the most delicious butter that is drizzled with honey and lemon zest and adds the perfect touch to your favorite bread!

    I love a delicious appetizer board with so many different food options, and a charcuterie board does precisely that! You need to try my Fall Charcuterie Board, this delicious Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board, or my Simple Charcuterie Board. They offer so many delicious things to eat, making them perfect for a large crowd!

    The top view of a butter board garnished with dried fruits, rosemary sprigs and crostini.

    What is a Butter Board?

    If you’ve been paying attention to social media (especially TikTok), then you may have seen the viral trend of a butter board. It’s basically when you spread a delicious butter of your choice (I used New Zealand Sea Salt Crystal Butter) on a wooden board. Then, you drizzle and sprinkle on some extra flavors… When you are finished putting it together, you serve it with your very favorite crusty bread.

    This trend is brilliant because this not only makes a tasty appetizer for any occasion but… it is a beautiful way to display classic bread and butter that you already have with just about any meal! Charcuterie boards were the beginning of this craze, and I love seeing them evolve into a delicious butter board like this one. You definitely want to hop on board this trending train!

    Ingredients on a Butter Board

    These ingredients are simple and easy and can be changed up according to your taste! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all of the exact measurements!

    • Butter: I used New Zealand Sea Salt Crystal Butter in this butter board recipe.
    • Honey: Drizzle the honey on top to add a sweet flavor to the butter.
    • Lemon Zest: Add in the tang of a lemon with some lemon zest.
    • Dried Fruit: I used tangerines, peaches, and strawberries to decorate the board. They add a delightful fruity taste to complement the butter.
    • Honeycomb: The honeycomb adds an elegant element to the butter board.
    • Coarse Sea Salt: Sprinkle this on to enhance the butter’s flavors.
    • Fresh Rosemary: I love adding in the dark green color of fresh rosemary sprigs.
    • Crostini Bread: A hard and crusty bread is the best for scooping butter off of the board.

    How Do You Make a Butter Board?

    This just might be one of the easiest food trends to replicate right now! It only takes a few steps, and then you will be on your way to indulging in this insanely delicious butter board!

    1. Spread Butter: On a square board, spread the softened butter evenly on the board with a knife or a spoon. Leave about 3 inches around the edge. Add a drizzle of honey.
    2. Grate: Grate some lemon zest and sprinkle on top of the butter.
    3. Add Dried Fruit: Top with tangerines, peaches, strawberries, and honeycomb.
    4. Sprinkle and Serve: Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top and top with fresh rosemary. Then, serve with your favorite crusty bread.
    Six pictures showing the steps of layering all of the ingredients on a butter board.

    Variations

    Making a butter board is easy, and you can easily switch up all of the parts of the board each time to fit your occasion! Here are a few variations that you can try!

    • Add Heat: If you love adding a little bit of heat to your dishes, try sprinkling on some red pepper flakes. The more you add, the hotter it gets, and it will taste delicious!
    • Green Onions: Instead of the rosemary, add in a pop of color and flavor with some fresh, thinly sliced green onions.
    • Nuts: Try adding some pecans, slivered almonds, or walnuts to the board. They add great texture and taste without changing things up too much.
    • Make it Sweet: I know this is a butter board, but you could easily switch up the base to cream cheese! Use different flavors, add things like dollops of jam, and garnish it with some fresh berries! You can still use crusty bread to eat it with, or you could even slice up some bagels and make it a breakfast board!

    A closeup of a finished butter board.

    How to Make it Ahead of Time

    Whether you are making this ahead of time or you have leftovers, storage is the key! Here are some tips on how to keep this fresh and tasting as good as new!

    In the Refrigerator: If you plan on making this ahead of time, then I would store the bread separately and add it to the board just before serving. Store the board in the fridge and cover it with some foil or plastic wrap. When you are ready to eat it, slice up your bread, serve and enjoy!

    A hand scooping some butter onto a slice of crostini bread.

    Bread to Serve with Your Butter Board

    Now that you have an idea for your butter board, you may be wondering what bread to serve with it! Here are a bunch of my homemade favorites that would be perfect to serve with this board! Enjoy!

    Print

    The Very Best Butter Board

    A butter board is the latest trend that you absolutely MUST TRY for your next gathering! This board is packed with the most delicious butter that is drizzled with honey and lemon zest and adds the perfect touch to your favorite bread! 
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword Butter Board Recipe, The Very Best Butter Board, Tik Tok Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes
    Servings 8
    Calories 203kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 8 ounce high quality butter softened (I used New Zealand Sea Salt Crystal Butter)
    • Honey
    • lemon zest
    • dried tangerines
    • dried peaches
    • dried strawberries
    • honeycomb
    • coarse sea salt
    • fresh rosemary
    • crostini bread (for serving)

    Instructions

    • On a square board, spread the butter evenly on the board, leaving about 3 inches around the edge. Drizzle with honey.
    • Grate some lemon zest and sprinkle on top of the butter.
    • Top with tangerines, peaches, strawberries, and honeycomb.
    • Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top and top with fresh rosemary. Serve with favorite crusty bread.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 203kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.02g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 182mg | Potassium: 7mg | Sugar: 0.02g | Vitamin A: 708IU | Calcium: 7mg | Iron: 0.01mg
  • Beet Hummus

    Beet Hummus

    This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my privacy policy.

    Beet hummus is hands down the most beautiful hummus you will ever eat! Roasted red beets transform traditional hummus into a vibrant, creamy, and delicious beet hummus perfect for snacking and serving as a dip.

    This beet hummus is healthy, nutritious, and packed with flavor. The deep red hue is so impressive that serving it at parties or gatherings is a MUST! Your guests will crowd around this hummus because of how gorgeous it is, and stay to eat it because of how delicious it is. Beets are beautiful in so many dishes like in this amazing beet salad and roasted beet, quinoa, and carrot salad! Or just enjoy these simple yet perfect roasted beets.

    Close up view of beet hummus in a gray bowl. A pita chip is being dipped in the hummus with olive oil garnished on top. Vegetables are served on the side of the dip.

    What Is Beet Hummus?

    Beet hummus starts with the classic hummus recipe of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon. Blend in roasted beets and it becomes intensely vibrant and irresistible to your eyes and your tastebuds. The spices add depth and flavor that make this hummus the perfect complement to any veggie platter, sandwich, or charcuterie board.

    Homemade hummus is so easy to make with simple ingredients. It’s light and fluffy, but rich and creamy all in one bowl. Use it as a spread, dip, or enjoy it by the spoonful. And if you’re a hummus lover, you’ll have to try traditional hummus, avocado hummus, or this chocolate hummus next!

    Ingredients For The Prettiest Dip

    The ingredients needed to make beet hummus are easy to find! Canned beets can be used if you can’t find beets to roast yourself. Keep these ingredients on hand so that you always have a quick appetizer to whip up for dinner or a party!

    • Cooked Beets: Beets that have been cooked or roasted ahead of time make this a 5-minute hummus recipe!
    • Olive Oil: Perfect for making the hummus rich and creamy with an olive taste.
    • Tahini: A jar of good quality tahini is the best. It’s a rich and creamy sesame paste that has a great nutty flavor.
    • Chickpeas:  Canned chickpeas are also called garbanzo beans.
    • Lemon: Freshly squeezed is BEST!
    • Garlic Cloves: Garlic is a must! Whole peeled cloves will blend up nicely, but minced garlic works too.
    • Ground Cumin: A perfect savory spice that is perfect for hummus.
    • Ground Coriander: Coriander is a great complement to cumin and the flavors create great taste!
    • Water: Balance the thickness and creaminess with water. Add more or less depending on your preferred consistency.
    • Salt: Salt adds a savory taste.

    Let’s Make Hummus

    This beet hummus recipe comes together so fast in the food processor or blender. I love to use leftover roasted beets from the day before to make a batch of this hummus. Make it a quick snack, light lunch, or a fun dip to serve at your next party.

    1. Add Roasted Beets To Food Processor: Allow the roasted beets to cool slightly then place them into a food processor or blender.
    2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the chickpeas, tahini paste, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, water, salt, cumin, and coriander.
    3. Blend: Blend all of the ingredients together until desired consistency is reached. Add a little more olive oil or water to help reach a smoother texture if it seems too thick. Then give it a taste and add more salt if needed.
    4. Garnish: Garnish with additional olive oil and chopped fresh parsley.
    5. Enjoy: Serve with toasted pita bread, pita chips, crackers, or chopped vegetables.
    First process photo is a bowl of cut up roasted beets. Second process photo is all the beet hummus ingredients inside the food processor before being blended.

    Roasting Beets In The Oven

    I always cook beets in the instant pot for this beet hummus recipe because it is so easy and fast! But if you don’t have an instant pot, it’s just as easy in the oven. Follow my directions below on how to perfectly roast beets in the oven.

    • Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400° Fahrenheit.
    • Wash and Remove Stems: Wash the whole beets, dry them, and cut off the stems.
    • Prepare the Pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Drizzle With Olive Oil: Drizzle the beets with olive oil and place them in the preheated oven.
    • Cook: Roast for 25-30 minutes or until very fork tender. Cooking time will depend on the size of your beets.

    Top view of beet hummus in a gray bowl on top of a white marble cutting board. Vegetables and pita chips are scattered around the hummus.

    Storing Leftover Hummus

    I love making this beet hummus the day before to allow all of the flavors to marry together before serving. It also is great to store for snacking on all week. Serve with some veggies and you have a healthy snack full of fiber and vitamins that are so good for you! Everyone is going to LOVE it!

    • In the Refrigerator: It is best to store leftover beet hummus in an airtight container for 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Hummus will thicken as it chills, so stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cold water. It will add moisture and make it nice and creamy again.

    Top close up view of beet hummus in a gray bowl on top of a white marble cutting board. Vegetables and pita chips are scattered around the hummus.

    More Delicious Dips to Try

    I love that dips can be savory or sweet! I have some favorite dips that I ALWAYS bring to parties because they’re such a hit. Trust me when I say you HAVE to bring one of these dips to your next gathering. Everyone will thank you for it!

    • Allow the roasted beets to cool slightly then place them into a food processor or blender.

    • Add the chickpeas, tahini paste, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, water, salt, cumin, and coriander.

    • Blend all of the ingredients together until desired consistency is reached. Add a little more olive oil or water to help reach a smoother texture if it seems too thick. Give it a taste and add more salt if needed.

    • Garnish with additional olive oil and chopped fresh parsley.

    • Serve with toasted pita bread, pita chips, crackers, or chopped vegetables.

     
     
     
     

    Serves: 6

    Calories242kcal (12%)Carbohydrates21g (7%)Protein7g (14%)Fat16g (25%)Saturated Fat2g (10%)Polyunsaturated Fat4gMonounsaturated Fat9gSodium655mg (27%)Potassium441mg (13%)Fiber6g (24%)Sugar6g (7%)Vitamin A48IU (1%)Vitamin C8mg (10%)Calcium58mg (6%)Iron2mg (11%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Appetizer, dip

    Cuisine American

    Keyword 5 minute, beet hummus, beet hummus recipe, vegetarian

  • Instant Pot Beets

    Instant Pot Beets

    Simple, quick, and delicious, these Instant Pot Beets will become your new favorite side dish! They are packed with nutrients and come out perfectly soft every time. In just fifteen minutes you have a delicious and nutritious side dish that you will go back to again and again.

    I’m a huge fan of my Instant Pot because I’m always on the go. Quick dinners have become a staple in my house and I have a whole list of great recipes that I can whip up in a pinch, like this Instant Pot Chili, my absolute favorite Instant Pot Beef Stew, or my popular Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff.

    Multiple cooked beets in the trivet of an Instant Pot can be seen. One is skewered with a fork.

    Instant Pot Beets

    If you are always looking for ways to use your Instant Pot, then you’ve come to the right place! I love mine because it is so easy to use. I’ve even rounded up a whole list of meals, side dishes, and easy veggies (sweet potatoes in the instant pot, yes please!) you might have never thought of making with your Instant Pot. You can find that round-up here). This Instant Pot Beet recipe is one of the easiest ways to get vitamins and nutrients onto your dinner plate.

    Because they pressure cook, it only takes 10 minutes in the Instant Pot to get perfectly soft. You barely need a knife to slice them open! Beets vary in size, so if you have large beets and small beets in the same pot, I recommend cutting the large beets down to the size of the small ones so they will all be done at the same time. I love this recipe because it’s just too easy!

    Instant Pot Beets Ingredients

    It doesn’t get any more simple than this! That’s what makes this one of the easiest sides you’ll ever make. You can find the exact measurements below on the recipe card.

    • Whole Beets: I bought about 5, but you can do as many as will work in your instant pot.
    • Water: For cooking the beets.

    How to Make Instant Pot Beets

    They are so easy, it doesn’t take much effort to whip up this healthy side dish.

    1. Wash and Prep: Wash and remove the stems from the whole beets.
    2. Prep Instant Pot: Next, position the trivet into the instant pot pressure cooker.
    3. Load Instant Pot: Place the whole beets on top of the trivet steamer basket.
    4. Add Water: Then pour the water into the instant pot.
    5. Seal: Now close the lid and make sure the instant pot is in the seal position.
    6. Select Cook Time: Then select the high-pressure or manual option and add 10 minutes to the timer.
    7. Cool: Once cooked, open the lid and then allow the beets to cool slightly before removing them. Now they will be fork-tender.
    8. Eat: Now enjoy as is, on salads, or in recipes that call for cooked beets.
    4-photo collage of beets being trimmed, washed, and put in the bottom of an Instant Pot.

    What to Make with Beets

    If you need some ideas for what to do with this simple ingredient, I’ve got some great ideas! Use your creativity to work these beets into your diet.

    • In a Salad: Beets add a delicious pop of earthy flavor to your greens. Try this Amazing Pear and Beet Salad, and you’ll be hooked on beets!
    • With Other Root Vegetables: Try these beets with other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and yams. They all go great together, and you could cook them all in the instant pot together for an easy and nutrient-rich side dish.
    • With Yogurt: Hear me out, yogurt and beets actually go really well together! You will be surprised by how sweet and tangy yogurt compliments the earthy beets. You can salt the beets before adding yogurt to bring out more flavor in the beet.

    Top-down view of chopped beets in a white bowl.

    Storing Leftovers

    Get the most out of these Instant Pot beets by storing them with these helpful tips.

    • In the Refrigerator: Once your beets have completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Now they will remain fresh for 3-5 days.

    Other Easy Side Dishes

    Looking for something to serve along side your beets? Or just looking for side dish inspiration in general? I’ve got great ideas cooked up for you!

    Print

    Instant Pot Beets

    Simple, quick, and delicious, these Instant Pot Beets will become your new favorite side dish! They are packed with nutrients and come out perfectly soft every time. In just fifteen minutes you have a delicious and nutritious side dish that you will go back to again and again.
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword 15 minute, how to make beets in the instant pot, instant pot, instant pot beets, instant pot beets recipe
    Prep Time 2 minutes
    Cook Time 12 minutes
    Total Time 14 minutes
    Servings 5
    Calories 0.4kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 5 whole beets, medium sized
    • 1 cup water

    Instructions

    • Wash and remove the stems from the whole beets.
    • Position the trivet into the instant pot.
    • Place the whole beets on top of the trivet.
    • Pour the water into the instant pot.
    • Close the lid and make sure the instant pot is in the seal position.
    • Select the high-pressure or manual option and add 10 minutes to the timer.
    • Once cooked, open the lid and allow the beets to cool slightly before removing them.
    • Enjoy right away as is, on salads, or in recipes that call for cooked beets.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1beet | Calories: 0.4kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.1g | Protein: 0.02g | Fat: 0.002g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 3mg | Fiber: 0.03g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 0.3IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.01mg