Polished Pebble Cheese Almonds (Printable)

Oval cheeses paired with roasted almonds, basil, and microgreens create a visually delightful starter.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cheeses

01 - 7 oz oval-shaped mini mozzarella balls
02 - 7 oz oval goat cheese medallions or soft cheese cut into ovals
03 - 5 oz Babybel cheese, peeled and halved

→ Nuts

04 - 3.5 oz whole raw almonds

→ Garnishes

05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
07 - Small handful fresh basil leaves
08 - Microgreens or edible flowers (optional)

# How to Make:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread almonds evenly on a baking tray and roast for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once, until golden and fragrant. Remove and let cool.
02 - Drain the mozzarella balls and goat cheese medallions. Pat dry with paper towels to achieve a polished appearance.
03 - On a large serving platter or wooden board, arrange the cheeses and roasted almonds in an organic, meandering pattern to mimic a stream-bed of pebbles. Alternate cheese types and almonds for visual interest.
04 - Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, microgreens, and edible flowers for a natural, garden-inspired presentation.
05 - Serve immediately with cocktail picks or small forks for easy enjoyment.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It takes fifteen minutes flat and impresses like you've spent hours planning.
  • The mild flavors let good cheese shine without competing or overwhelming.
  • You can prep everything an hour ahead and let it sit at room temperature, which is honestly a lifesaver.
02 -
  • Wet cheeses slip and slide—that dry step with paper towels isn't optional, it's foundational to the whole visual concept.
  • Room temperature mozzarella tastes infinitely better than cold; pull it from the fridge twenty minutes before serving.
03 -
  • Arrange everything on the board, then let it sit uncovered in a cool kitchen for up to an hour—the flavors meld slightly and it looks intentional rather than rushed.
  • Toast your almonds the morning of your event; they taste best within hours of roasting, and the aroma in your kitchen sets a lovely tone before guests arrive.
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