CREAMY TOMATO & HERB CHEESE TERRINE

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CREAMY TOMATO & HERB CHEESE TERRINE

A vibrant, fresh, and irresistibly creamy no-bake appetizer layered with colorful cherry tomatoes, fragrant herbs, garlic, and lemon. Light, elegant, and perfect for parties, picnics, and charcuterie boards.

Yield: 1 loaf terrine
Temp: No-bake (Chill)
Time: 15 min prep + 4 hours chilling

INGREDIENTS (KEY INGREDIENTS FIRST)

  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, grated
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup goat cheese
  • Optional garnish: basil leaves, cracked pepper, olive oil drizzle

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep the loaf pan

Line a small loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving extra hanging over the sides.

2. Mix the creamy base

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, basil, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

3. Layer the terrine

Spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixture into the bottom of the lined loaf pan.
Add a layer of cherry tomato halves, cut-side down.
Cover with more cream cheese.
Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with cream cheese on top.

4. Chill until firm

Fold the plastic wrap over the top.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

5. Unmold and serve

Lift the terrine out using the plastic wrap.
Invert onto a plate and peel off the wrap.
Garnish as desired.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

  • Serve with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or pita chips.
  • Add to a charcuterie board.
  • Pair with olives, roasted peppers, or cucumber slices.

TIPS & VARIATIONS

  • Mediterranean Style: Add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Extra Creamy: Fold in 2–3 tbsp sour cream.
  • Low-Carb: Serve with cucumber rounds.

STORAGE

Refrigerate up to 3 days, tightly covered.

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