Looking for a simple holiday appetizer that’s impressive and ready in minutes? This garlic-and-herb cheese appetizer uses store-bought Boursin and a few fresh toppings to create a creamy, flavorful spread your guests will love. Serve it with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables for an easy party favorite.
I often experiment with different ways to showcase Boursin (the garlic & herb variety is my go-to). While Boursin is delicious straight from the tub with crackers, this dressed-up version adds a few simple ingredients to elevate the flavor for the holidays. It comes together in about five minutes and makes a great centerpiece for any appetizer spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boursin Cheese (Garlic & Herb)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Sour cream
- Chopped nuts (toasted)
- Red pepper flakes
- Parmesan (shaved, grated, or shredded)
- Lemon zest
- Sea salt and black pepper
This appetizer is essentially “dressed-up” Boursin—simple, fast, and crowd-pleasing. Because it relies on a quality store-bought cheese, preparation is minimal: soften, mix, top, and serve. The small extra steps add texture and brightness, turning a familiar favorite into something festive.
What is Boursin Cheese?
Boursin is a soft French-style cheese seasoned with herbs and spices, sold in rounds and available in several flavors. Its texture is similar to cream cheese, and the garlic & herb variety brings a savory, herby base that’s ideal for spreading and topping. You’ll typically find it in the refrigerated cheese or deli section at the grocery store.
Smooth & creamy: To achieve a spread that’s easy to serve and enjoy, allow the Boursin to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before mixing. Stirring in a bit of sour cream softens the cheese and makes it easier to spread on crackers or crostini.
Toppings for the Garlic and Herb Cheese Appetizer
Toppings create the flavor contrast and texture that make this appetizer special. Use the combinations below or mix and match to suit your taste.
- Parmesan (shaved, shredded, or grated)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Red pepper flakes (or chili flakes)
- Lemon zest for brightness
- Chopped toasted nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, pistachios)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
More topping ideas
- Hot honey drizzle
- Balsamic reduction
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Thin slices of prosciutto
- Caramelized onions
- Crispy bacon crumbles
- Chopped or sun-dried tomatoes
- Fresh chives or scallions
What to serve with this appetizer
- Crackers
- Crostini made from toasted baguette slices
- Toast points
- Pita chips
- Fresh vegetable slices (bell peppers, celery, cucumber, carrots)
Leftovers: Use any leftovers as a spread for sandwiches or wraps. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
More party appetizers to try
- BLT Deviled Eggs
- Goat Cheese with Fig Jam and Pecans
- Salmon Cheese Ball
- Blueberry Goat Cheese Log
- Smoked Tuna Dip
This garlic-and-herb Boursin appetizer is one of the easiest, most delicious options for holiday entertaining. If you try it, leave a comment to share how it turned out.
Garlic and Herb Cheese Appetizer
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Ingredients
- 2 (5.2 ounce) Boursin Rounds (Garlic and Herb)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley) (chopped)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (or chili flakes)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans, almonds, pistachios)
- 1 pinch coarse sea salt
- 1 pinch coarse ground black pepper
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, combine the Boursin Garlic & Herb rounds with the sour cream and stir until smooth.
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Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and spread into an even layer.
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Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
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Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs and toasted nuts over the cheese.
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Add lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and parmesan to taste.
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Finish with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper.
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Serve immediately with crostini, crackers, or vegetables.
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g