A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Yield: 15 servings. 8 ounces hand-grated sharp cheddar, (not pre-shredded) 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened ½ cup port wine 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

Yield: 15 servings. 8 ounces hand-grated sharp cheddar, (not pre-shredded) 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened ½ cup port wine 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon

Yield: 15 servings.

8 ounces hand-grated sharp cheddar, (not pre-shredded)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
½ cup port wine
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
Celery sticks, apple slices, black olives, and/or crackers (for serving)

In a food processor, add shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and butter. Pulse until well combined. Add port wine, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Pulse until completely mixed and smooth.

Transfer cheese mixture into a crock or bowl and garnish with sliced almonds. Serve with celery sticks, apples, olives, or crackers.

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This story was published on Aug 13, 2024

Lynn Wells

Lynn Wells gained a fond respect and interest in cooking from her mother and Aunt Addie at the age of 8 in North Carolina. During college, Wells worked in a wide range of restaurants, from fine dining to family- owned. After graduating from UNC Greensboro with a degree in nutrition management and hospitality, Wells began a 21-year career in the nutrition department at Cone Health. In 2014, Wells started Thyme Well Spent Personal Chef Service, an in-home cooking experience for private clients, which continues today. Wells is also a food writer, food stylist, culinary consultant, and the recipe developer/writer for Our State.