Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Blue Cheese Stuffed Iceberg Lettuce Cups?
They are a refreshing appetizer featuring a hollowed iceberg lettuce head filled with a blend of cream cheese, blue cheese, and crunchy vegetables.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
What is the calorie count for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 111.67 calories.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The active preparation takes under 30 minutes, though it requires at least 2 hours of refrigeration time.
What ingredients are needed for the filling?
The filling consists of cream cheese, blue cheese, mayonnaise, green peppers, red onions, chives, walnuts, and Worcestershire sauce.
How should I prepare the iceberg lettuce head?
Core the lettuce and hollow out the center, leaving a sturdy shell about 1.5 inches thick, then wash and dry it thoroughly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the recipe specifically requires at least two hours of refrigeration to allow flavors to meld, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a combination of softened cream cheese and crumbled blue cheese.
How do I ensure the lettuce stays crisp?
After washing the hollowed lettuce, make sure it drains completely and is dry before adding the filling.
What is the best way to wrap the stuffed lettuce for chilling?
Wrap the stuffed lettuce tightly in damp paper towels followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
How do you serve the stuffed lettuce?
Once chilled, unwrap the lettuce and cut it into wedges before placing them on a serving platter.
Are there any recommended garnishes?
You can garnish the wedges with additional chopped chives or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 9.5g of fat.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides about 2.33g of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are approximately 2.67g of carbohydrates per serving.
What seasonings are used in the mixture?
The recipe calls for Worcestershire sauce and ground black pepper.
Is there any cooking involved in this recipe?
No, this is a no-cook recipe that involves mixing fresh ingredients and chilling.
What texture can I expect from this dish?
It offers a blend of smooth, creamy cheese and the crunch of fresh vegetables and walnuts.
Can I substitute the walnuts?
Yes, while the recipe calls for walnuts, you could substitute them with pecans or omit them if you have a nut allergy.
What occasions are these lettuce cups suitable for?
They are perfect for gatherings, picnics, light lunches, or as a stunning appetizer for dinner parties.
How much blue cheese is required?
You will need 1/3 cup of crumbled blue cheese.
How much cream cheese is used?
The recipe requires two 8-ounce packages of softened cream cheese.
Is this recipe considered a salad?
Yes, it is categorized as a salad, specifically a stuffed lettuce salad.
How finely should the vegetables be chopped?
The green peppers and red onions should be finely chopped to ensure they blend well with the cheese mixture.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Iceberg is recommended because its structure allows it to be hollowed out into a sturdy shell, which other lettuces may not support.
Why is the lettuce wrapped in damp paper towels?
The damp paper towels help keep the lettuce hydrated and crisp while it sets in the refrigerator.
How many types of cheese are in this recipe?
There are two types: cream cheese and blue cheese.
Does this recipe contain mayonnaise?
Yes, it uses 1/4 cup of mayonnaise to help bind the filling.
How many ingredients total are in this recipe?
There are 9 main ingredients included in this recipe.
What provides the savory flavor profile?
The combination of blue cheese, Worcestershire sauce, red onions, and chives provides the savory depth.