Save Discover the charm of the Lucky Clover Seasonal Starters, a vibrant trio of elegant seasonal appetizers artfully plated to resemble a clover leaf. This contemporary French creation celebrates fresh, bold flavors and makes a stunning impression at any gathering. Each component—from the silky green pea and mint purée to the tangy roasted beet carpaccio and creamy goat cheese pistachio mousse—balances texture and taste in a harmonious dish perfect for spring and summer entertaining.
Save This recipe is a celebration of freshness and seasonal ingredients. Its colorful trio is not only a feast for the eyes but also a culinary journey that highlights subtle contrasts—from sweet and earthy beets to refreshing mint and rich goat cheese. Ideal for special occasions or elegant dinners, the Lucky Clover Starters set the tone for a memorable meal.
Ingredients
- Green Pea & Mint Purée
200 g fresh or frozen green peas, 1 small shallot (finely chopped), 1 tbsp olive oil, 5 fresh mint leaves, 1 tbsp crème fraîche, salt and freshly ground black pepper - Roasted Beet Carpaccio
2 small cooked beets (peeled and thinly sliced), 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp honey, salt and pepper - Goat Cheese & Pistachio Mousse
120 g fresh goat cheese (softened), 2 tbsp mascarpone cheese, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives, 2 tbsp shelled pistachios (finely chopped), freshly ground black pepper - Garnish
Handful of baby arugula leaves, edible flowers (optional), extra chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Pea & Mint Purée:
- In a small saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté shallot until translucent. Add peas and cook for 2–3 minutes (longer if frozen). Drain and rinse under cold water. Blend peas, mint, crème fraîche, salt, and pepper until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Roasted Beet Carpaccio:
- Whisk balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Arrange beet slices on a plate and drizzle with the dressing. Chill.
- Prepare the Goat Cheese & Pistachio Mousse:
- In a bowl, mix goat cheese, mascarpone, lemon juice, chives, and black pepper until creamy. Fold in chopped pistachios. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Assemble the Starters:
- On each plate, arrange three leaves in a clover shape: one scoop green pea purée, one beet slice, and one quenelle of goat cheese mousse. Garnish with baby arugula, edible flowers, and extra pistachios. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For best results, use fresh peas when in season or high-quality frozen peas. Ensure the shallot is finely chopped to avoid overpowering the purée. When slicing beets, use a mandoline or very sharp knife for even thin slices, and chill the dressing before drizzling to maintain brightness. Chill the goat cheese mousse sufficiently to help it hold its shape when forming quenelles.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, substitute plant-based crème fraîche and cheese alternatives to maintain the creamy texture. Adding microgreens enhances freshness and visual appeal. You can also experiment with nuts, replacing pistachios with toasted almonds or walnuts if preferred, keeping in mind allergen considerations.
Serviervorschläge
Serve the Lucky Clover Seasonal Starters as an elegant appetizer alongside a dry Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp sparkling wine to complement the fresh and tangy flavors. The dish pairs beautifully with light, fresh salads or as a refined start to a multi-course meal.
Save Enjoy creating this delightful trio of Lucky Clover Seasonal Starters that bring together freshness, texture, and sophisticated flavors. Perfect for impressing your guests or elevating a special occasion, these starters invite you to savor the beauty and taste of seasonal ingredients in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prepare the green pea and mint purée?
Sauté finely chopped shallots in olive oil until translucent, add peas and cook briefly, then blend with fresh mint leaves, crème fraîche, salt, and pepper until smooth. Chill before serving.
- → What is the best way to slice the beets for the carpaccio?
Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to cut cooked beets into thin, uniform slices to ensure tenderness and an elegant presentation.
- → How can I make the goat cheese mousse more firm?
After mixing goat cheese, mascarpone, lemon juice, chives, and pepper, fold in chopped pistachios and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to help it firm up.
- → Can I easily modify this for vegan diets?
Yes, substitute dairy components like crème fraîche and cheeses with plant-based alternatives while keeping the other ingredients intact.
- → What type of wine pairs well with these starters?
A dry Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp sparkling wine complements the freshness and richness of these seasonal starters beautifully.