Last week we were visiting my family in New York for a very special occasion (and my favorite summer tradition) — my hometown’s fireman’s parade. Growing up we lived across the street from the local firehouse and our house was the prime viewing location for the parade. My parents always threw a big party, invited tons of friends, and put out a fabulous spread for guests. The party always signaled the ushering in of summer vacation for me and is one of my favorite childhood memories. The annual event definitely influenced my love of entertaining today! This was the first time I’ve been back to see the parade in several years so I knew I wanted to make some special bites to bring with us to the viewing party. 
I got started on a big snack board full of colorful caprese skewers, rainbow carrots and bunches of grapes. Olives and charcuterie added some salty flavors to the board, and for the main event I created a garlic and herb whipped goat cheese spread. It’s easy to make — just combine everything in a bowl and mix until the spread gets light fluffy — and it’s full of flavor from fresh garlic, crispy green herbs, tart lemon juice and a touch of sweet honey. We spread it on crispy crackers and toasts, and even dipped the crunchy rainbow carrots in it too. It’s going to be a staple in my entertaining recipe box for future parties! Get the full recipe below. 
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- 11 oz Goat Cheese
- 2 oz Cream Cheese
- 1 Tbsp of Lemon Juice
- 1 Tbsp of Olive Oil
- 2 Tsp of Honey
- 2 Large Garlic Cloves, Finely Minced
- ¼ Tsp of Red Pepper Flakes
- ¼ Tsp of Dried Thyme
- 1 Tbsp of Fresh Basil, minced
- 1 Tbsp of Fresh Parsley, minced
- 1 Tbsp of Fresh Chives, minced
- Salt and Pepper
- Allow goat cheese and cream cheese to sit at room temperature until they start to soften. Prepare finely minced garlic and minced herbs while you wait.
- Combine goat cheese, cream cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, dried thyme and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Beat together with an electric hand mixer or food processor until combined into a fluffy, light, spreadable texture.
- Using a spatula, fold in the fresh herbs (basil, parsley and chives) until evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with carrot sticks, crackers, and crusty bread.
