Herb Marinated Goat Cheese – A Simple, Elegant Appetizer Bursting with Flavor
If you’re looking for a sophisticated appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Herb Marinated Goat Cheese is the perfect choice! This recipe elevates creamy goat cheese with fresh herbs and a rich olive oil marinade, creating a spreadable, flavorful appetizer that’s sure to impress. Serve it with slices of crusty baguette for a simple, rustic presentation that’s ideal for any occasion – from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations.
Recipe: Herb Marinated Goat Cheese
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 3-4 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Calories: 90 kcal per serving
Servings: 10
Ingredients
- 1 (10-oz) goat cheese log
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme (leaves only)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 sourdough or French baguette, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Slice the Goat Cheese
- Prepare the Cheese
- Slice the goat cheese log into discs about ⅓ inch thick. For easier slicing, place the goat cheese in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Arrange the Slices
- Place the goat cheese slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch pan or a container with a tight-fitting lid.
Step 2: Make the Herb Marinade
- Combine the Ingredients
- In a measuring cup, mix the olive oil, chopped basil, salt, pepper, thyme leaves, and chives. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
Step 3: Marinate the Goat Cheese
- Pour the Marinade
- Pour the olive oil and herb mixture over the goat cheese slices, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the flavorful marinade.
- Refrigerate
- Cover the container with an airtight lid or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 3-4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Soften the Cheese
- About 20 minutes before serving, remove the goat cheese from the fridge to let it soften slightly for easier spreading.
- Serve with Baguette
- Arrange the marinated goat cheese on a serving platter with baguette slices on the side. Enjoy this herb-infused appetizer!
Tips for Making Perfect Herb Marinated Goat Cheese
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, and chives provide the best flavor. If needed, substitute with dried herbs but use a smaller amount.
- Plan Ahead: Allow enough time for the cheese to marinate – this helps the flavors develop and infuse the cheese.
- Serve at Room Temperature: Letting the goat cheese sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving makes it easier to spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Herb Marinated Goat Cheese is an elegant appetizer that brings together the creamy texture of goat cheese with the aromatic flavors of fresh herbs and quality olive oil. It’s easy to prepare, yet feels indulgent and sophisticated, making it perfect for entertaining. Plus, the beautiful presentation of cheese rounds in a herbed olive oil marinade looks as good as it tastes!
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Herb Marinated Goat Cheese
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
Description
Herb Marinated Goat Cheese is an effortlessly elegant appetizer that brings together the tangy creaminess of goat cheese with the aromatic freshness of herbs like basil, thyme, and chives. As the goat cheese soaks in the olive oil and herb marinade, it absorbs a medley of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, creating a rich and savory delight that pairs beautifully with sliced baguette.
Ingredients
1 (10-oz) goat cheese log
¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
3 sprigs fresh thyme (leaves only)
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 sourdough or French baguette, sliced
Instructions
Slice the goat cheese log into discs about ⅓ inch thick. For easier slicing, place the goat cheese in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.
Arrange the goat cheese slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch pan or a container with a tight-fitting lid.
In a measuring cup, combine olive oil, chopped basil, salt, pepper, thyme leaves, and chives. Stir well to blend.
Pour the olive oil and herb mixture over the goat cheese slices, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the container with an airtight lid or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 3-4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
About 20 minutes before serving, remove the goat cheese from the fridge to let it soften slightly for easier spreading.
Serve with baguette slices and enjoy this delicious, herb-infused appetizer!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 90