Goat Cheese's Perfect Herb Companion: A Guide

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in appetizers, salads, and sandwiches. It has a tangy, creamy flavour that pairs well with herbs such as basil, thyme, chives, dill, rosemary, and mint. When combined with olive oil and herbs, goat cheese becomes even more delicious and creamy. This combination can be used as a spread on bread or crackers, or as a topping for salads, grilled chicken, or pizza.

Dill, thyme, oregano, chives, basil, rosemary, and mint

Dill, with its subtle hint of lemon, is a versatile herb that pairs well with goat cheese. It can be used in a marinade, or chopped and mixed with the cheese to create a delicious spread for pita bread or crackers. Thyme, with its earthy and slightly minty flavour, is another excellent choice to complement the tanginess of goat cheese. Oregano, with its robust and slightly pungent flavour, can also be paired with goat cheese, although some may find it too earthy.

Chives, with their mild onion flavour, are a versatile herb that goes well with any cheese, including goat cheese. They can be snipped directly into a serving dish, adding a subtle flavour to the cheese without bruising or crushing the herb. Basil, with its sweet and slightly peppery taste, is another excellent choice to pair with goat cheese, especially during the summer months when it is in abundance.

Rosemary, with its strong and aromatic flavour, can also complement goat cheese, adding a unique taste to the dish. Finally, mint can be paired with goat cheese, providing a refreshing and slightly sweet flavour. Whether used in a marinade or sprinkled on top, these herbs enhance the flavour of goat cheese and make it even more delightful.

Lemon juice and olive oil

To make a lemon juice and olive oil marinade, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, and your chosen herbs and seasonings in a small bowl or ramekin. Roll the goat cheese log in the mixture, and then place the goat cheese into the bowl and spoon the marinade over the cheese. Leave the goat cheese to marinate for an hour at room temperature, or a few hours in the fridge. You can also slice the goat cheese into rounds and place them in a jar, covering them with the marinade.

You can serve this as an appetizer with warm crusty bread, or use it in a salad or sandwich. The leftover marinade can be used for salad dressing or to drizzle over grilled chicken.

Garlic and red pepper flakes

Goat cheese with garlic and red pepper flakes can also be used as a sandwich spread, a pizza topping, or melted on grilled chicken. For a simple pasta dish, goat cheese, garlic, and red pepper flakes can be combined with roasted red peppers and tossed with pasta. The garlic and red pepper flakes enhance the flavor of the goat cheese, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Additionally, you can try experimenting with different types of goat cheese, such as aged or artisanal varieties, to find a stronger flavor that pairs well with garlic and red pepper flakes.

Lemon zest and black pepper

For a simple, yet impressive, appetizer, create a goat cheese spread with lemon and honey. Place a log of goat cheese in a food processor with Greek yoghurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, black pepper, and salt. Pulse until creamy, then transfer to a shallow bowl. Sprinkle over some more lemon zest and black pepper, and finish with a drizzle of honey. Serve with crackers or crostini.

If you want to make more of a meal out of it, try making a baked goat cheese dip with lemon and thyme. Combine goat cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan, olive oil, garlic, and black pepper in a food processor. Add in some fresh herbs and lemon zest, then spread the mixture into a baking dish and bake until warm and bubbling. Serve with crostini, crackers, or naan.

For a beautiful and delicious appetizer, try making an herb-marinated goat cheese. Roll a log of goat cheese in a mixture of fresh herbs, then place it in a dish and cover with olive oil. You can use a variety of herbs, such as basil, thyme, chives, dill, or rosemary. After marinating, serve the goat cheese with a baguette or crackers. This appetizer can be made ahead of time and will last for up to 10 days in the fridge.

Tarragon

Chicken stuffed with goat's cheese and tarragon

Stuff chicken breasts with a mixture of goat's cheese, lemon zest, chilli, and tarragon. Wrap the chicken breasts in prosciutto and bake in the oven for a simple yet impressive main course.

Beetroot, goat's cheese, and tarragon salad

This salad combines boiled beetroot with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, goat's cheese, tarragon, watercress, and vinegar. It is a fresh and healthy option that can be served as a winter salad or side dish.

For a quick and easy lunch, try making a tarragon goat cheese egg salad sandwich. Mix goat cheese and tarragon with chopped boiled eggs, mayonnaise, and any additional vegetables or seasonings of your choice. Spread the mixture on bread with lettuce and tomato for a tasty and satisfying sandwich.

Fried goat cheese with tarragon and honey

This recipe takes a bit more preparation but is worth the effort. Coat pieces of goat cheese with flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Fry the coated cheese in canola oil until golden. Top with honey and tarragon for a delicious combination of sweet and savoury flavours.

Smoked salmon, fennel, and goat cheese toasts

Smoked salmon, fennel, and goat cheese toasts are a great option for a sophisticated appetiser or light meal. Combine goat cheese, tarragon, smoked salmon, lemon, olive oil, and fennel seeds and spread on toasted bread. This combination of flavours and textures is sure to impress your guests.

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