Goat Cheese Seasoning: Spices And Herbs For The Perfect Bite

Goat cheese is a tangy soft cheese that pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices. Some common pairings include dill, chives, basil, rosemary, and garlic. For a simple appetizer, goat cheese can be mixed with herbs and olive oil, and served with crackers or toasted baguette slices. It can also be used as a sandwich spread, crumbled on pizza, or added to pasta. When choosing herbs to pair with goat cheese, consider the other ingredients in your dish and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavors.

Dill, chives, basil, and rosemary

Dill is particularly well-suited for goat cheese, as its fresh and fragrant nature complements the cheese's distinct flavour. Chives, on the other hand, offer a subtle onion flavour that enhances the tanginess of the goat cheese. Chives are also a classic pairing for goat cheese, especially in dishes like tarts, quiches, and salads.

Basil, with its sweet and slightly peppery flavour, also pairs well with goat cheese. It adds a touch of freshness and elegance to the spread, making it perfect for summer entertaining. Basil-infused goat cheese is delightful on crackers or crostini, and it also works wonderfully in sandwiches or tossed with pasta.

Rosemary, with its strong, woody aroma and pungent flavour, can be used sparingly to season goat cheese. It adds a sophisticated depth of flavour that makes the spread especially enjoyable during the colder months.

When using these herbs to season goat cheese, you can simply mix them into the cheese or use them as toppings or garnishes. You can also try marinating the goat cheese in olive oil and your chosen herbs, allowing the flavours to meld and intensify. This marinated goat cheese is a delightful appetizer, perfect for crackers or toasted baguette slices.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to find your preferred combinations. Goat cheese is a versatile base that can be enhanced in numerous ways to create a spread that suits your unique palate.

Thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper

Thyme is a herb that pairs beautifully with goat cheese, but you can also get creative with other herbs and blends. For instance, you could try basil, chives, or even spice blends like za'atar. Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat, while salt and pepper enhance the flavours of all the ingredients.

One simple way to prepare goat cheese with these seasonings is to make a marinated goat cheese appetizer. All you need is fresh goat cheese, extra-virgin olive oil, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Place the goat cheese in a shallow serving dish, pour the olive oil over it, and then sprinkle on the seasonings. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before serving with crackers or toasted baguette slices.

Another option is to make a roasted red pepper, thyme, and goat cheese dip. This dip includes roasted red peppers, goat cheese, Greek yoghurt, thyme, garlic, cucumber, and radish. All the ingredients are combined in a food processor and baked in the oven, resulting in a creamy and comforting dip.

Additionally, you can create a garlicky herbed goat cheese spread by combining goat cheese, dill, flat-leaf parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This spread is delicious on grilled sourdough bread or crackers, and it also pairs well with eggs, roasted vegetables, or pasta.

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be enhanced with various seasonings, and thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper are a wonderful combination to try.

Olive oil, thyme, and a touch of spice

Marinated goat cheese with olive oil, thyme, and a touch of spice is one of the easiest and most crowd-pleasing appetizers. It is a versatile dish that can be served with crackers, toasted baguette slices, apple slices, or pear slices.

Ingredients

• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Fresh thyme
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh goat cheese (chèvre)

Instructions

Place the goat cheese in a small, shallow serving dish. Pour the olive oil over the cheese, and then sprinkle with thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Variations and Add-ons

Chèvre pairs well with a variety of flavours. In addition to thyme, you can use other herbs such as basil, chives, rosemary, or tarragon. You can also add spices like garlic, lemon zest, or scallions. For some extra crunch, add chopped almonds, pistachios, or walnuts. A drizzle of honey or chopped dried apricots can also enhance the flavour.

Storage

This dish can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the serving dish, covered tightly, and refrigerate if it will be kept for more than an hour or two. Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving.

Lemon zest, garlic, and mint

Lemon Zest

Lemon zest is a versatile ingredient that can add a bright, citrusy zing to your goat cheese. When using lemon zest with goat cheese, consider the following:

• Lemon zest can be used in conjunction with other herbs and spices such as garlic and mint to create a unique flavour profile.
• The amount of lemon zest used should be adjusted to taste, as too much can overpower the delicate flavour of the goat cheese.
• Lemon zest pairs well with goat cheese in a variety of dishes, including spreads, dips, and salads.

Garlic

Garlic is a pungent and savoury addition to goat cheese, offering a range of benefits:

• Garlic adds depth and complexity to the flavour profile, enhancing the tanginess of the goat cheese.
• Finely grated or crushed garlic blends seamlessly into the cheese, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
• Garlic pairs well with other herbs and spices, such as lemon zest and mint, creating a harmonious combination.

Mint

Mint is a refreshing herb that can provide a cool, crisp flavour to your goat cheese dish. Here are some tips for incorporating mint:

• Fresh mint leaves, finely chopped, can be mixed into goat cheese to create a spread or dip with a subtle mint flavour.
• Mint can also be used as a garnish, adding a pop of colour and a refreshing finish to your dish.
• When pairing mint with lemon zest and garlic, consider using a lighter hand with the mint to avoid overwhelming the other flavours.

Sample Recipe: Goat Cheese Spread with Lemon Zest, Garlic, and Mint

For a simple and delicious appetizer, try making a goat cheese spread:

• Ingredients: 4 oz goat cheese, 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, 1 small clove of garlic, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Preparation: Combine softened goat cheese, finely chopped mint leaves, finely grated garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until well combined and creamy.
• Serving suggestions: Spread on crackers or toasted baguette slices, use as a dip for vegetables, or stuff into an omelette for a savoury treat.

In conclusion, lemon zest, garlic, and mint are a delightful combination that can enhance the flavour of goat cheese. By experimenting with different ratios and serving suggestions, you can create a variety of appetisers, spreads, and salads that are sure to impress.

Oregano, basil, and parsley

Ingredients:

• Goat cheese (one 4-ounce package)
• Oregano (1.5 teaspoons fresh or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• Basil (2 tablespoons fresh or 1 teaspoon dried)
• Parsley (1.5 tablespoons fresh or 1.5 teaspoons dried)
• Garlic (one small clove, finely grated)
• Lemon zest (1 teaspoon)
• Extra virgin olive oil (1 teaspoon, plus more for drizzling)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional ingredients:

• Red pepper flakes
• Dill
• Flat-leaf parsley
• Lemon juice

Instructions:

• Combine all the ingredients, except the olive oil, in a mini food processor. Pulse until the mixture is just whipped and blended, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Transfer the goat cheese spread to a serving bowl. Create a divet in the center using the back of a large spoon.
• Just before serving, drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the spread and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
• Serve with crusty sourdough bread, crackers, or vegetables.

This goat cheese spread is best served fresh but can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is a versatile appetizer that can also be used as a sandwich spread, tossed with pasta, or added to an omelette or frittata.

Frequently asked questions