Randy Chandler
Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to salads and sandwiches. When it comes to adding flavour to goat cheese, there are numerous options to choose from. Fresh herbs such as basil, chives, rosemary, and thyme are popular additions, as are spices like red pepper flakes and black pepper. For a sweet touch, honey pairs well with goat cheese, and for a more savoury option, olive oil is a common choice. Toasted nuts such as pine nuts, almonds, and walnuts can add a crunchy texture, while dried fruit like apricots or cherries can provide a burst of sweetness. Goat cheese can also be marinated in olive oil and various herbs and spices to create a delicious spread for bread, crackers, or vegetables.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Dish | Appetizer, Salad, Sandwich Spread, Pizza Topping |
| Main Ingredients | Goat Cheese, Olive Oil, Herbs, Nuts, Fruits, Spices |
| Accompaniments | Crackers, Baguette, Bread, Salads, Roasted Meats, Eggs |
| Preparation Time | 30 minutes to 24 hours in advance |
| Storage | Refrigerate, bring to room temperature before serving |
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What You'll Learn
Herbs, nuts, honey, and dried fruit
Goat cheese, or chèvre in French, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savoury dishes. Its tangy and creamy flavour pairs well with herbs, nuts, honey, and dried fruit.
Herbs
Herbs can be used to accentuate the flavour of goat cheese. Fresh herbs such as basil, rosemary, and oregano can be added to goat cheese to enhance its flavour. For example, goat cheese and basil pair well together in a pasta dish or as a topping for broiled asparagus. Rosemary and orange zest can be sprinkled over the surface of the goat cheese and allowed to sit for several hours or overnight, so the flavours absorb into the cheese.
Nuts
Nuts can also be added to goat cheese to provide a crunchy texture and a nutty flavour. Toasted sourdough topped with goat cheese, honey-roasted pears, and walnuts is a tasty combination that can be prepared in just a few minutes. Almonds are another nut that pairs well with goat cheese, as seen in the example of salty date and almond crackers that can be served with goat cheese.
Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that can be drizzled over goat cheese to balance its tangy flavour. It can be used as a dressing for a salad containing goat cheese, or as a topping for a goat cheese appetizer. When combined with warm honey, goat cheese, and Greek yogurt, the honey cools to a caramel-like consistency, creating a unique texture and flavour.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruits such as cranberries, apricots, and raisins are often paired with goat cheese. The sweetness of the fruit complements the tangy and creamy flavour of the cheese. For example, a goat cheese log can be purchased or made at home with added dried fruits and nuts.
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Olive oil and sun-dried tomatoes
One way to use these ingredients is to make a warm goat cheese and sun-dried tomato salad. Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper, and let them marinate while you prepare the rest of the salad. Slice and toast a baguette, then rub the slices with a clove of garlic. Spread goat cheese on the baguette slices, and top with the marinated sun-dried tomatoes and some fresh basil.
You could also try making a sun-dried tomato and goat cheese pasta. Cook your favourite pasta according to the package instructions, then toss with olive oil, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled goat cheese. Add some chopped fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
For a more substantial dish, try making a sun-dried tomato and goat cheese tart. Roll out a sheet of puff pastry and spread it with a mixture of softened goat cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped black olives. Sprinkle with fresh thyme and season with salt and pepper, then bake until the pastry is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Finally, for a simple appetizer, try making a sun-dried tomato and goat cheese crostini. Slice a baguette on the diagonal and toast the slices, then spread them with goat cheese. Top with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme.
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Thyme, red pepper, and salt
One way to use thyme with goat cheese is to incorporate it into a salad. For example, Alice Waters' iconic salad combines lettuces with baked thyme-and-breadcrumb-coated goat cheese and crunchy garlic croutons. The thyme adds a warm, earthy flavour to the goat cheese, while the breadcrumb coating provides a crispy texture.
Another option is to use thyme to make a dressing or sauce for goat cheese dishes. Thyme can be infused into olive oil or vinegar, which can then be whisked with fresh goat cheese and oil to create a creamy dressing for a beet and carrot salad. Alternatively, thyme can be added to a simple béchamel sauce, which can then be folded into airy whipped egg whites to create a French cheese soufflé. The thyme will lend a subtle, earthy flavour to the sauce, complementing the tanginess of the goat cheese.
Red pepper, when paired with thyme and salt, can add a sweet and spicy kick to goat cheese dishes. Red pepper flakes or freshly chopped red peppers can be used to sprinkle over goat cheese to add a crunchy texture and a vibrant colour. Additionally, red peppers can be roasted and puréed to create a smooth, spicy sauce that can be drizzled over goat cheese or used as a dip.
Salt is essential to enhancing the flavours of goat cheese, thyme, and red pepper. It accentuates the tanginess of the goat cheese and brings out the earthy notes of the thyme. When using salt, it is important to consider the type and amount to ensure the dish is not overly salty. A flaky sea salt or a coarse kosher salt can add a crunchy texture, while a finer salt can be used to more evenly season the dish.
In conclusion, thyme, red pepper, and salt can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the flavour of goat cheese. Whether used in salads, dressings, sauces, or as a topping, these ingredients complement the tanginess and creaminess of goat cheese while adding depth and complexity to the dish.
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Spices and herbs
Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be paired with a variety of spices and herbs. The tangy and creamy nature of goat cheese makes it a perfect match for fresh herbs. Here are some herbs and spices that can be added to goat cheese:
- Basil: This herb is a popular choice for goat cheese, with its fresh and summery flavour. It can be used on its own or in combination with other herbs.
- Thyme: Thyme adds an earthy flavour to the goat cheese and is often used in marinades.
- Chives: Chives have a mild onion flavour that can enhance the taste of goat cheese without being overpowering.
- Dill: Dill is a star ingredient when paired with goat cheese, adding a unique flavour. It can be used fresh or freeze-dried.
- Parsley: Flat-leaf parsley adds a bright, fresh flavour to the goat cheese and is often paired with dill.
- Oregano: This herb can be used fresh or dried and adds a distinct flavour to the goat cheese.
- Rosemary: Fresh rosemary is a great addition to goat cheese, providing a strong aroma and flavour.
- Mint: Mint provides a refreshing flavour and is often used in combination with basil or dill.
- Tarragon: This herb can make goat cheese pop and is a great way to enhance its flavour.
- Herbs de Provence: This blend of herbs can add a unique flavour to goat cheese and is perfect for experimenting with different combinations.
When it comes to spices, allspice, coriander, red pepper flakes, and star anise can be crushed and cooked with garlic, orange zest, bay leaves, and oil to create a delicious marinade for goat cheese. This combination of spices and herbs can be drizzled over the cheese and served with toasted bread.
Additionally, garlic is a popular addition to goat cheese, providing a punch of flavour. Sun-dried tomatoes, cranberries, and cherries can also be added for a sweet and savoury touch.
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Vegetables and fruits
Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savoury dishes. Its tangy, creamy flavour pairs well with many fruits and vegetables.
A simple way to enjoy goat cheese is to spread it on warm bread or toast and top it with fruits or vegetables. Some fruits that go well with goat cheese include apricot, blueberry, fig, peach, pear, and pomegranate. For a more savoury option, try spreading goat cheese on toast and topping it with vegetables such as artichoke, asparagus, avocado, beetroot, or cucumber.
Goat cheese can also be used to make delicious salads. Combine goat cheese with vegetables such as arugula, baby greens, basil, spinach, and tomatoes for a refreshing summer salad. For a heartier salad, add in grilled chicken, bacon, or prosciutto. You can also try a warm salad by roasting vegetables like beets, carrots, and beet greens, and tossing them with a dressing made from goat cheese, vinegar, and oil.
For a more substantial meal, goat cheese can be added to pasta, pizza, or tarts. Create a vegetarian pizza by topping pizza dough with broccoli, courgette, red chilli, and goat cheese. Or, for a more unique flavour combination, try a pasta dish with leeks, walnuts, garlic, chilli, and goat cheese. Goat cheese can also be used to make a savoury vegetable tart or a classic French cheese soufflé.
The options for pairing goat cheese with fruits and vegetables are endless, allowing you to create delicious and creative dishes.
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Frequently asked questions
You can make a delicious appetizer by adding olive oil, thyme, and a bit of spice to goat cheese. You can also add red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let it sit for 30 minutes and serve with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
You can make a goat cheese sandwich by adding herbs to the cheese and spreading it on toasted bread. You can also add ingredients like smoked salmon, Italian deli meats, or roasted or grilled vegetables.
You can add goat cheese to a salad by slicing it into thick pieces and serving it on a bed of greens with roasted beets. You can also add pine nuts and a splash of lemon juice.
