Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini
Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes
I absolutely adore making Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini for gatherings. The combination of creamy goat cheese infused with fresh herbs, all served atop crispy toasted bread, is irresistible. It’s a simple yet elegant appetizer that never fails to impress. Every time I prepare this dish, the aroma of herbs fills the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also allows for customization with your favorite fresh herbs, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!
When I first made Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini, I was blown away by how easy it was to create such a flavorful dish. The key lies in using high-quality goat cheese and fresh herbs; the flavor they bring is unmatched. In my experience, mixing the cheese with a bit of olive oil adds a lovely creaminess that enhances the texture.
Another tip I discovered is to toast the bread just right—golden brown and crispy without being too hard. This balance ensures that each bite has the perfect crunch, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy topping. Once I mastered these details, I knew I had a winner!
You'll Love This Recipe Because
- The perfect blend of creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs
- Quick to prepare, making it an ideal appetizer
- Elegant presentation that impresses any crowd
Understanding the Ingredients
The combination of goat cheese and cream cheese creates a creamy texture that holds up wonderfully on the crisp baguette. Goat cheese offers a distinct tang that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of fresh herbs. It's important to let the cheeses soften at room temperature for easier blending. I recommend using a high-quality goat cheese for a richer flavor, as it truly makes a difference in the overall taste of the crostini.
The choice of herbs is crucial, as they will dictate the flavor profile of the spread. Fresh rosemary gives a woody, aromatic essence, while thyme adds warmth and an almost sweet undertone. Parsley brightens the mixture, cutting through the richness of the cheeses. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding other herbs such as basil or chives for a unique twist.
Toasting Bread Like a Pro
Properly toasting the baguette is key to getting that delightful crunch. Preheating the oven ensures even cooking. Keep a close eye during the 5-7 minute toasting phase; you want golden-brown edges, not burnt bread. If you prefer a grill flavor, toasting on a grill pan for 2-3 minutes per side can add a smoky touch that complements the herbs.
Brushing the bread with olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that crispy texture. For a richer taste, try using garlic-infused olive oil or add a sprinkle of sea salt atop the slices before toasting. This extra effort elevates the simple crostini to a gourmet appetizer.
Ingredients
- Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful herbed goat cheese spread.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 French baguette, sliced
- Olive oil for brushing
- Prepare the bread just before serving for optimal crispiness.
Instructions
- Follow these steps to make your delicious Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini.
Prepare the Herbed Goat Cheese Spread
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, chopped herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
Toast the Baguette Slices
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Assemble the Crostini
Spread a generous amount of the herbed goat cheese mixture on each toasted baguette slice. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm.
- Enjoy your crostini with a glass of wine for an elevated experience.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your taste
- basil and chives work wonderfully too!
Serving Suggestions
These Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini are versatile; they can be served as a standalone appetizer or paired with a variety of accompaniments. For a more substantial offering, serve them alongside a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, olives, and pickles. The flavors mingle beautifully, making for an impressive starter that guests will enjoy exploring.
Consider drizzling a little honey or balsamic reduction on top before serving for an unexpected sweetness that contrasts with the savory cheese. Garnishing with extra chopped herbs or microgreens also adds a touch of freshness and elevates the visual appeal.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
You can prepare the herbed goat cheese spread a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge; this not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Just be sure to let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before spreading on the toasted baguette.
As for the toasted bread, it's best to prepare it fresh as it can lose its crunch. However, if you do have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, but they may become soggy. Recrisping them in the oven for a couple of minutes will revive their texture if needed.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs will provide a brighter flavor.
→ How long can I store leftover goat cheese spread?
You can store the goat cheese spread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
It's best to assemble them shortly before serving to keep the bread crispy.
→ What can I serve with these crostini?
Pair them with a fresh salad, wine, or other appetizers like olives and charcuterie.
Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini
I absolutely adore making Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini for gatherings. The combination of creamy goat cheese infused with fresh herbs, all served atop crispy toasted bread, is irresistible. It’s a simple yet elegant appetizer that never fails to impress. Every time I prepare this dish, the aroma of herbs fills the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also allows for customization with your favorite fresh herbs, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 French baguette, sliced
- Olive oil for brushing
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, chopped herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Spread a generous amount of the herbed goat cheese mixture on each toasted baguette slice. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your taste
- basil and chives work wonderfully too!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 5g