Tuscan Goat Cheese Spread Recipes

GARLICKY HERBED GOAT CHEESE SPREAD

Steps:

• Combine all the ingredients in a mini food processor. Pulse until just whipped and blended (and the herbs are well-distributed in small, even pieces), scraping down the sides of the bowl once or twice if needed. Transfer the goat cheese spread to a serving bowl (I like to place it off-center, as seen in the photos above), using the back of a large spoon to create a divet and swoosh.
• Just before serving, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and garnish with several dill fronds. This goat cheese spread is best served right away, but can be prepared in advance and stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Store in a container with a tight-fitting lid.
• If you do not have a mini food processor or don't wish to use one: before proceeding, finely chop the herbs (it is especially important for the goat cheese to be at room temperature if mixing by hand) and mix everything together with a spoon or spatula until well incorporated. *I prefer to use a mini food processor, because it is quick, fast, and incorporates a little air into the goat cheese, creating a slightly whipped, lighter texture.

TUSCAN CHEESE SPREAD

Steps:

• Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bow. Add the herbs & spices for the spread except cheese. Microwave for 30 seconds. Mix thoroughly adjust seasonings to taste, refrigerate until ready to serve.
• Add the balsamic vinegar & brown sugar to a small saucepan, bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to med-low and stir occasionally until reduced by half and thickened, about 30-45 minutes. Set aside until ready to serve.
• Combine tomatoes, fresh basil, onions, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Toss and refrigerate at least a few hours, overnight is best.
• When ready to serve spread cheese spread into an oven proof serving serving dish. I spread mine on one half of a 9x9 or 13x9 if doubling or tripling, the other half will be for the bruschetta. Top spread with some Parmesan cheese and bake at 400°F until melted. Spoon bruschetta on the other side of cheese spread. Sprinkle balsamic glaze over tomato mix. Or you can pile the bruschetta on top of the cheese spread. Spread some cheese on some sliced bread and top with bruschetta.

TOMATO-GOAT CHEESE SPREAD

Steps:

• Drain tomatoes, reserving 3 tablespoons of oil., In a small skillet, heat reserved oil, tomatoes and garlic over medium-high heat. Cook and stir 5 minutes or until garlic is golden and tomatoes are heated through. To serve, place cheese on a serving plate. Pour tomato mixture over cheese. If desired, sprinkle with parsley. Serve with crackers.

MARINATED GOAT CHEESE SPREAD / DIP

Steps:

• Arrange cheese in a shallow dish in a single layer. Scatter olives, sundried tomatoes and basil over and around it.
• In a small bowl, combine vinegar, oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and pepper. Pour over cheese.
• Marinate a few hours in the fridge or overnight. Serve at room temperature with grilled or fresh bread.