Description
This Winter Snowdrift Goat Cheese recipe offers a delightful blend of fresh herbs, toasted walnuts, and sweet dried cranberries coating a creamy goat cheese log. Perfect as an elegant appetizer, it combines bright flavors with a hint of lemon zest and a touch of pepper. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings, serve it with crackers or baguette slices and a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 10 oz fresh goat cheese log, chilled
Herb and Nut Coating
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup toasted walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest, finely grated
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To Serve
- Crackers or baguette slices
- Honey, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare herb and nut mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the freshly chopped chives, parsley, dill, toasted and finely chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, lemon zest, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to create an even herb and nut blend.
- Coat goat cheese log: Take the chilled goat cheese log and gently roll it in the herb and nut mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating adheres evenly on all sides of the cheese log, covering it completely.
- Chill and meld flavors: Place the coated goat cheese log on a serving platter. Cover it with plastic wrap or a suitable cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally drizzle the coated goat cheese log with honey for a subtle sweetness contrast. Serve with crackers or baguette slices for an elegant and tasty appetizer presentation.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh herbs and toast the walnuts just before chopping to retain maximum aroma.
- The goat cheese should be well chilled for easy rolling and to hold the coating.
- If desired, substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for variation.
- Honey drizzle is optional but adds a lovely sweet balance to the tangy goat cheese.
- Prepare the herb and nut mixture in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: goat cheese appetizer, herb coated cheese, walnut and cranberry goat cheese, holiday appetizer, quick cheese spread
