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Not all types of cheese are made to be cooked; in fact, certain cheese varieties taste best when consumed plain or when paired with the right ingredients. Goat’s cheese is definitely one such variety. Goat cheese can vary in texture from soft and creamy to firm and crumbly. Soft goat cheese spreads easily and is often used as a spread or dip, while firmer varieties may be sliced or crumbled over dishes.
Goat cheese has a tangy flavour that can range from mild to sharp, depending on factors such as ageing and processing. Some people may find the taste of goat cheese stronger or more distinct than cow's milk cheese. If you're new to goat cheese, you may want to start with milder varieties and gradually explore more intense flavours as your palate adjusts.
This cheese pairs well with fresh produce, especially fruits like figs, apples, and grapes, as well as honey, nuts, and herbs. It's often used in salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and appetizers. The idea is to highlight its natural taste. Here are a few ways you can eat goat’s cheese at home.
Use it with sandwiches
Upgrade your classic grilled cheese sandwich by using tangy goat cheese as the star ingredient. Start by spreading a generous layer of goat cheese onto two slices of your favourite bread. Add complementary ingredients such as sliced tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for sweetness. Grill the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the goat cheese is melted and gooey.
Pair it with dates (preferably during breakfast)
You can simply consume dates and goat cheese together or stuff your dates with goat cheese, which also makes for a travel-friendly snack. Start by pitting Medjool dates and filling each one with a small amount of soft goat cheese. For an extra layer of flavour, you can add a toasted nut such as almonds or walnuts to the centre before wrapping the date in crispy bacon.
Use it with salads
Leafy greens and certain tubers like beets pair really well with goat cheese as they combine earthy sweetness with creamy tanginess. For a vibrant and nutritious salad, roast or steam fresh beets until tender, then slice them thinly. Arrange the beet slices on a bed of mixed greens and crumble tangy goat cheese on top. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey for a perfect balance of flavours. Garnish with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and protein.
Goat Cheese and Herb Omelette
Elevate your breakfast or brunch with a fluffy goat cheese and herb omelette that's both nutritious and delicious. Whisk together eggs with a splash of milk and season with salt, pepper, and your favourite fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill. Pour the egg mixture into a hot skillet and cook until the edges start to set.
Crumble goat cheese over one half of the omelette and fold the other half over to encase the filling. Cook until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through. Serve with a side of fresh fruit or toast for a satisfying morning meal.
Goat Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
You can prepare a delicious and tender chicken breast stuffed with creamy goat cheese and sautéed spinach. To make this dish, butterfly boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs. Sauté fresh spinach in olive oil until wilted, then combine with crumbled goat cheese.
Spread the goat cheese and spinach mixture onto one half of each chicken breast, then fold the other half over to enclose the filling. Secure with toothpicks if needed, then bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
Use it as a pizza topping
Combine sweet and savoury flavours in a gourmet pizza featuring goat cheese and fresh figs. Start with a pre-made pizza dough or your favourite homemade recipe, then spread a thin layer of creamy goat cheese over the crust. Top with sliced fresh figs, caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of crumbled bacon or prosciutto for added depth of flavour. Bake the pizza until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are bubbly and caramelized. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of fresh arugula for a pop of colour and peppery freshness. This unique and delicious pizza is sure to become a new favourite.
