Description
Mediterranean beet and goat cheese log brings rustic charm to elegant appetizers. Delicate flavors dance between earthy roasted beets and creamy tangy cheese, inviting you to savor each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) goat cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) roasted beets, peeled and finely grated
Seasonings and Flavoring:
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) honey
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Garnish and Roasting:
- 1/4 cup (15 grams) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) pistachios, chopped
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil (for roasting the beets)
Instructions
- Prepare the beets by thoroughly washing and lightly massaging with olive oil. Encase each beet individually in aluminum foil and roast in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for approximately 45-60 minutes until they reach a tender, easily pierced consistency.
- Allow the roasted beets to cool completely, then carefully remove the skin using gentle peeling motions. Finely grate the beets using a sharp grater, creating delicate, uniform shreds.
- In a clean mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese with the grated roasted beets, incorporating honey, freshly ground black pepper, and a subtle hint of garlic powder. Blend the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture achieves a smooth, uniform texture.
- Spread a sheet of plastic wrap on a clean, flat surface. Transfer the beet and goat cheese mixture onto the wrap, carefully molding it into an elegant, cylindrical log shape. Wrap the log tightly, ensuring a secure seal, and refrigerate for a minimum of one hour to firm up the texture.
- Create a textural coating by finely chopping fresh parsley and pistachios in a separate small bowl. Remove the chilled cheese log from the refrigerator and gently roll it in the herb and nut mixture, applying light pressure to ensure an even, comprehensive coating.
- When ready to serve, slice the log into delicate rounds. Accompany with an assortment of crisp crackers, fresh vegetable crudités, or toasted crostini for an elegant appetizer presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality beets for the most vibrant color and sweetest flavor.
- Select firm, unblemished beets with bright green tops for maximum freshness.
- Wear disposable gloves when handling beets to prevent staining hands and surfaces.
- Roast beets in advance and refrigerate to save time during preparation.
- Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for alternative coating textures.
- For a vegan version, substitute goat cheese with cashew-based soft cheese.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or chives to enhance the cheese mixture’s complexity.
- Store wrapped cheese log in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg