Goat Cheese Spread
A creamy goat cheese spread infused with pesto and salsa, perfect for appetizers or snacks. Smooth, flavorful, and easy to prepare for gatherings or casual occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat a 9-inch spring-form pan with cooking spray; set aside.
- Combine goat cheese and cream cheeses; beat at medium-high speed of an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add eggs, egg yolk, and pesto sauce.
- Beat until well blended.
- Pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely on a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure all cheeses are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute half of the goat cheese with ricotta. You can also mix in herbs like chives or thyme for added depth. For a vegan option, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and flax eggs instead of eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this goat cheese spread with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with chunky salsa for a zesty contrast. Consider adding a side of Oven Pancake Popover for a complete brunch experience, or enjoy it alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Goat Cheese Spread contains roughly 470 calories, with 22g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this goat cheese spread ahead of time?
Yes, this spread can be made a day in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before serving, or reheat gently as suggested for optimal texture.
What can I use if I don't have pesto?
If you don't have pesto, you can create a similar flavor by blending fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. Alternatively, use store-bought sun-dried tomato spread for a different yet delicious flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this goat cheese spread is suitable for vegetarians. It contains no meat products. For a vegan version, substitute the cream cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use flax eggs to maintain the binding quality.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).