Imagine a creamy, luxurious spread that transforms ordinary appetizers into gourmet delights with just one bite. This Roasted Garlic Goat Cheese Spread is not just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that will elevate your entertaining game and tantalize your taste buds. Combining the rich, mellow sweetness of slow-roasted garlic with the tangy smoothness of goat cheese, this spread promises to be the star of any gathering, turning simple crackers and bread into an irresistible sensation that will have your guests begging for more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic
- 8 oz goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove any loose papery outer layers from the garlic head, keeping the whole head intact.
- Using a sharp knife, cut off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the exposed garlic cloves, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Wrap the garlic head completely in aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet that will help steam and roast the garlic evenly.
- Place the foil-wrapped garlic in the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown. The garlic should be tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the garlic from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes until it's comfortable to handle. Unwrap the foil carefully.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skin directly into a mixing bowl. The cloves should be soft and have a sweet, caramelized flavor.
- Add the goat cheese to the bowl with the roasted garlic. Using a fork or whisk, mix thoroughly until the garlic and cheese are well combined and smooth.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil into the mixture and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue mixing until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the spread to a serving dish. For best flavor, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable crudités. The spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose fresh, high-quality garlic and goat cheese for the best flavor profile.
- Don't rush the roasting process—slow roasting allows the garlic to caramelize and develop a deep, sweet flavor.
- Use a heavy-duty aluminum foil when wrapping the garlic to ensure even roasting.
- Let the spread sit at room temperature before serving to enhance its creamy texture and flavor complexity.
- For a gourmet twist, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the spread.
- If the spread is too thick, you can thin it with a little extra olive oil or a splash of cream.
- Experiment with different serving accompaniments like toasted baguette slices, grilled vegetables, or as a unique sandwich spread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 75mg
