Lemon and Thyme Goat Cheese Spread

I absolutely love fresh, creamy goat cheese. I usually buy some every time I go to the farmers' market either from Celebrity Dairy or from Elodie Farms, but just about any fresh goat cheese tastes wonderful. I'll often choose one of the seasoned logs, about 4 to 5 oz of goat cheese rolled in a variety of different herbs and spices such as fresh dill, ground cumin or cracked pepper. These are all delicious served just as they are with some crackers or sliced bread. But if you buy plain goat cheese and want to add something extra yourself, this lemon and thyme spread makes for a very simple and delicious appetizer. You can easily make it ahead of time and have it ready when guests arrive, which gives you one less thing to think about while entertaining. Or just make it to snack on while watching tv or the world cup as a great alternative to the usual crackers and cheese. Thyme has a natural lemony scent and therefore goes perfectly with lemon zest and juice. Serve the spread with toasted baguette or pita slices, or a variety of slice veggies.

Lemon and Thyme Goat Cheese Spread

• 5 oz fresh goat cheese, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• black pepper
• 1-1.5 tablespoons olive oil

In a small bowl, mix together the thyme, lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with black pepper.
Pour half of the mixture into another bowl with the goat cheese.
Mix thoroughly to incorporate the herbs throughout the cheese.
Form the goat cheese into a ball or disc, and place it in whatever you will be serving it in.
Combine the remaining lemon and thyme mixture with the olive oil.
This can all be done ahead of time and reserved.
Pour the olive oil mixture over the goat cheese right before service.

For a printable recipe click here