DELI: (Baked) Goat Cheese with Cranberry Relish

Irresistible Warm Goat Cheese with Rosemary-Almond Crust and Cranberry-Orange Relish

Imagine a dish that marries warmth and tang with the perfect crunch. Welcome to our delightful Warm Goat Cheese with Rosemary-Almond Crust, serenely nestled amidst a pool of zesty Cranberry-Orange Relish. This sophisticated yet simple dish is a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, offering a refreshing medley of flavors that are both harmonious and distinctively festive.

The secret to this heavenly dish lies in the thoughtful selection and preparation of ingredients. Start with a creamy goat cheese log; its tangy profile is a perfect canvas for the nutty, fragrant rosemary-almond coating. Opt for Marcona almonds if available, as their buttery texture and unique sweetness elevate the flavor, but regular almonds are a fine substitute. Fresh rosemary adds a burst of herbal aroma, though dried works equally well. The marriage of rosemary and almonds not only serves as an aesthetic crust but also introduces a delightful crunchy texture.

Ahead of time, you'll want to chop your almonds and rosemary to ensure they adhere perfectly to the cheese, providing that irresistible crust. Preheating the oven is critical to achieve the right softness in the cheese, melding beautifully with the accompanying tart and vibrant cran-orange relish—a touch of balsamic glaze adds depth with its sweet acidity.

Serve this creation with slices of crisp French baguette or crunchy pita chips, both of which complement and enhance the rich flavors of the cheese and relish. With each bite, your taste buds will dance to the diverse yet balanced symphony of flavors.

Ingredients

• ⅓ cup roasted, salted Marcona (or regular) almonds, finely chopped – Provides a nutty texture and flavor, enhancing the crust.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried) – Imparts earthy aroma and flavor.
• 1 log Deli goat cheese (8-10 oz) – The creamy, tangy main ingredient that binds the dish.
• 1 (8-oz) container Deli cranberry-orange relish – Offers a fruity, tart contrast to the cheese.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze – Adds sweet-acidic complexity to the relish.
• 1 Bakery french bread, thinly sliced (or plain pita chips) – Serves as the perfect vehicle to enjoy the cheese and relish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Warm up your oven to 350°F (or 400°F if using the alternate method). This step ensures even heating and perfect melting of the cheese.
2. Prepare the Almond Mixture: On a chopping board, finely chop the almonds and rosemary. Combine them and set aside; reserve a tablespoon for topping after baking.
3. Coat the Cheese: Roll the goat cheese log in the almond and rosemary mixture, making sure it is thoroughly coated for a delicious crunch.
4. Bake the Cheese: Place the coated cheese log in a small baking dish or pie plate. Blend the cranberry-orange relish with balsamic glaze, then pour this mixture around the cheese. Sprinkle the reserved almond mixture on top.
5. Bake to Perfection: Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is soft and heated through. If using the alternate method, spread cheese on bread slices, top with relish, sprinkle with nuts, and bake for 5–6 minutes.
6. Serve: Accompany the warm cheese with crisp slices of baguette or pita chips for scooping and savoring every last bit.

Tips for Troubleshooting

• Too Thick Crust: Crush the almond mixture finer or reduce the amount slightly.
• Cheese Too Hard: Extend the baking time or raise the temperature slightly without exceeding 375°F.
• Relish Too Runny: Stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch or allow it to cool down and thicken naturally.
• Overbrowned Edges: Cover sides with foil loosely during the last baking minutes to prevent further browning.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

Bring your serving experience to a new level with these complementary ideas:

• Side Dishes: A refreshing arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery contrast and zesty freshness, balancing the recipe’s richness.
• Drinks: Pair with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio to complement the acidity and flavors of the goat cheese and relish.
• Desserts or Garnishes: A serving of lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate beautifully, while fresh mint leaves sprinkled over the dish add a dash of color and freshness.

How to Store Properly

• Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; they will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While best when freshly made, you can freeze the baked cheese log. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, a creamy Brie or Camembert can be used to provide a similar texture and taste.
2. Is a gluten-free option available? Substitute with gluten-free bread or corn tortilla chips for a gluten-free version.
3. What if I don't have fresh rosemary? Dried rosemary works fine but use it sparingly as it has a more potent flavor.
4. Can I prepare the dish in advance? While best fresh, you can prep the goat cheese and relish separately a day ahead and then bake when ready to serve.