Description
This Garlic Herb Cheese Log combines creamy chèvre goat cheese and softened cream cheese with fresh herbs, garlic, and pecans for a flavorful appetizer. Rolled into a log and coated with a vibrant herb mixture, it’s perfect for serving at parties or as a savory snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (10 oz) log chèvre goat cheese
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Herb Coating
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh oregano, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
Additional
- Olive oil, as needed for drizzling
Instructions
- Mix Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the chèvre goat cheese, softened cream cheese, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring an even texture.
- Form Cheese Log: Using your hands, roll the smooth cheese mixture into a log shape. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for 20 minutes until slightly firm but not frozen solid to make it easier to coat.
- Prepare Herb Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the finely chopped chives, parsley, basil, oregano, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and finely chopped pecans until evenly combined.
- Coat Cheese Log: Lay a piece of parchment paper on the counter and spread the herb and pecan mixture out into a square shape that matches the length of the cheese log. Place the partially frozen cheese log at the edge of the herb mixture and roll it carefully so the coating sticks evenly, pressing gently to adhere the herbs and nuts to the surface.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the coated cheese log until ready to serve. Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil to add richness and enhance the flavor. Slice and enjoy as a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- Freezing the cheese log slightly makes it easier to roll and coat without breaking apart.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried herbs if fresh are unavailable, but reduce quantities by half for dried.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and increase herbs or substitute with finely chopped seeds.
- This cheese log pairs well with crackers, fresh bread, or vegetable crudités.
- Store leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 2 oz)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
