Simple Strawberry Basil Goat Cheese

Simple strawberry basil goat cheese: A refreshing appetizer of tangy goat cheese, sweet summer strawberries and fresh basil. This recipe is sure to be a hit during the warm weather months.

Can we just talk about my LOVE for goat cheese? It is absolutely one of my favorite cheeses, and I literally add it to almost everything. Goat cheese has a slightly tangy flavor but overall very creamy and mild. It’s the perfect addition to a pasta dish, on top of a burger or pizza, or in this instance, the main ingredient in a sweet appetizer.

I love creating charcuterie boards all year long and am here to say I have cracked the code on the steps to a perfect charcuterie. This slightly sweetened goat cheese is the perfect accompaniment to a charcuterie but it also works well as a stand alone appetizer for wine time.

I hate to even call this a recipe because it is truly so simple and customizable but it’s a huge favorite of mine!

So, let’s get into it!

How to make this simple strawberry basil goat cheese

Gather your ingredients

Goat cheese: This is an obvious ingredient, I know. I like to use a 4 or 8 oz goat cheese log when serving this appetizer. For today’s recipe we are using just 4 oz.

Strawberries: The strawberries are perfectly sweet paring to the tangy goat cheese. If you’re making this recipe in the summertime, the strawberries will be at their peak and ready to use.

Basil: This ingredient is key! It’s important to use fresh basil leaves. The pre chopped tube you can buy at the supermarket will not have the same flavor as fresh.

Balsamic glaze: I love this ingredient as well! It is super versatile and adds a slightly vinegary flavor to the recipe. You can buy balsamic glaze in almost in store near the oil and vinegars.

Thinking: what the heck is balsamic glaze? It is the reduction of balsamic vinegar that has been reduced to a syrup consistency. Balsamic glaze has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor- perfect on so many things!

Begin by chopping the strawberries into bite size pieces and placing them in a small bowl. Then, thinly slice some fresh basil leaves and toss the two together. Set this bowl aside for about 20 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Meanwhile, I like to set the goat cheese log out on the counter for about 15-20 minutes so it’s easier to spread.

After the berries and basil have been sitting, give it a good toss and spoon the mixture over the softened goat cheese log.

Right before serving drizzle over the balsamic vinegar. You can also drizzle the balsamic over the goat cheese log first and then add the strawberries if you want a cleaner presentation.

Enjoy!

How best to serve?

I like to serve mine on a charcuterie board along side wheat crackers. Small slices of toasted crostini would also be a great vessel for this recipe.

Can I use different fruits?

Absolutely! I love the combination of strawberry and basil but blackberries and basil or fresh chopped peaches and basil would be wonderful as well.

Do I have to use balsamic glaze?

You can leave off the balsamic if you can’t find it, however, I do think it adds a much needed depth of flavor to the recipe. Another variation would be using a drizzle of honey and adding finely chopped pistachios. Delicious!

Looking for more?

Goat Cheese Guacamole

Cold Whipped Ricotta with Garlic and Feta

Before you go, if you make this recipe rate and/or comment down below. I’d love to hear what you think!