💜🧀🌿 Magenta Jewel Goat Cheese Log
Serves: 6–8 (as an appetizer)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30–60 minutes
⭐ Ingredients
Goat Cheese Log
- 8 oz plain goat cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp lemon zest (optional but brightens flavor)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Beet Swirl
- 2–3 tbsp roasted beet purée
- (From roasted beets, mashed or blended smooth)
- ½–1 tsp honey (to balance earthiness)
- Pinch of salt
Coating
- ½ cup crushed pistachios
- Optional extras: chopped mint, chopped dill, crushed freeze-dried raspberries
🧑🍳 FULL RECIPE
1. Make the Beet Swirl
- In a small bowl, stir together:
- roasted beet purée
- honey
- pinch of salt
- Mix until smooth and vibrant.
- Set aside — this will create the magenta swirl.
2. Prepare the Goat Cheese Base
- In a mixing bowl, add:
- softened goat cheese
- olive oil
- chopped parsley
- lemon zest (if using)
- salt & pepper
- Mix until creamy and evenly blended.
3. Swirl in the Magenta Beet
- Spread the goat cheese mixture on a piece of parchment paper into a rough rectangle.
- Spoon small dollops of the beet mixture across the surface.
- Use a knife or spoon to gently drag through, creating swirls—don’t overmix or it will turn pink.
- Use the parchment to roll the cheese into a log, keeping the swirls intact.
- Twist the ends of the parchment to tighten the shape.
4. Chill
Refrigerate 30–60 minutes until firm enough to handle.
5. Coat with Pistachios
- Spread crushed pistachios on a plate.
- Unwrap the cheese log and roll it over the pistachios, pressing gently.
- Add herbs or freeze-dried raspberry crumbs for extra color if desired.
6. Serve
Place on a serving board and pair with:
- Crackers
- Crostini
- Sliced baguette
- Honey drizzle
- Fresh herbs
- Pomegranate seeds (extra festive!)
⭐ Tips & Variations
- Extra magenta: Add more beet purée inside or lightly brush the exterior for a watercolor effect.
- Sweeter finish: Drizzle with hot honey.
- Herb-forward: Add dill, chives, or thyme.
- Nuttier: Swap pistachios for walnuts or pecans.
- Make ahead: Prepare 2 days in advance — just coat with nuts right before serving.