Zesty Salsa Baked Goat Cheese with Toasted Nuts

Salsa Baked Goat Cheese Recipe

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this irresistible Salsa Baked Goat Cheese, a delightful spread or dip that’s perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. This dish marries the creamy richness of goat cheese with the zesty kick of salsa and the crunch of toasted nuts, making it a truly delectable treat. Ideal for pairing with a chilled beer or a refreshing margarita, this recipe promises to impress your guests with its simplicity and exquisite flavor.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup walnuts
• 1 cup pecans
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1 cup salsa (for a smoother texture, consider blending if chunky)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cheese and nuts are perfectly roasted and baked.

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2. Toast the Nuts
   Spread the walnuts and pecans evenly on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and toast the nuts for about 7-8 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they should become lightly browned and release a wonderfully fragrant aroma. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
   In a medium-sized bowl, combine the toasted walnuts and pecans. Add the cream cheese to the bowl and mix thoroughly until the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the cheese. This mixture should be smooth and well-combined, ensuring each bite is rich and nutty.

4. Form the Cheese Disk
   Scoop the cheese mixture into a baking dish, such as a decorative 9-inch pie plate. Shape the mixture into a 5-inch disk, spreading it evenly in the dish. This will create a perfect base for the salsa and add an appealing presentation to your dish.

5. Add the Salsa
   Spoon the salsa generously over and around the cheese disk. If the salsa is particularly chunky, consider straining it or chopping it in a food processor to prevent large pieces from falling off the chips when served.

6. Bake the Dish
   Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is heated through and the salsa is bubbly. The baking process will meld the flavors beautifully, creating a deliciously warm and inviting dip.

7. Garnish and Serve
   Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the fresh cilantro over the top. This adds a burst of color and a fresh, herby flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and the tanginess of the salsa.

8. Serving Suggestions
   Serve this Salsa Baked Goat Cheese as a dip with tortilla chips or other crisps. For an extra touch, you might heat the chips slightly to enhance their crunch and flavor. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and works wonderfully for both casual snacks and festive occasions.

Enjoy this easy and delectable recipe that brings together creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, and tangy salsa for a perfect blend of textures and flavors! 🌟🧀🎉