Welcome to our Cheese of the Month spotlight for July: Goat Cheese! Did you know goats only produce milk from March to July? This makes spring, summer, and early fall the prime times to savor fresh, creamy goat cheese. Keep reading to learn more about this delectable cheese and explore creative, delicious ways to incorporate it into your diet. Dive in and let your taste buds embark on a delightful journey!
What is Goat Cheese?
Goat cheese, or chèvre, is a unique and delightful cheese made from goat's milk. It offers a tangy and earthy flavor that ranges from mild to intense. What sets it apart is its easier digestibility compared to cow's milk cheese, thanks to its lower lactose content and different protein structure. It's a treasure trove of essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and healthy fats. (Fun fact: Goats were among the first animals domesticated for food!)
Types of Goat Cheese
Get ready to explore a world of goat cheese! There's a wide range of types available, from soft and fresh to hard and aged varieties, each with its own unique textures and flavors. Let's dive into some of the popular types of goat cheese:
Recipe Ideas with Goat Cheese
Get ready to unleash your culinary creativity with goat cheese! This versatile cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches, baked dishes, and even desserts. It adds a rich, creamy element to every recipe. Here are some ideas to spark your imagination:
- Crumbled goat cheese enhances salads with a creamy touch. It pairs wonderfully with mixed greens, nuts, and a simple vinaigrette.
- Hollow out tomatoes and stuff them with a mixture of goat cheese, fresh herbs, and breadcrumbs. Roast until golden and enjoy a flavorful appetizer or side dish.
- Elevate your burgers by incorporating goat cheese into the patties or using it as a rich, tangy topping. It works exceptionally well with lamb burgers for a Mediterranean twist.
- For a simple and delightful dessert, spread goat cheese on toasted bread and top with sliced strawberries and a drizzle of honey.
- Substitute traditional tzatziki with a creamy goat cheese spread in your homemade gyros. The goat cheese adds a unique flavor that complements the spiced meat and fresh vegetables.
- Melt goat cheese into hot pasta for a creamy, tangy sauce. Mix with roasted vegetables, garlic, and fresh herbs for a comforting meal.
- Include goat cheese as a key component on your charcuterie board. Pair it with an assortment of meats, fruits, nuts, and crackers for a sophisticated and crowd-pleasing snack.
At Sara's Boxes & Boards, we love using Baetji Farms goat cheese, a local farm known for its high-quality, artisanal goat cheese. I even had the opportunity to tour their factory! We switch up our goat cheese selections depending on the season. For a touch of sweetness, we also use blueberry vanilla goat cheese from Trader Joe's.
Ready to indulge?
Treat yourself to one of our expertly crafted charcuterie boxes or boards featuring the finest goat cheese. Place your order today and experience the delicious versatility of goat cheese this July!
