Name: Marinated Goat Cheese in Herb and Spiced Olive Oil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 48 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 large log fresh goat cheese (10 ounces; 270g); 2 cups (475ml) extra-virgin olive oil, or as needed; 1 teaspoon red chile flakes; 1 teaspoon whole fennel seeds; 2 teaspoons pink peppercorns (optional); Four 2-inch strips lemon zest (peeled with a vegetable peeler with as little white pith as possible); 4 bay leaves; 6 sprigs fresh thyme; 4 medium garlic cloves, cut in half lengthwise

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This marinated goat cheese recipe transforms a simple fresh cheese into a flavorful and aromatic treat. Infused with herbs, spices, and olive oil, it makes a perfect addition to salads, appetizers, or cheese boards.

A white plate with blue floral edges holds three small round white cheese balls, each topped with different spices: one with dried herbs, one with red pepper flakes, and one with pink peppercorns. The cheese balls sit in a shallow pool of golden olive oil that shines in the light. There are two small green herb sprigs placed on and near the cheese, along with a single bay leaf on the left side of the plate. A silver spoon rests on the plate under the cheese balls. The plate is placed on a white marbled texture, with scattered spices and herbs visible around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large log fresh goat cheese (10 ounces; 270g)
2 cups (475ml) extra-virgin olive oil, or as needed

1 teaspoon red chile flakes
1 teaspoon whole fennel seeds

2 teaspoons pink peppercorns (optional)
Four 2-inch strips lemon zest (peeled with a vegetable peeler, with as little white pith as possible)

4 bay leaves
6 sprigs fresh thyme
4 medium garlic cloves, cut in half lengthwise

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the goat cheese log into 8 equal pieces. If desired, roll each piece into a ball for a uniform shape.
Step 2: Pour olive oil into clean wide-necked jars until they are halfway full. Evenly divide the red chile flakes, fennel seeds, and pink peppercorns between the jars.
Step 3: Add the goat cheese pieces one at a time to the jars, adding a little olive oil between each piece to ensure they are fully immersed.

Step 4: Add the lemon zest strips, bay leaves, thyme sprigs, and garlic halves to the jars. Pour in enough olive oil to completely cover the cheese.
Step 5: Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate for at least a few hours. For the best flavor, let the cheese marinate for 2 days before serving.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the amount of chile flakes or omit them entirely.

Swap fresh thyme for rosemary or oregano for a different herbal aroma.
Use a small jar to marinate single servings, or a larger jar for a batch to share.
Serve the marinated cheese with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Storage

Keep the marinated goat cheese refrigerated in sealed jars. It will stay fresh for up to one week. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for about 30 minutes to enhance flavor. Discard the cheese if you notice any off smells or mold.

How to Serve

Three white cheese balls sit on a white plate with a blue floral pattern around the edges. The cheese balls are covered in small seeds and red peppercorns, with two cheese balls sliced in half showing their soft, smooth texture inside. They rest in a pool of yellow olive oil. A silver knife lies on the plate near the bottom, partially covered by the oil. A green bay leaf and fresh green thyme sprigs are placed around the cheese balls and on the white marbled textured surface beneath the plate. Scattered seeds and red peppercorns add detail to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While goat cheese works best for its texture and flavor, you can experiment with fresh cheeses like feta or mozzarella, but the marinating times and flavors may vary.

Do I need to sterilize the jars before marinating?

It’s best to use clean jars washed with hot, soapy water. Sterilizing jars can help extend shelf life, but since the cheese is stored in oil and refrigerated, simple cleanliness is usually sufficient.