Layered Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Delight
This stunning Layered Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Delight combines the creamy richness of goat cheese and cream cheese with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and vibrant pesto. It's a visually striking appetizer that not only looks impressive on any table but also bursts with flavors that will leave your guests wanting more. Best of all, it's easily prepared ahead of time—just chill it and serve! Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a festive spread, this torta is sure to be a standout dish.
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
goat cheese
4 ounces (at room temperature)
cream cheese
8 ounces (at room temperature)
kosher salt
to taste (none)
fresh ground black pepper
to taste (none)
tomato paste
3 tablespoons (none)
sun-dried tomatoes
3/4 cup (drained and finely chopped)
balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon (none)
pesto sauce
2/3 cup (preferably thicker for better layering)
fresh basil leaves or parsley sprig
for garnishing (none)
toasted baguette slices
for serving (none)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese and cream cheese, and mix until smooth. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2
In another bowl, fold the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and balsamic vinegar into the goat-cream cheese mixture. Adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper as needed.
3
Prepare a 2-cup ramekin or small bowl by lining it with plastic wrap, allowing the wrap to hang over the edges. Lightly spray the plastic wrap with vegetable oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4
Spread half of the goat-cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared ramekin. Layer with a generous coating of pesto, followed by the remaining cheese-tomato mixture. Finally, top with the remaining goat-cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly to seal in the layers.
5
Fold the plastic wrap over the top of the final cheese layer, ensuring it is well covered. Refrigerate the torta for at least 1.5 hours, or up to 2 days in advance to deepen flavors.
6
To serve, gently invert the torta onto a serving platter, removing and discarding the plastic wrap. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley sprigs, and serve with slices of toasted baguette for an elegant presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Layered Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Delight?
It is a visually striking appetizer that layers goat and cream cheese with sun-dried tomatoes and pesto for a rich, flavorful spread.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all the ingredients listed in this recipe are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?
Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated.
How long does the cheese torta need to chill?
It should be refrigerated for at least 1.5 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the structure to firm up.
What specific cheeses are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 4 ounces of goat cheese and 8 ounces of cream cheese.
Should the cheese be softened before mixing?
Yes, the goat cheese and cream cheese should be at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.
What size ramekin is recommended for this recipe?
A 2-cup ramekin or a similarly sized small bowl is ideal for molding the torta.
How do I ensure the torta releases easily from the mold?
Line the mold with plastic wrap, leaving an overhang, and lightly spray the wrap with vegetable oil cooking spray.
What ingredients make up the tomato layer?
The tomato layer includes a portion of the cheese mixture mixed with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and balsamic vinegar.
Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought pesto is fine, though a thicker variety is recommended for better layering results.
How is the torta served?
Invert the chilled torta onto a serving platter, remove the plastic wrap, and serve with toasted baguette slices.
What are the recommended garnishes?
Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves or sprigs of parsley for an elegant presentation.
Is there a specific way to layer the ingredients?
Start with half the cheese mixture, then a layer of pesto, followed by the tomato-cheese mixture, and finally the remaining cheese mixture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The torta itself is gluten-free; simply serve it with gluten-free crackers instead of toasted baguette slices.
What does the balsamic vinegar contribute to the flavor?
It provides a subtle acidity that cuts through the richness of the cream and goat cheeses.
Why is tomato paste included in the recipe?
Tomato paste adds deep color and concentrated flavor while helping to thicken the sun-dried tomato cheese layer.
Can the cheese torta be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended as it can cause the dairy to become crumbly or watery upon thawing.
How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 to 5 days.
What are alternative options for serving?
Aside from baguettes, you can use pita chips, crostini, or various types of gourmet crackers.
Can I substitute another cheese for goat cheese?
You can use additional cream cheese or a mild feta, though the unique tangy flavor of the goat cheese is a signature of this dish.
Is the appetizer served warm or cold?
This is a chilled appetizer meant to be served cold directly from the refrigerator.
Can I adjust the seasoning in this recipe?
Yes, you should season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your own taste preferences.
How do I prevent the pesto from bleeding into the cheese?
Using a thicker pesto and ensuring the cheese layers are spread evenly will help keep the layers distinct.
Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger bowl or two separate 2-cup ramekins.
How long can the torta stay out on a serving table?
As it is a dairy-based dish, it should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours for safety.
What kind of texture does the finished torta have?
It has a smooth, creamy texture with slight chunks of sun-dried tomatoes for contrast.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Red wine vinegar or white balsamic can be used, but traditional balsamic offers the best flavor balance.
Do the sun-dried tomatoes need special preparation?
Yes, they should be well-drained of oil and finely chopped before being mixed into the cheese.
Is the vegetable oil spray necessary?
It is highly recommended as it ensures the plastic wrap peels away cleanly without disturbing the smooth surface of the cheese.