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Who doesn’t like a little nibble during cocktail hour or a small plate of  hors d’oeuvres to snack on before a dinner party?  Starters that are quick and easy to prepare can set the mood for a party that’s guaranteed to be stress free.  With some quality ingredients, beautiful colors and flavors combined with prepping and planning, you can whip up magnificent small plates with ease.

At a recent party I made a batch of baked goat cheese appetizers that were prepped ahead and then popped in the oven right before the guests arrived.  This recipe is considered a technique more than an actual recipe and was inspired by the brilliant David Lebovitz.  

Baked Goat Cheese Appetizer

Ingredients:

• 11 ounce log of goat cheese
• 1/2 cup plain toasted bread crumbs mixed with 1 tsp fresh herbs, (I used basil and thyme), and a pinch of salt and pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 350F
2. Cut goat cheese into 1/2″ slices and shape into the size of a quarter
3. Brush with olive oil
4. Dredge goat cheese coins in seasoned bread crumbs and place on a non-stick cookie sheet
5. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese starts to get soft

Serve on a plate garnished with herbs and/or edible flowers.  Serve with your favorite bread, prepared tapenade or basil pesto, and olives.  Enjoy!